Completed my first backpacking trip! 103 miles on a solo unsupported ride around the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park on April1-2. I went the counterclockwise direction and parked at Shafer Overlook parking lot. Day one was 58 miles out to Murphy Hogback campsite. Arrived at camp the same time as a storm and then treated to a glowing rainbow at sunset. It was mid 30s F for the overnight low and barely had enough to stay warm. Day two was 45 miles around the south side. More people and vehicles on this day and also saw Desert Bighorn sheep. Absolutely beautiful views of the red rocks with snow capped LaSal Mountains behind them. There is a 1,400 foot climb at mile 95 to get back up to the parking area. The bottom feels very steep, but the higher switchbacks are all easier to pedal. The last photo shows most of the gear that I brought along (didn’t end up bringing the metal cup and sitting pad). The required food and water weighed almost twice as much as my camping gear and tools. Excellent trip! 🌞
by ShivaFantastic
2 Comments
* Intended to write bikepacking, not backpacking, then couldn’t edit the post. 🚲 🤔
Awesome! Bucket list ride for me. Been thinking about it for 20+ years