PHP in Autumn

With ski season coming next month in November Ann and I took our last downhill mountain biking laps at Killington around lunchtime. Then we headed back home and I rode over to PHP for some unassisted ascending  

I wanted to try Jersey Turnpike from the other direction so I climbed up Furlough and then rode Sore Elbow which I gather was name for the fact that it’s technical. A quick cut through on Annex and I was on the Turnpike. 

What’s cool about hitting this trail from this direction is that it climbs up over some slick rock and some techy sections to roach outcropping descent, almost like a roller. Granted, the other direction is way better but it helps to learn the nuances of the park by riding the trails in both directions. 

After Jersey Turnpike I turned onto Droopy Muffin and descended down to the seven trail intersection and who should I encounter? It was Chittenden Mike!

I rode the Overlook Trail in reverse this time, going over the suspension bridge and the climbing up the backside of a roach outcropping/trail feature and taking a break at the Overlook that looks out over Rock Pond.

I took these shots near the water’s edge

because leaves were so vibrant

and it looks like peak leaf season may come early this year. 

Heading back, I took Underdog back to the other side of Droopy Muffin and then out on Svelte Tiger. The new dropper post is awesome. Everyone should have one!

Then a quick descent on Exit Strategy and rolled back home on the Rutland Bike Path and River Road. I was tempted to stop at Rutland Beer Works but I didn’t want to drink alone. 

I really dislike the change Strava made to their export feature which further solidifies my resolve not buy a subscription.