Cottonwood to Flagstaff

Once again we are told to put on our climbing hats! I am getting to not like that hat! It is a short day, partially due to the elevation / climbing but also due to the fact there is no place else we can get to. We climb false flats and rollers for the first 18 miles and then take a break for some pictures in Sedona and an ice cold mocha - yum! This is to prepare us for the real climb about to come after the 4 miles of mostly downhill. Unfortunately we are getting to dread the downhills as we know that means just that much more up.

We go past Slide Rock State Park which is a place where the rocks have been naturally polished to allow you to slide down in the water. At mile 31 we are encouraged to look up as you should be able to see the road "switchback" four times as you climb up to the SAG stop. The SAG stop is at Coconino National Forest which has a look out point to see the switchbacks from above.

I think I mentioned the three out of control wildfires burning in the area and all kind of fire ban notices. I was quite surprised as we came through the forest that we saw people with a fire going. At the SAG I asked the park ranger who said it was OK as long as it was in a campground in a pit. This makes no sense to me but they are obviously OK with it.

When we left the SAG then group had dwindled to 5 riders as everyone tired and going at their own pace to the hotel. Still 12 more miles of climbs and rollers and Barry seemingly on a good day led all the way.

In to Flagstaff and the group decided to stop for lunch at a Mom and Pop diner which was very good and the portions made for starving truck drivers. Somehow all of us managed to finish almost all we ordered. The hotel was a welcome site and YAHOO a test day tomorrow.