Evie and I spent last week in Mammoth Lakes California, one of the most beautiful places in the country, but before that we did, we got to experience some other cool parts of nature.

Winter Park, CO

In June, we took a trip to Winter Park, CO where Evie spent a summer in college working at a kids camp and exploring the area. The world famous Trestle bike park was our destination, the drive was awesome and the park did not disappoint.

Before jumping on the lift I took a spin up to Berthoud pass, topping out at 11,307′ which was pretty awesome. After we rode some awesome trails with monster berms and big jumps we grabbed pizza and then went for a hike near the pass. We hiked about a mile up above tree line and had some spectacular views!

Mammoth Lakes, CA

The last two years Mountain Bike Nationals has been held in Mammoth Lakes, CA. A great venue with lots to do, Mammoth is an all around great place.

Evie raced Downhill and I did XC. My course was the same with a few more holes and bumps. The Cat 1 DH course was a monster. Super loose, big rocks, and gnarly 4-5 foot drops. We arrived on Wednesday to get some practice time in. It’s always fun to go to these kind of events because it brings in people from across the country, many of our friends whom we don’t get to see, but a few times a year.

We rented a condo from the same place last year right by the start finish. Joe and our friends Jonnie and Michele stayed with us and we all had a great time hiking, riding, and listening to live music at the village. I even saw a bear!

Our races went well. Having to stop trail side during the race last year bettering my result was going to be pretty easy so I just went into the race with no expectations of placing, just to ride a strong 6 laps start to finish, and I did. I ended up 22nd on the day which I’m very happy with considering I rode a solid race, holding my position at the start, putting time in on the descents, and picking a handful of guys off as the race progressed.

Evie also had a good race placing 2nd in the Cat 1 30-39 women on a super chewed up course. The women were the last to go on Saturday. Each day the course was changing a ton which made it hard to dial in your lines so we were both very happy with our results.

On Saturday Joe and I did a fun ride up to the top of a nearby mountain peak with some incredible views of Mammoth and the surround area.

Up next, The Dakota FIVE-O, my favorite race of the year on Labor Day weekend in Spearfish, SD. Until then, happy trails.