Gorgeous February Day~

 I hadn't been out for a ride since the second of the month.  The last day that was warm enough for me to want to ride.  After that day, we endured a long & bitter cold snap.  We received a few inches of badly needed snow that stayed frozen to the ground.  On the 22nd we reached the mid-30's & the following day, the temperature climbed into the mid-50's.  The snow began to melt off. 

On my way~

Today, the sun was shining & the welcome warmth made headway over the snow.  I decided to make the drive to Lake Manawa & take my chances with the condition of the trails.  I was really surprised to find that for the most part, they were dry!

Mid-American coal plant

I rode out toward I-29 before continuing my loop.  It seemed to be several degrees warmer out in the open.  Side dump trucks were running non-stop along E. Lake Manawa Drive & entering off Veterans Memorial Highway.  The noise was incredible.  At the light my timing was so poor, I had a semi's coming from all three directions.  I waited for the light, made sure all three drivers had seen me & crossed as fast as I could!

Cottonwood & the lake~

It was a relief to reach the gate of the campground & get away from the traffic.  As I went to ride around, I could feel Shadow's tires sink into the soft ground.  It was much softer than I'd expected.  I managed to stay upright & cross through to the paving.

Lake from the South trail~

Riding along the south side of the lake, it's nice to get a partial view through the trees.  Once the leaves open, the view is gone.  I rode past where the Bronco was parked & on to the turnoff going to Picnic spot #7.

Toward the lake~

This trail curves its way through the most natural area left in the park.  There's still a tent camping spot to the left.  Ahead & to the right, is one smaller development of homes with a waterway to the lake.

The view~

I was lucky to be the only one here.  It's my favorite time of year to ride, when there are so few people.  Later in the season, the picnic shelter is available for parties etc. & is almost always a busy place.  I was just happy to out again & able to enjoy every minute of the rapidly lengthening daylight hours.