Pueblo long weekend, MTB rides, April 24-26

Pueblo area getaway - skipped due to virus last year

Saturday afternoon, 1:00 PM - Osprey watch and ride! Meet at the Arkansas River Valley Nature Center. Ride the paved path west toward state park. Keep an eye for the ospreys nesting in the cottonwood trees along the river. Nature Center Happy Hour outside tables upon finish. Remember that the $5 parking fee is good for a treat at the center. These fees also support a good venture toward bird rehabilitation.

Possibly for a dinner meal, get take-out from Grey's Tavern, home of the famous slopper sandwiches. Made with Pueblo area green chile, these burger meals leave a nice warm glow in the belly. Soothe the taste buds with a cool drink back at the open lot by the hotel.

Sunday morning, 10:00 AM - Start this day at the South Shore Marina area, Pueblo State Park, parking in the lot near the trailhead. The trailhead is near the campground entrance. Choose from a wide variety of south side dirt trail options. Late lunch stop get together at Pedro's Point. See who can get a great picture like Liz took, see the photo used in description. Thanks to Liz for the photo!

Monday morning, 10:15 AM - Leave the hotel around 9:15, driving to Royal Gorge area, about 10 miles west of Canon City. These dirt open terrain trails are on a mesa area overlooking the gorge. Elevation is about 2500 feet higher than around Pueblo State Park. There are some great overlooks into that deep gorge along the blue trails. Everyone can enjoy the Twisted Cistern green trail loop. Marvel at the unique scenery. Personal pizza or Italian sandwich party afterward in Canon City.

Photo contest - See who can match Liz with photos??? Contestants will be judged at a later date with beverages from Moe's in Lakewood.

Follow CDC guidelines for mask wearing and social separation.

Possible overnight accommodations at individual choice:

1. Pueblo State Park camping

2. Pueblo West hotel - https://www.choicehotels.com/colorado/pueblo-west/quality-inn-hotels/co151/rates?checkInDate=2021-04-24&checkOutDate=2021-04-26

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Assumption of Risk: Mountain bike riding comes with risks. Thus, I fully understand that participation in this event activity may involve risk of serious injury or death, economic loss, property damage, or loss that may result from my own actions, in-actions, or negligence, or from the actions, in-actions, or negligence of others, the condition of the trail, equipment, or areas where the event is being conducted. By joining along, I voluntarily agree to assume this risk when participating in this event.

My RSVP constitutes electronically affirming the DBTC liability release waiver. (Find it here: http://dbtc.org/page-1532332 ).

I also understand that the DBTC organizer or other assistants for this event are volunteers and NOT professional guides. Their role is to only coordinate the gathering of people at the designated meeting place. Bikes need to be in good working order. Beyond the trail head meeting, participation is voluntary. All participants must practice safe riding for themselves and others. Participants assume responsibility for their own personal safety during the activity.