For Whom The Bell Tolls
Richard and I made a
noble push along Bell Ridge, negotiating rocky climbs, steep descents,
abyss-like ruts and man-grabbing foliage. At ride's end, it was only
the lack of sunlight (days are short now) that stopped us from
continuing on lap two. I jest. We weren't that strong. In truth, the
five hours was well spent but a bit exhausting. I thought I would
have enough fuel left over from Turkey day, but that wasn't the case. I
found myself bogging down on the final climbs - bonking as it were -
losing breath and energy over each small hilltop. Typically downhills
are for recovery, but Bell takes it toll descending as well. I found
myself at the mercy of gravity and terrain, out of breath and holding
on. Next time I will eat more.The views from Pinos Peak were stunning. This is the highpoint of the route, offering a panoramic view from the snowy San Bernadino Mountains to San Clemente Island. Richard pointed out where the 5 freeway winds over the ridge near Carmel Valley in Del Mar. Beyond that we could see the distant ridge lines of Mexico. Bell Ridge begins just a stone's throw from the peak. The trail requires several more climbs -steep, wearisome hike-a-bike ascents - and plenty of descending - steep descents, loose, rocky descents, and harrowing I-wish-I-wasn't-looking descents. We kept our tire pressure low, our skidding in control, walked some of the can't-see-bottom section (yes, it is that steep) and I even tripoded a bit. Our strategy was successful, we arrived back at the car with smiles of satisfaction.
