As I crested the summit of the Continental Divide, goosebumps covered my entire body. The air was thin, cool, and the sky was Colorado Blue. I’m hate to say, but this was the absolute perfect day to play in the high country. There was no other place that I would rather be on my Coker. The weather just doesnt get any better than that day, plain and simple.
I had decided to drive part way up Independance Pass and begin my adventure at 9,500’. This way I could summit, go down the other side to the bottom of the switchbacks and then push back to the summit. I felt really good, strong both mentally and physically. I was ready to just “BE” on the GB436er. I had never summited from both sides in the same day either, so it was a new challenge. I got a decent start, time wise, around 8:00, so the traffic was minimal, and the wildlife was still hanging around. The push to the summit from the Aspen side is so incredibly beautiful, that the steep pitches go by quicker, thank god. I summited feeling spunky and did some laps on the paved trail on top. People were giving me the usual high fives, clapping, cheering, etc. Nothing like getting the adrenilene flowing more. I got back on the road, and went down the other side. Wow, what a rush, going 14-16 mph with steep dropoffs, and tight switchbacks to deal with. I stopped for lunch, and some photos and then headed back up to the summit. The push was steady and I made it to the top with goosebumps again.
I hated to leave the summit, it was very spiritual that day. I mounted the GB436er and headed back down to my car. When I arrived at my car, I was feeling to good. So… I continued on down the Pass for another 30 minutes, knowing fully that I would have to climb back up to the car. I guess I just didnt want to leave that mountain that day.
This was the highest average elevation, (altitude), that I have ever sustained for that length of time. I cant wait to do it again. Here are some stats.
Cheers. 
Mileage only 30 miles
average altitude 10,900’ yippeee
highest altitude reached 12,100’
average heart rate 143 bpm
max heart rate 175 bpm
average speed 9.5 mph
max speed 15.8 mph
average temperature F 55 F
low temperature 42 F
total feet climbed 3,900’
total feet descended 4,200’
link to gallery http://gallery.unicyclist.com/Coker-ride-on-Labor-Day-in-the-Colorado-High-Country
