Willow Creek Loop

Well, I had a great ride this afternoon.  It started out a little tough since I had been planning on going over Duncan Road on my way out to Duncans Mills to meet Claire.  They were doing some construction on Old Monte Rio Road, so I tried a little detour up Summit Road.  I think that is the steepest road I have ever come across in Sonoma County.  If you are ever out on a ride with me and I suggest going up Summit Road, please say no.  I actually had to get off my bike with about 15 meters to go and walk.  I was pushing a 36x25, so it was a decent gear, but to no avail.  Anyway, when I got to the top I realized that it didn't go through, so I turned around and plummeted back down. 

I met Claire out in Duncans Mills and we road out Hwy. 116 to the coast and then turned up Willow Creek Road.  We both talked about all of the memories we have had on that road.  We used to lead the Labor Day Ride up there every year.  I think I can even remember the very first time we rode up it.  It was, of course, Claire's suggestion since she loves dirt roads and will go out of her way to find them.  When she used to lead the Hub rides, people would say that if it didn't have some dirt, then Claire wasn't happy.  Anyway, when we got to  the top, we went off road along the ridge and dropped down into Willow Creek State Park.  We went down Box Springs Road for the second time.

I dropped Claire off in Duncans Mills and then headed back Moscow Road and Bohemian Hwy. up into Camp Meeker.  From there I climbed up Morelli Road.  I had a hard time keeping my rear wheel from spinning on the way up.  I dropped down Harrison Grade and made my way home from there.  Here is a link to the ride.