Did this short and chill overnight loop in the Cypress Hills of Alberta, Canada. I had various route options but ended up picking the shortest one. The intention was to test out some new gear and also scope the route before taking my girlfriend there later this summer.
Started in Elk Water riding along the lake-side pathway towards Spruce Coulee reservoir. This trail gradually transforms from cement into lush double track and some surprisingly technical single track. Ended up spending the night at Spruce Coulee campground and enjoyed a calm blue sky evening next to the reservoir.
The next day I woke up to cold rain and spent the entire day riding in it. I traveled North West along a ridge towards Horseshoe Canyon knowing I'd have a bomber downhill back into Elkwater. The ridge trail was all double-track and dense fog, and the Horseshoe Canyon descent was full of wet clay patches. Needless to say I was absolutely soaked and cold by the time I got back to the car, but I was able to grab a quick shower and bike wash at one of the campgrounds.
Overall, it was a great short trip! I'd highly recommend it if you're in Southern Alberta and just wanna take it easy.
by poocherini