Sam's 5th Ride

It's that time of year!  Sam guided us on his 5th Annual Spring Poker Ride!  Those that participated were treated to spectacular views of snow covered peaks, beautiful early spring wildflowers, elk herds, soaring raptors and an occasional pronghorn antelope.  The trail was a  level 1, the perfect season opener for those rusty from the lack of saddle time resulting from the longer than normal Idaho winter. 

The pre-ride meeting after a filling breakfast of french toast at Bad Boy Burgers on Fairview.

The first "necessary" stop after several cups of pre-ride coffee.

The remains of the stage stop on the Oregon Trail is a must see.

Riding toward the pass.

Stop at the pass on Bennett Mountain Road for photo ops and to appreciate the incredible panorama of the Soldier Mountains.

The weather was perfect, mild and warm in spite of the snow drifts.

Heading north Lynn waves goodbye to Bennett Mountain

One last stop to soak up the view of the Soldiers.

Crossing highway 20 Sam took us down the Castle Rock cut-off for photo ops of Indian Head  ....

...and Castle Rocks.

After a short sprint down highway 20 we rode across Anderson Ranch Dam.

Sam stopped at the top of Danskin Grade for great views and more photo ops.  The South Fork Road was in great shape.

After  R&R at the Y-stop near Prairie and fuel fill for those with  "tiny tanks" we travelled the 42 miles back to Boise.  I can never resist the view from the western crest of Neal Bridge Grade above the backwaters of Arrowrock Reservoir.  GPS said 205 miles R.T. and 5 hours 15 minutes saddle time.

Thanks Sam.  You picked the perfect day and route for another great annual ride.  Can't wait for the 6th!