Snow time

While the cycling pros have been doing base miles for at least a month, and many have already been to the first of their training camps - some of us are relishing winter and some cross training.



My wife and I traditionally spend the week between Christmas and New Year's day in Tahoe for a solid week of cross training. And this year was no exception.






The week started off with a couple of clear days and some skiing at our local resort - Tahoe Donner.

Then the snow started to roll in and we headed toward Royal Gorge - the largest XC area in the nation, with over 300 km of groomed trail.

Tomorrow we will get in a couple of hours of skiing then head into the back country for some snow shoeing - and some photography.

Then on New Year's eve - it's back to Southern California and to the bikes. And we are looking forward to starting the season in January with coverage of some of the training camps.

Hope you are having a great holiday - and are looking forward to a year of outstanding cycling.

Southern Calif Fires

Fires dominate the news, TV and our life in Southern California these days.

Almost anyone who rides competitively in Southern California knows about Santiago Canyon and it's great road and mountain biking - but not today. Today the area is covered in smoke.



















Helicopers work the fire - slowing it down and protecting the homes along the canyon.

Fire fighters wait for the flames to come down the canyon.

As the fire approaches the fire fighters wet down the brush

A view of Dontes' inferno - after the main part of the fire passes through.

As the sunset a few of the fireman were able to put equipment away -

....and find a little time for pizza.

Flume Trail

It's the off season and time to get off the road and do a few other things.

Last weekend we were up at Tahoe to do a little riding and some hiking. Normally we ride the road when we are in this area - but we decided to head back into the woods to see some spectalar color. We choose the Flume trail which starts at Spooner Lake and comes out near Incline Village - all on the East Side of Lake Tahoe. As we found - in mid October it has some of the most spectacular color in the lake Tahoe area.