2019 Desert Camp - a washout day

Today was supposed to be the high point (literally and figuratively) of Chiricahua Challenge week.  However, a heavy storm front moved in overnight and brought a lot of rain.  Coupled with temperatures in the 40s F, it was a recipe for taking a pass on riding.  Fortunately we are spending two days in Willcox so there was not a need to get to a new motel.

At breakfast Lon announced that conditions were too hazardous to start at 7:30 (heavy rain and local flooding), but an abbreviated 50 mile round trip ride could start at 11 with a supported lunch stop at the turnaround.  Only about half a dozen riders took up this offer (still cold and light rain at 11), and one of them took a ride back in the van from lunch.

Retta Deane and I, along with crew member Wayne, left at 8 am to drive to the top, as we had never been to Chiricahua.  Roads in town had a lot of water - some areas with about 6 or 8 inches of water.  Not enough to prevent SLOW, careful driving, but I wouldn't want to ride a bike through them.

A wet cold morning - not what we expected in southern AZ

We made this trip to come to Chiricahua, even if it had to be by motor vehicle

Unusual and impressive rock formations