THE CARRIZO PLAIN
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The Carrizo Plain is a 180,000-acre national monument in – from a GS point of view – our own backyard.
There is a lot to see and do here – and almost all of the roads are unpaved. After a refuel in Maricopa, we will begin our reconnoiter. The Carrizo appears spacious at first; a grand and empty place. Yet it boasts a growing antelope population, and I’ve heard rumours of Elk introduction to the area. Sandhill Cranes are one of a host of bird species known to winter on Soda Lake and other nearby water bodies. I've watched a prairie falcon disappear over a hilltop, chasing the dust trail of a racing jack rabbit, only to see both reappear moments later, a golden eagle closing from behind. The San Andreas Fault also makes a striking appearance here. For more info on the Carrizo Plain, start HERE.
ADR 03 / ADR 04 Comparison: Generally speaking, the riding terrain in the Carrizo is easily manageable. Winter weather and the remoteness of the locale tend to increase the sense of challenge to riding in this area. Primary challenges will be steep hills, and terrain which is sometimes loose or low on traction.
Lunch will take place out in the boonies, as usual: Pack your own, or choose from this menu provided by Main Course California:
There is a lot to see and do here – and almost all of the roads are unpaved. After a refuel in Maricopa, we will begin our reconnoiter. The Carrizo appears spacious at first; a grand and empty place. Yet it boasts a growing antelope population, and I’ve heard rumours of Elk introduction to the area. Sandhill Cranes are one of a host of bird species known to winter on Soda Lake and other nearby water bodies. I've watched a prairie falcon disappear over a hilltop, chasing the dust trail of a racing jack rabbit, only to see both reappear moments later, a golden eagle closing from behind. The San Andreas Fault also makes a striking appearance here. For more info on the Carrizo Plain, start HERE.
ADR 03 / ADR 04 Comparison: Generally speaking, the riding terrain in the Carrizo is easily manageable. Winter weather and the remoteness of the locale tend to increase the sense of challenge to riding in this area. Primary challenges will be steep hills, and terrain which is sometimes loose or low on traction.
Lunch will take place out in the boonies, as usual: Pack your own, or choose from this menu provided by Main Course California:
House Roasted Turkey Sandwich with Red Onion Marmalade, Arugula, & Roasted Peppers
-or-
MCC Philly – Grass Fed Beef with Roasted Peppers & onions, Chimichurri & Cheese
-or-
Grilled Veggie Sandwich – Grilled Seasonal Vegetables, Chimichurri & Hummus
A side of Pita Chips & Hummus is included with any sandwich,
as well as gourmet trail mix for snack time.
-or-
MCC Philly – Grass Fed Beef with Roasted Peppers & onions, Chimichurri & Cheese
-or-
Grilled Veggie Sandwich – Grilled Seasonal Vegetables, Chimichurri & Hummus
A side of Pita Chips & Hummus is included with any sandwich,
as well as gourmet trail mix for snack time.
Please make your preference known when you register.
Dave Harner contemplating the past. DST 02 - Carrizo Plain National Monument.
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