We had such a good time in Denver that
we stayed longer than planned. On zero notice, Marty and I scored a
mountain bike ride and place to stay with Cynthia. One more call and we had another place to stay and a climbing partner. It's great to
hang out with old friends. It seems like yesterday they were living
in Baltimore. Eating out at the local joints and talking over
homebrew ipa was a highlight.
Centennial Cone was Cynthia's choice
for a bike ride. The terrain rolled on with short climbs and
descents on a bench cut slope side trail. The views on this ride are
classic front range beauty. We had a new rider too. That was the
perfect excuse for us to take breaks and breathe in the thin air. I
loved the downhills and occasional banked turn. I must work on my
switchbacks.
Clear Creek Canyon was the climbing
spot and Fred was my guide. I led up the easy stuff while Fred set
the 5.11 for me to try. I'm not used to real rock and my footwork is
appalling. I don't know whats going to stick so I don't trust any of
it. Guess I'll have to relearn the 'friction' thing. You couldn't ask
for a better day though. The rock was just right for my ability.
The skies were overcast but thunder kept it's distance all day. That
is a another thing I'm not used to. Back home thunder always means
your about to get wet. No so here.
We finished the day at Golden's second
largest brewery. It's like a big house party with everyone hanging
out on the front lawn. In true Colorado fashion, last call was at
6pm. The joke is that everyone is training for something so no one
stays out late. Yet this town has more microbreweries than anywhere
else on the planet. They drink great beers, but not after nine.
(I need to pictures to this one)