After working back-to-back events in Moab and Chicago, a long weekend of activities was in order. I started things off on Friday, with a climb and descent of 11,500 foot Mt. Watson in the Uintas. Mirror Lake Highway was partially open, permitting a manageable approach and quick push. Huxley toured alongside, but when the going got too steep, he opted to call it a day and wait for me below my line.

Back at the truck and feeling great, I knew I wanted to keep the excitement flowing. The thought of staying in the city just sounded horrible. I knew of a desert party down in Goblin Valley, so I loaded the truck up with bikes and toys and hit the road. Rolling in at midnight, it was the perfect mix of 'easy going desert relaxation' and 'drink beer and celebrate life'. When there's a fire roaring and stars glowing, you can't not smile.

The next day, the desert folks gathered themselves and headed into Ding & Dang slot canyons in the San Rafael Swell. Our group was massive, dysfunction was high, and we may or may not have attempted the double-canyon loop the wrong way. This resulted in some large upclimbs (especially for the dogs), going against traffic in very tight spaces, and having to eventually retreat back to camp.

But when you're in the desert, you're always having fun - riding bikes down double tracks, climbing strange rock formations, and soaking up Vitamin D. Below is a selection of images from those fun times, playing under the sun in Goblin Valley.

After the desert, I skipped over to Red Canyon outside of Bryce to ride the Thunder Mountain Trail. All in all, it was a well-rounded weekend and it filled my soul with enough happiness to forget the stresses of life.