Cedarglade Trails

Woke up a bit sore and tired. Looks like the storms will come in. Brian started talking about blueberry pancakes, sausage, eggs, etc. – so that is what we did. Three huge blueberry pancakes on a platter, a side of two eggs and two sausage pattys, large OJ, and a coffee. I was stuffed, but happy. We checked out a bike shop, cuz’ that’s just where we feel at home. Bought some full finger gloves so the brush wouldn’t cut my fingers and some energy bars. Also had them check out the Superfly shifting…somethings just not right with the big rings in back…they believe the derailleur may be slightly bent. X0 isn’t cheap, so bummed that it may not be a quick fix.

We headed off to the nearby Cedarglades trails in Hot Springs. These are supposed to be the best in the area. After checking them out, we have to agree. There is great flow, some technical areas, good jumps at times, creek crossings, switchbacks – just all around fun. At one point it was touch to follow the trail, but soon we had checked out all the trails and had to do most of the sections a second time. I loved the banked corners…you could roll right on the side and switch back – nice! Attempted to capture a video, but the camera wouldn’t stay upright once moving along. It rained for a brief period, which felt nice and cool. Otherwise perfect biking weather; maybe even a bit warm.

We headed back to Hot Springs and got a hotel room for $40. No Ritz Carlton, but it will do. The town has bath houses that use natural hot springs. The main drag looks historic with lots of shops and restaurants. There are fountains that steam from the natural hot water, and there are even water fillup stations where you can just fill up jugs with water. It is a bit warm, but natural and tastes good. In fact, we filled up with water prior to our ride – I’m not totally sold on drinking warm water during a ride though.

Had a nice spaghetti dinner, then strolled downtown for a bit. Most places closed, but checked out the brick promenade behind the bath houses. The backs of the bath houses look like they wouldn’t want you to see them…not sure why the promenade isn’t integrated more with the bath houses. Either way, it was good to move a bit after another day of riding. Okay, not a lot of riding, but we still feel it since we haven’t really ridden in a while. I am reminded how much upper body, grip, core, etc. is used when doing real mountain biking. I feel like I was holding my arms straight out all day…must be the cranking during climbs or absorbing downhill runs; either way, the arms are used!

Definitely time for bed. I will sleep good tonight!