Strolling Amok

I stopped here when it struck me that I never thought I’d have the opportunity to do this kind of thing or see these kinds of sights. But they’re out there, waiting.

Ditto on this one. You know, you sure don’t see much of this in northern Illinois.

Believe it or not, I tried this climb on the Pack Mule Aurora. I made it to the rock section halfway up before having to plant a foot for balance at a crawl. Once stalled, you’re basically done, so I turned around and gingerly eased back down.

Three poles with cans and ribbons, for what purpose I never figured out.

This branch off the main trail got interesting, as the climb up to where I’m shooting from is rocky enough to challenge controlling balance as the front tire bounces this way and that. Made it, though, and without too much difficulty.

Another network of trail branches led to and beside this formation of really large pebbles.

This is the Evelo Aurora “Pack Mule” in Exploration Mode, or stripped down to stock configuration. Notice the horned Serfas Rx seat, which serves well as a good soft ride over limited distances for me. That’s detailed on the Evelo Pack Mule page. This made a good place to get off and walk around to take it all in.

This was a reminder to “pick your path!” Not much of the trail was like this, fortunately. Not paying attention can scrape a pedal. The wheel spokes would occasionally twang when the front tire flipped a small rock into them.

More of the main trail. The lump ahead is a submerged boulder.

Another branch beckoning, to which I replied, “Umm, no thanks. Not going to happen.”

I guess I’m here at just the right time of year.

A gate at a bend in the trail, possibly at private property. In any case, the reddish pole on the far side keeps ATVs from wandering in.

A typical section of the main trail, which was easy going, overall.

Since they aren’t all that common, these capture your attention when you’re wandering around.

This made me wonder as to its original function. I assume there was a shack or shed nearby, or perhaps around it.

There was a little too much of deep sand. The Michelin tires are great with sand – until it gets too deep. Then steering goes away. Speed helps, though the eventual dig-ins become more interesting.

These remind me of the animated film “Rango”, where cacti come to life. Seems like they’re tipping this way and that to get a better look! Okay boys, say “cheese!”

Taking the more interesting final approach to camp netted me this climb. I decided on hugging the left border, since it was broader and would give me the best chance to stay out of that show-stopping gully.

The upper part of that climb as it rises to the camping area. Made it! – at least to that bump on the left where I stalled and put a foot down. I didn’t feel like abusing the motor to force my way over, so I walked it to a place I could kickstand it. Probably should have crossed to the right just before it, if the gully had enough rocks in it to make a bridge.