Stuart Peak Trail, Missoula

Well, it's been a bit since I hit the hills. Today after dropping the two rascals at dry-land practice, I drove to the Rattlesnake trail head and decided I was going to ride to Stuart Peak. Point 6 from Stuart trail below.I knew that I would be riding down the Stuart trail in the dark tonight, so I brought along two lights. I did not know the snow would be down to where it was, however. The trail was partially
covered at about 6000 feet, and completely covered for the last mile or so to the wilderness boundary. There is another "MOUNTAIN BIKES PROHIBITED BEYOND THIS POINT" sign at the below junction. These signs are discouraging. Bicycling in the forests really should not be prohibited. That, at least, is our view. Most mountain bikers care about the trails and protecting the environment.Anyway, it got dark on top and I did not pack my boots for a little hike to the peak, so 7200 would have to do. It was about 6.30. Man, this ride felt great though. Excellent. Riding in snow is fun. Helps to adjust the balancing skills and keep the fingers off the front break coming down. The new light set up was A+ this evening. I came down in pitch black, but it looked like a lit up interstate to me. Dark, snow and one of the bumpiest descents in the area! Yeah. No problems with critters, though I did have one loud noise maker below me at one point. I have not been able to figure out why some pictures blow up and some do not, so I posted these in my photo area. Get out and ride. Fall is beautiful here! Hunting season opens Sunday. Keep your head down! I almost drove over a black bear tonight driving out of the Rattlesnake at 7.30. It felt good to ride again. It's been a while! Map post tomorrow. It was 15.4 mile round trip and about 3500 feet. Maybe head back up with some hiking boots for photos of the lakes from the top. Of course, it is hunting season now though, so maybe not! Though I drew a permit again, I had to miss antelope season this year.