|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
The Dyke is one of those great rides that becomes
very special in the fall. The towering mantle of aspen are something
you won’t soon forget. But green or golden, the Dyke is
one great ride. The trail is usually in great shape, and
the last downhill is always one to remember.
As with a lot of rides around here, there are any number
of ways to ride The Dyke. You can ride this one from town
if you’re feeling fit.
If you’re short on time or just don’t want to mess with the
road, drive toward Kebler Pass to the junction with the Irwin
Lake Road. Park there and ride toward Irwin Lake Campground,
staying left at the split.
Ride past the lake and keep bearing left at any road intersection.
Wind around and climb steeply up to a sign for The Dyke Trailhead.
Turn left on this doubletrack and ride out to a small turnaround
and a sign for The Dyke Trail.
This first part of the singletrack is a ripper! Watch out
for a few surprise creek crossings and some technical sections.
Otherwise, enjoy the romp through the forest. The trail weaves
around the contours before climbing up and over The Dyke,
which is a very distinct rib of rock that you can’t help
but notice because you’re carrying your bike at this point.
Enjoy the aspen and the views through them.
The walk is short, but the climb continues for a little
while. It’s all ridable after the hike. Just keep your butt
on the nose of your saddle and think about how nice the top
of your stem looks.
The climb lets up here and there, but isn’t over until you
get to a nice little open area. You’ll be staring straight
up at the Upper Dyke and the Ruby/Owen range. On the left
at the top is a short trail to a great viewpoint and lunch
spot.
From here get ready for a great finish! Hang on for a terrific
downhill through what must be some of the most beautiful
aspens around. If you picked the right day, the light filtering
through a golden canopy fifty feet up will seem surreal as
you blow through it leaving a dust cloud of aspen leaves.
Make a sharp left where a sign points right to the wilderness
area. (If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable diversion
this time of year, stash your bike and take a hike into Dark
Canyon.) Continue with the ride and eventually come out in
a saddle and parking area at the Dark Canyon trailhead. Turn
left down the doubletrack and a quarter of a mile later,
you’ll hit Kebler Pass Road. Ride up and over to where your
vehicle is waiting for you at Horse Ranch Park. |
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
 |
Sign
up for
the newsletter to learn about upcoming specials, new
arrivals, and more! |
| |
|
|
|
