Chilcotin Cherry Part 2

Date Aug 23, 2011

DAY 2

We woke up around 8 am and the legs and body felt pretty good. I was quite surprised; it must have been Liz’s pasta. We had breakfast and it was unspoken that we were riding again. Unfortunately, Liz didn’t partake in the day’s journey but I knew she could have done it – and I think she regretted not coming.

Filling up the packs with fresh water. This is above Taylor Cabin towards Camel Pass.

I learned something on day one and I packed a lighter load. There was plenty of flowing water along the way so I started with about half of litre of water and drank plenty of gatorade beforehand. We figured the route would be 3 to 4 hours, an easy day. I brought less food and clothing than yesterday figuring I would be fine.

Mark pushes to the top of Camel Pass.

On day one I had a slight headache all day and wasn’t feeling 100 percent. I’m not sure if it was the elevation, gin from the night before or no coffee in the am but day two I felt really good. The legs were a little tired but not too bad. Our destination was Taylor Creek –> Camel Pass –> RidgeArama –> Cinnabar for some sweet dh action.

Another perspective.

At Camel Pass we head up along RidgeArama. Day 1 we went down to High Trail.

Mark reaching the top. Another favourite photo.

After summiting, we rode down a couple of ridges and traverses against a harsh wind.

Love this shot !

Smiles for miles !

We headed down from the bluffs into this basin. Somewhere RidgeArama continues here. Lee, please help.

Fred loved going through the meadows… free ranging on the Slayer !

The scenery never ceased to amaze me.

We finally found the RidgeArama after traversing the valley with GPS and map in hand. There was some heavy blow down and super swampy sections. There were deep creek crossings and hike a bike sections. My legs were once again on fire and I had had enough of hiking my bike. I was wishing the Cinnabar Trail was close. After some more cursing we are on singletrack and we start to descend after a food/water break. I put my camera away for the DH which I now regret but man it was fun just to pin it again. Cinnabar is not as steep as Lick but just as fun. This trail spits you right into Tyax so that was an added bonus.

Here’s the tally for Day 2:

Total Ascent: 4,800 ft

Total Distance: 28 km

Highest Point: 7,400 ft