Today we took advantage of the predicted 70-degree weather and headed to Estes Park on our bikes. That 70-degrees was predicted for the front range; but nonetheless, it was the first glimpse of 70 since...well...I can't remember when.
The weather last week was also reasonably warm for several days, with a couple of days in the high 50s. The warm week made a trip to Estes via Glen Haven possible. We haven't ridden via Glen Haven since November of 2007.
Steve Douglas, Scott Ellis and Dave McClure can be seen next to the "truck on a triangle" sign, looking back east.
Ah, but looking west is another story. This, the photo below, is my favorite view in the world - yes, the world. Longs Peak (on the right) and Meeker are the two tallest peaks in the photo. Longs is one of the legendary 14ers in the state.
Happy riders are seen in the second photo.
Our traditional monthly ride goes to Estes and makes a stop at the Notchtop Café. Just on the hill to the north and west of the Café is the Stanley Hotel. The hotel has a deep history and was built by Stanley of Stanley Steamer fame. On the national register of historic places, the hotel was made famous by Stephen King visit. On a stay at the hotel King was inspired to write The Shining.
No old hotel that looks like this one is complete without resident ghosts and the hotel is said to house several ghosts.
After having a snack at the Notchtop, we headed back down to Loveland and even enjoyed some tailwinds, a rare treat.
Tomorrow...snow...
Hi Gale,
I've done the Estes loop and I agree it's a great ride. Did you make it to the top of the switch backs without dismounting?
John