23 Miles to the Reservoir

From Drop Box

Yes, today's ride was 23 miles long and a sign of my frustration with the Spring snow that kept it cold and wet most of the week.  
On Monday, I rode 13 miles and found my way to the Cherry Creek trail  which would take me to the reservoir if I turned left.  Riding after work and racing against the sun, I knew I wouldn't make it to the reservoir that night and turned right.  The trail was very  peaceful for the mile or two I rode before getting to Iliff where I could connect with the Highline Canal trail that would take me home.  I make it home safely but without the benefit of the sun.  I cut it too close to make it home in the light.
Tuesday, snow.  Wednesday, schools closed and work delayed to 10am. Thursday, lots of melting slush.  Friday, rain.  Really?!  Saturday, cold but I couldn't stand another day without a ride.  It was a quick 6.75 miles but it was a ride.  I knew warmer weather was coming so I was satisfied. 
Today, I was committed to making it to the Cherry Creek State Park where the reservoir is the centerpiece.  I set out shortly after noon following the route I defined on Monday.  It seemed easier this time, maybe because I knew what to expect.  In no time, I made it to my trail-head and turned left.  Now, every turn was a surprise.  I admit that I was a little frustrated when I crossed Havana headed east and realized I was only about two blocks south of where I had been before I made it to the trail.  I  am not  much for doubling back on myself when I am traveling under my own power.  Let it go, I thought.  A few minutes further down the trail, I reached my biggest obstacle to date.  There was a fairly short but really steep hill.  I am proud to say that I didn't dismount and walk but must admit that walking might have been faster!  I needed lower gears than ever before to make that climb.  I reached the top winded and exhausted.
After catching my breath and taking this photo, I decided I could go further still. 

From Drop Box

I opted to follow the trail along I-225 to the west.  It wrapped around the dam and came to an intersection right by Cherry Creek High School and the entrance to the park.

From Drop Box

At this point, I considered my goal met.  I had ridden about 10 miles.  I noticed a number of riders who had driven to the high school and parked, unloaded their bikes and set out around the reservoir.  Cheaters, I thought.  Riding along on my moral high horse, I turned around to head back toward home.  I finished my ride by following Monday's route from the Cherry Creek trail to the Highline Canal.  By the time I got home, I had travelled 23 miles in about two and a half hours.
I'm beat but proud.  I'll sleep well tonight, which is a good thing.  Tomorrow, I plan to ride to work.