The Plan

A 90-minute after-work gravel ride to check early spring trail conditions. Goal: see what's rideable, test some gear changes from winter, and get outside on a weekday.

What Happened

Left at 4:30 PM, hit the trailhead by 4:50. The lower sections were mostly clear—some mud but rideable. Above 6,000 feet, patches of snow made sections tricky. Turned around at the halfway point.

Distance: 14 miles Time: 1 hour 25 minutes Conditions: 52°F, partly cloudy, light wind

What Worked

  • Tire choice: 40mm gravel tires with moderate tread handled the mud well
  • Layering: Vest over jersey was perfect for the temperature range
  • Timing: Leaving right after work meant I still had daylight to spare

What I'd Change

  • Bring a headlamp just in case—daylight is still short in early March
  • Pack a dry base layer for the drive home
  • Check trail reports the day before instead of winging it

Key Takeaway

Weekday micro-adventures are possible with minimal planning. The key constraint isn't time—it's getting out the door before you talk yourself out of it.