Returning to Missoula can sometimes feel like walking into a grayscale photograph. Today, the outside world seemed to wear a cloak of grey so dense, I half expected it to weigh me down if I dared to step out. It looked downright unwelcoming, a far cry from an invitation for any sort of activity. Yet, after a bit of internal wrestling, I managed to break free from the grip of my cozy indoors.
By the time I got out, the clock had already laughed at my initial plans. I had dreamed of spending over five hours biking, but this tardy departure turned my grand plans into a mere nudge to get at least some air and movement. A “quick and dirty,” if you will. Just something to shake the cobwebs loose and take a few deep breaths amidst the whirlwind of thoughts from the past few days.
My Muckluk and I ventured into the Rattlesnake area, hopeful for a slice of better conditions. Instead, our journey was a dance through mud and slush, painting us with the day’s palette. Familiar trails rolled under my wheels – Mandatory single track, Turkey Trail, Shampoo, Spring Gulch, and Stewart Peak. Each one a brief visit, a “quick and dirty” endeavor with boots on the ground for about 80% of the journey. But hey, no worries.
Just a quick and dirty… well, more of a slushy adventure, really.
Boneshakerbike 
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