This is truly an epic ride that is not for a newbie or someone not able to stay in the saddle most of the day. The trail is about 30 miles long and starts high above Palm Springs. There is about 6000 ft of descending but also 2400 ft of climbing. It is all rough desert with no services, no water, no food and no easy out once you pass the upper loop turn off. There are lots of cactus, rocks and the trail follows the desert terrain up and down across hundreds of dry washes. We did this ride last Sunday and it took 6 hours but we expect to be quicker this time now that we know what to expect. You need lots of water, food and several tubes just in case. A spare hanger is a good idea. We will shuttle up from our meet point and should be riding by 9:30. Plan to be out most of the day so don't tell your spouse you will see her/him for lunch. The only time to do this ride is in cool weather in the winter so now is the time. This is a cross country ride so don't bring a big heavy DH with a single front ring (if you do you will probably need to be able to afford helicopter flying time for the rescue). For maps and a full description go to

http://www.mountainbikebill.com/PalmCanyon.htm

Take I-10 to Gene Autry Trail (hwy 111) and head south toward Palm Springs. The offramp may be closed for construction so get off  before or after it and loop around to Von's. Be sure and get to the Von's at Gene Autry Trail because there are 2.