Ghostrider (Western Trail Biking - Part 1)

Was on trip out west in 2009 (Las Vegas, Nevada) and had the opportunity to do some trail riding with the mysterious, ephemeral 'Ghostrider'. He heard that I was in town, and immediately contacted me. Ghostrider only communicates through dreams - and then only to those in a deep, inebriated induced slumber. He suggested a moderate ride named the 'Bristlecone Trail' located within the Spring Mountains/Mt Charleston area north of Vegas - a frequent "haunt". At 6 miles in length the trail ascends around 1100ft in elevation, at an altitude ranging around 8100ft to 9200ft in an alpine forest in 'Lee Canyon'. I accepted immediately....

... met Ghostrider early at the lower trailhead. Said that all his "friends" called him 'GR' for short. This is GR's 'Specialized' dirt bike - not a top-of-the-line model by far, but was the best he could do at short notice. I tried it out - pretty heavy weight-wise and the frame slightly taller than what I'm used to. We made quick work of the lower three miles along double-track 'Scout Canyon Road', arriving at the spur with 'Bonanza Trail' and 'Bristlecone Trail'....

... a short break to admire some 'Indian Paintbrush' and sip some water (GR requires neither mortal need - water nor food)...

... and we continued along the upper trail...

.... GR leading the way...

... GR workin' me out - he can ride!...

... look at 'em go!!...

... started to get a bit technical - GR's specialty - mine as well - go GR, GO!!...

... didn't want to say anything, but he was smokin' me on that last section - was glad when he finally stopped to check out the view...

... didn't last long, though, and we're rollin'. The Spring Mountains are formed from thrust marine limestone - sharp as hell - like ridin' on a coral reef - wouldn't want to take a good wipeout on that stuff - GR even paused before descending this section...

... we're crankin' steadily above EL 9000ft - the far ridge line is Mt Charleston peak, around El 12,000ft...

... pretty cool area...

... GR's rock-hopping skills were impeccable...

... as was his downhill - the man was brilliant... BRILLIANT!!!...

... one last short break - nice view of the Spring Mountains...

... and he's kickin' ass and shiftin' gears - all downhill from here...

... GONE!!! - he's dustin' me!!...

... about a mile and he's waitin' on me - said that this is as far as he goes. His visits to our world are short, and his time is up for now...

... bid him farewell and continued, alone, along the double-track and back to the car - 'Mummy Mountain' high above....

......So long Ghostrider, my friend - you are one bad-ass from beyond!!!