Tales From The Top Tube: Riding Up City Creek

I could see the haze hanging over the valley as the work van pulled into Salt Lake. The sun hung in the sky, a glowing red orb in forest fire smoke filled valley. When I exited the van the static heat hit me. “How am I supposed to ride in this heat?” I thought to myself, “You MUST ride tonight. You need it.” I concluded. 

My phone buzzed with the arrival of a text message “When will you be ready?” Ali,my riding partner inquired. “Be there in 20”, I replied. As I rushed to my house my thoughts reflected on the days work and the multitude of tasks that awaited me at home. Bottling Kombucha, putting vegetables from my garden away, drying peaches, cleaning the apartment. My partner called to let me know she was running late as I kitted up. She and her husband arrived and we hopped on our bikes and began the climb up to City Creek Canyon.

The heat from the pavement hit us as we began our descent into City Creek from 11^th avenue. “Please, let there be some amount of shade in the canyon right now.” I thought to myself. We entered the canyon, talking about our day, laughing at our follies, and talking about the upcoming Cyclocross season. I didn’t want this ride to be a trip to the pain cave, but it is hard to look at City Creek as being any sort of pain cave when you are surrounded by such beautiful scenery.

 

We pushed are way up the canyon, saying hello to fellow cyclists as we rode. Almost as quickly as we started we made our way the six miles up the canyon and began our descent. On the way up noticed the golden fields of native grasses and green trees that seemed unaffected by the summers drought. The cool air temperature made riding up easy and comfortable. As we descended the air felt crisp against my skin, an unusual feeling for such a warm day. Making our way back into the city I realized how lucky we are to live in Salt Lake. Though many cities have incredible riding terrain, we are luck enough to have City Creek in down town. 

I often forget what a fun and scenic ride City Creek is. Shorter than most climbs, it is easy for beginner cyclists and offers much to look at when you need to catch your breath. While on another ride up the canyon on Saturday I rode into an unexpected array of fall colors. I would have sworn it was just a few weeks ago lush Kelly Green leaves filled the trees and now fiery reds and burst of bright orange and soft yellows filled their place.  My focus on my training ride was quickly consumed by my desire to take in the fall colors before they quickly fade away. 

I hope many of you will make your way up City Creek this week to experience the fall colors and escape from the city for a little while. By foot or by bike, it is an experience.

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