Mountain Climbing

Today’s ride took us into Apache country, which will be continued tomorrow as we head across the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Many of the folks we are seeing on the streets or in the stores of the mining towns we pass through have the strong cheekbones and jet black hair that indicates a Native American heritage. The first historical marker I pass today is in front of Picket Post Mountain, a collection of rock pillars which looks remarkably like a section of fence. It was used as an outpost by the US Cavalry during the Indian wars.

At this moment however, it is not Apaches we fear, but Kings Crown Mountain, a peak of 5,500 feet which looms above the mining town of Superior. We know we have to go over, and also through, that mountain to get to our destination, Globe.

When you think of Arizona, do you think mountains? Hitherto I thought of Arizona as desert. Rocks and cacti, hills and plains, but mountains? Well after today, I’m adding Arizona to my list of mountain states. Carl and I spend the morning laboring up a steady 5 and 6 per cent grade under the relentlessly rising sun, hoping that each turn will bring us over a pass and down the other side. Indeed, we cross several passes, only to find that a brief flat stretch is followed by more climbing. Then, about mid morning, as we are climbing Kings Crown, we get to the Queen Creek Tunnel. Bill and Holly are waiting for us at the entrance.

Tunnels and bikes don’t mix well. Especially this one, a quarter mile long with minimal lighting, and a 7% uphill grade. Add mining trucks going through in both directions at 55 miles per hour and you have something to get your attention. With Bill and Holly behind us using their flashers and preventing trucks from inadvertently flattening us, we get through unscathed and resume climbing. By the end of the day we had a total ascent of over 3500 feet. We did have some downhill, 1800 feet or so. Thank goodness the hotel has a hot tub where we can soak our weary legs.

This will be a week of Indians, rocks, mountains and mines. While the cycling is strenuous, the stark beauty of the countryside is a great diversion. To mix metaphors, this wild country is a sight for sore legs.

Here is the link to see the route thus far, all 511 miles of it.

http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/ca/-san-diego/767128683952951553