The Polynesians navigated from island to island in the Pacific. On the Archipelago Ride, you ride from open space park to open space park, tracing out some 40-50 miles through San Diego - from La Costa to Penasquitos. It's an amazing and thought-provoking idea. Amazing that we rode through and between La Costa, Elfin, Hodges, San Dieguito River Park, Black Mountain, and LPQ - almost entirely on dirt. Thought-provoking to imagine all the in-between spaces that could become an awesome trail network if they just had a little more singletrack and less fireroad, a little more advocacy, a little more access. Richard Julien is the man behind the Archipelago Ride. He's a tireless advocate for SD mountain biking, working to connect the archipelagos, build trails, and expand access. Many thanks for his efforts. Also, big thanks to
North of the Border Bikes for their support and for opening up the shop for the after party.
Pics after the jump, ride report to follow.
But first, how do you say "archipelago"?
Pre ride announcements. Supposedly 130 riders started out from La Costa!
Climbing between La Costa and Elfin.
Mike crossing the stream on the way into Elfin.
The Way Up Trail - pretty much sums it up
Regroup at Hernandez Hideaway. Jose rocked this monster with the internally geared hub.
From Hodges to San Dieguito River Park
Mike B finishing a long climb up to Lusardi Park.
Christian refuels at the top. In case the ride wasn't hard enough on it's own, he was riding a single speed.
Route-finding. We can't be lost if we're all together, can we?
Are we all here? Mike led the way from Black Mountain through PQ.
The final climb out of Lopez Canyon. He had the same smile at the start.
The bikes are tired.
It takes a strong person to ride single speed. Dan takes it to the next level with the pink bike.
At first I thought he had gotten me one. No, those were both for him :)
Rich and Kurt, perhaps discussing what it's going to take for Rich to put some pants on?
After party at NBB.
Nice post thank you Alfonso
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