Birthday Flagstaff

Well my birthday waw coming up October 13th and I sure had an idea of riding my bike for the day. I planned a route after seeing a few people riding a big loop that included a ton of trails I have not ridden and wanted to. The loop was 50 miles and when I got the green light I was off to Flagstaff! I parked in the familiar area at the base of Schultz trail, man that place is looking different every time I go. The begining of the loop was a series of paths an lots of connections before I would get onto the primo trails. Even along the paths I was thriled, the ride started off laced with trees and neighborhods, the leaves were changing on the cottonwoods, maples and oaks, it made me really happy!After a few rough connections I was finally entering the AZT section of walnut canyon. It was a few rough sections and then some very smooth flowy track in the pines for a long time, the pedaling was easy too, I did notice that my legs were a bit off, not a good day for that but there was multiple bail sections if neeeded. Once that beautiful walnut canyon are was done it was quite a few lvestock gates and in and out of meadows and pines, still not much climbing. After passing under 89 and getting asked if I wanted to buy a laptop...... I sat down for a snack break. By now I was not feeling my best, I knew I had stellar trails ahead but climbing. I think I need to strategize different foods to bring. So I began to climb up the AZT some more, it was rough, it should not have been on any other day but it was today. I reached a section I have ridden before and man I love that stuff! It felt like forever but I reached the bottom of little bear. Knowing what was ahead I already knew I was in trouble, I rode up anyway. The scene was stellar!!!!!!!!!!! leags tired. I walked more than I care to admit but still made decent time to the top. Then it was on the upper brookbank, I thought I have rode it before and turns out I have, this section has been redone and the upper section was pretty raw and by now so was I...... The last section was riding through dry lakes to connect to the new big bang trail. By now I wa praying for a fast downhill ride to the car but when I did find it, which was improperly mapped entrance I was again walking a few sections I would be climbing with ease any other day. Then it finally was going downhill, this Big Bang trail was AWESOME! There was some uphill traffic and despite seeing two riders all day this is where I encountered 5-6 more people. The trails was rough on my 50 mile worn neck and palms but I was descending fast, the trail was smooth and rough on and off. When it came to a close it felt aazing to have reached the car. It as later than hoped but I was so so so happy and absolutely loved this ride! I got home fore some cake and rest and the day was done.