Da's days out: Turkey Flats

So on another day I (Da) went about 40 min up the road past Lunch Loops to a trail called Turkey Flats which was reputed to have great fall aspens. I really love aspens and the prospect of a good Fall ride within an hour of our house was too much to resist. Since I had never been on the trail before I chose not to bring our beloved out-of-control dog. Also the minor problems of bears and hunting season came to mind. Somehow I suspect that Utah's antler shaped running harness would do hom no favors out here.

From the parking area, I could tell that this was the right time of year to ride this.


The total loop is about 9.5 miles, and honestly if it weren't for the aspen, it wouldn't be a great ride. the trail surface was often loose, soft sand with many sections too steep to ride. But there was a bunch of this as well...


About halfway into the ride, I came out onto a forest road of packed damp sand. Since one of my truly geeky hobbies is identifying bike tracks by tire brand, I was looking down and saw this:

While I didn't recognize the brand, I was glad Utah was safe in his crate at home. I don't know how a black bear/Utah interaction would go, but I don't think any good could come of it. I made several stops to soak in the beautiful Fall day and take some artsy photos.


The aspen were in full change and had just started dropping leaves creating some very cool yellow ornaments for the outdoor xmas trees.


Heres the trail winding between some aspen and pines. The temp in GJ that day was about 85, but this ride started at about 8200 feet so it was actually kind of chilly. The air was clear in that amazing sort of way that happens in Autumn. Everything seems to be extra clear and crisp.


The aspen covered trail was both beautiful and deceptive. I almost plowed straight into this pond/puddle without ever seeing it. Heather's question was "How deep was it?" I am only glad I didn't unintentionally find out.



We had hoped to take the Tandem up there that weekend, but some cold rain got in the way. If was cold and wet in GJ, it would have been really cold there. Overall, it was a beautiful experience on a moderate ride. The best part was that I was home by noon!