Dang, just checked the weather cam for Abajo Peak, looks a little white.  Hmmm.

Hi Dean,

I arrive in Moab on Fri Oct 31.  Plan on a two day trip around the White Rim Rd (reservation for Potato bottom on the 1st), and then try this loop the next day (see attached). I figure two long or three medium days for it.  I have checked weather cams and reports and it seems the Abajos and La Sals were still snow free as of yesterday.  I will be driving down so I will have one vehicle and dob't have a problem hitching a ride  for a point to point but a loop is easiest.  There is one more in my party so hitching may be a little more challenging.  I would appreciate any info on my loop, as well as any suggestions you might have. Thanks.

Hey group,  I'm headed down to Moab to ride the White Rim rd (two days) and would like suggestions for another route after that.  I've ridden Kokopelli, and Lockhart Basin Rd. and was looking for something along those lines.  Something in the 150 mile range.  I have been trying to put together a loop that maybe starts out at the Needles visitor center heads down around the Abajo's and back again. I have a possible route but could use some input. Thanks.

I found mine at Best buy at a clearance price of 49.99 and really, the sound is excellent

Not the smallest or lightest but great sound out of my Ultimate Ears Miniboom.  I put it on my top tube box/bag. Charges via USB.  Not sure of its ability to withstand moisture. It can pair via bluetooth or you can use a male/male headphone jack.

Rock on!

Helmets off to Jesse.  Amazing! Keep on keeping on for the rest of you!

Fan-freakin-tastic!! Congratulations Lael!  Great job, really enjoyed your journey. Cheers!!

All hail the kings! Go Josh, Go Jay, Go Neil! KEEP ROLLING ALL YOU VAGABONDS!

So what if it's been said, I'm saying it again. WOW! Great riding, great racing. Great job every one and thanks for all the pics, commentary, and awesomeness! Kind of makes one  want to ride their bike! Onwards!!

OOF!!! That was some serious work. Calves are crushed from the hike up to the north rim. Canyon hike was awesome (except maybe the last mile or so), tump line was perfect, even took time to jump in the Colorado. That route beats on you and then soothes and coaxes you back with sublime moments.  I had the most awesome tail/side wind all the way down 89 to Jacob lake.  Great job everyone.  Oh yeah, carried the easy button the whole way, but felt I only needed the support and encouragement of my family and friends to get it done!   I'll get more posted up in a few days. Be strong, Be Kind, Be Funny when you can! Cheers!

that's great.  are your pictures posted? Scott will call before heading out.  I will ask for a more exact time.

I talked to Scott Jones.  He is in Superior at the Circle K.  He ran out of food.  He had about 3000 calories for yesterday, last night, until now. or maybe since his last stop in Oracle.  the last 20 miles to picket post was stupid crazy(but the view was outstanding).  concerned about a nasty blister on the backside of his heel.  he is going to eat, sleep, eat and push on after dark.  Scott wants to know his 300 time compared to 2013.  I don't know how to figure it.  help, please, so I can pass it on to him.  thanks, Kathy and his golden power(our golden retriever girls: Remy and Knik)

Scott M.,  Someone had asked about snow, and you had mentioned the "regular snow detour" north of the rim.  If necessary, what is that route?

Jeff,  Not sure the mile marker (110ish), but you can filter from the little creek at I think La Cienega. You have to drop down to the water rather than ride across the frontage road but a reliable source.

So I am watching weather now, and I know things will change over the next 25-35 days, but I seem to recall there being a few areas that are subject to really sticky mud right after a precipitation event, and some rain seems likely for the 750. For any that know, what are the most likely areas after Picket Post. I seem to recall someone commenting that above the Mogollon Rim area was susceptible.  Anyone?

Yeah, now that I think about it and look at it, and consider my own comment about keeping it close to you, I think I will try a few runs with the wheel on.  Thanks.

I'll be using the tump line, but no extra padding. It is simple, light, compact and effective. I've been doing a hike a week with a heavier pack than I expect for the actual party and although my back has complained in different places, using the tump line has allowed me to "move it around" which allows me to keep moving without getting to a point where i just have to stop and give my back a break. It is not 'the' answer, but i am certain it will be beneficial.  The one caveat is i really believe you should  get in several practice carries with it so you minimize the chance of totally tweaking your neck.  As far as position - as high as you can (Rear axle equal to or higher than head), and as close and tight to you as you can. Both wheels off for me.  Any swinging or swaying is a no no. So, pack it, hike it, tighten it, and go! Tick Tock! Itchin' to start. Cheers all.

oh,sure...take the easy way out. Sad news comrade. Heal well.

I think 5-8 hrs depending moslty on your trail side stopping times.  I can't say what percentage is HAB. Maybe 5-10% it's just that it is split in to little sections.  It is kind of punchy little climbs on loose trail   There are others that know it far better than myself. Canelos are nice, I think you should try and get to the flume trail north of there.

I second the hood. I have a stoic pullover with a hood, that I love.  That extra ounce adds a lot of warmth/comfort.

**edit** in regards to the excellent link from mr. marx,  I usually use mine for off bike warmth, and long downhills.  I keep it in a lightweight waterproof stuff-sack and typically use it with a waterproof shell.