Back to the Nevada Outback

Cooler temps and clear skies got me to thinking about another bike pack trip. Getting outta cell range and skipping all the pre-election hoo hah was a motivating factor too, so off I went to Nevada.

 Easy pedaling on fine, well graded roads made for a great start.

A long but gentle climb led me to the top of this pass.

The destination for the day was this area near a spring. I found cool running water beneath the bright Cottonwood tree.

Next morning I rolled north past this well where the cowboy who runs cattle out here has installed a solar powered pump. The cattle weren't on the range yet, so no water for me.

Soon I was climbing up a pretty little canyon.

 

 

 After an hour or so I was up in the serene Pinyon/Juniper woodland.

I had studied maps and satellite images and noticed a spring high up in the hills. I couldn't see any sign of water on Google Earth, but was encouraged when I came across this sign.

Hopes dashed. Not a drop. Fortunately I loaded up with a lot of water at the previous spring so I was fine for dinner, breakfast the next morning, and a few hours of riding after that.

Camp was a pleasant, established site just off the road.

 

I went for a stroll prior to setting camp enjoying good views and solitude.

Next morning I descended back into the big valley. I was prepared to ride back to the spring I camped at on day one, but was hoping there might be a little water at place labeled "Cow Camp" on the map.

Cow Camp!

What a find. There were jugs of water too!

The stove worked. The propane fridge probably did too although I did not try it. There was even a little firewood for the woodstove - which I fired up the next morning.

Mailbox minutiae.

Having secured water and a fine place to sleep, I decided to explore the neighboring hills.

I came across this "Guzzler" for Big Horn Sheep.

This large metal structure captures rain water for the reservoir.

I parked the bike, put on the hiking shoes and set off for a little nearby peak.

The views from the summit were tremendous!

Back at Cow Camp in the evening I strolled about and took a few more photos.

Part of the cabin houses the well. This is the well mast with drilling rod stacked inside.

Hitchin post

The next morning dawned beautifully with a mix of pretty clouds and blue skies.

Perusing the maps I noticed a shortcut back to the truck. First up into the hills again.

Then a sweet plunge down this nice gorge.

Back to the hamlet near where I parked my truck.

 Love this country!