Upper Comanche

So, you want to ride the full length of the canyon and maybe skip some of the crowds? Great, the Comanches have you covered! The first section, Upper Comanche, starts at the Mack Dick Group Pavillon. It's a gentle start--a pedal across the canyon floor through rock outcroppings and cedar stands. There will be a dip or two, a brief climb or three, and a certified sandy spot or four. The real fun begins once you reach the canyon wall. The singletrack winds up and along a narrow ledge featuring blind corners and what is fair to call a drop-off in spots. Depending on the time of year and the time of day, you may encounter another trail user. Yes, turkeys count as trail users. A friendly, "Rider up" or bell ding wouldn't hurt. Once you traverse the ledge, it's another sprint across the canyon floor. Dips. Rocks. Sandy spots. You could bail out at the Hackberry Campground, but why do that? Oh, you need to use the restroom? Understandable, but otherwise, skip the bail out and tackle the first true climb--a mild switchback behind the campground. It's a minor struggle, compared to what awaits on Middle Comanche. Save your break for the "window rock" feature. You're forgiven for taking a pic of your bike propped up, all nice and framed by the rocks. However, there is no forgiveness for a selfie. There's a little rock notch near the window feature that has some spice. Heartburn? You'll reach a trail map soon enough. At the map, take the Soapberry Spur to the road for relief. Just know the relief isn't instant--you'll have to work a bit. Up for more? Middle Comanche is next.