Anemone Trail

Anemone holds a special place in my heart.  Our dog has even climbed it (a pitbull lover will tell you how sensitive these sweethearts are to summer heat) Anemone's difficulty is not extreme, but the view is massive (almost full 360, for a fraction of the effort to Sanitas)  The start of Anemone intersects several options.  The trail starts with a smooth dirt ascent, which soon turns rocky and steep (with welcoming peak)  Always psyched for Anemone.       

Cycling Sunshine Canyon Solo

While it can be done on a 28, the ascent definitely calls for a 32/40T cassette (seated) Found the rear wheel spinning sand (out the saddle)  Blazing sun, convenient rest stops, gorgeous views.  With a maximum grade of 21-24% Sunshine Canyon definitely requires pacing.  Underestimated the climb for sure.  It's convenient to blame altitude acclimation, wonky sleep, slacking nutrition/glucose exhaustion, 28T cassette, or emotional stress.  In reality, the climb is just a bit soul-crushing.  I recommend going up in peak condition...otherwise, relax.  The descent offers short and steep switchbacks, many blind turns, very few potholes. Epic ride.   

Arapahoe > Flagstaff > Baseline

I've been wanting to explore Arapahoe AND Baseline. So what better way than take Arapahoe to Flagstaff, hit the Strava segment on Flagstaff, and ride Baseline back.  The road conditions and vehicular traffic taking Arapahoe into Boulder (center) were intense. I'd highly suggest Baseline in either direction. Baseline has a wider shoulder, smoother tarmac, and is full of "sport and commuter" cyclists of all types.
Flagstaff was fun.  Snow-capped mountains, ominous and cloudy Flatirons.  Met a friendly deer and helped her cross the road.  Young kids in sporty cars, flooring it on the straight-away, could've hit her for sure.  The deer aren't shy here.  Brought one metal bottle, refilled it once. First water had electrolyte / hydration powder.  Had a few dark chocolate peanut butter cups.  Even though I don't enjoy chocolate on rides, put myself in a situation where I had no option. I'd rather meditate on chocolate.
Coming back on Baseline was fun.  Got the high / leg chills.  Drafted behind a bus and later behind a confident commuter with a large messenger bag.  Strong rider, nice pace.  Epic road conditions and beautiful rolling hills.  The scenery is amazing here. Everywhere I look is like a landscape painting, stunning and surreal.  Always grateful, it will never get old.