<font><font><br></font></font>
Starting in Safford, this ride takes us on the most difficult climb in Arizona, 21st most difficult in the US, and 245th most difficult in the World.
Two start options:
Socialize after in Wilcox at the La Unica Restaurant, 142 North Haskell Ave, Wilcox.
Ride Leader: Mark Mench, mark.mench@outlook.com
Notes:
There are no designed A or C ride leaders. A or C riders are welcome to join and ride independently as well as participate in the social event afterwards. Alternate route suggestions can be made.
If the ride leader is denoted as TBD at the time of the ride, there is no ride leader available. In this case, riders should discuss the route and safety considerations before starting the ride and read these good safety practices in advance.
The weather looks good for Saturday and we will stick with the 8 AM start time. It will be an early morning unless you plan to stay overnight in Safford.
Use this link to check weather at different elevations. We will be starting at about 3300 feet and finishing at 9000 feet.
As of now, it will be about 77 degrees at the start and 55-60 degrees at the summit with wind building during the day although much of the climb is protected. It will be in the low 90's when we finish.
The store opens at 7 AM if you need any supplies but they have not let us use rest rooms in the past. Keep in mind there is no water along the route and although we will try to set up a water stop (see below), don't plan on it. Bring water/food to complete the entire ride.
You are welcome to start earlier than 8 AM if desired. Please let me know if you will be starting at the Park or earlier than 8 AM.
Sherree and Rich will be starting from Arcadia Campground (up 11 miles) at about 9:45 and will be stashing water under their White Toyota 4Runner.
The climb is somewhat similar to Mount Lemmon, i.e. about 18 miles of continuous but steeper climbing followed by 3 miles of subtle rolling terrain with nice views. (much flatter than from Palisades to Summerhaven). About 2 total miles is over 10%.
There is 4 miles of relatively new pavement near the top but the descent in general is somewhat rough and you will need to control your line and speed. Stay in the drops and perhaps hover over the saddle where applicable. Also consider pulling off to shake out your arms, etc.
For after the ride, the market does make food, and you can run into Safford which is a few miles north. The official lunch stop is in Wilcox about 40 miles back toward Tucson at La Unica 142 N Haskell Ave. We can arrive there in stages.
References:
PJAMM Link
