Part 1 - Have Dirt, Will Travel - Pilgramage

THE PILGRIMAGE

Mountain biking. For more than 22 years now, it’s been one of the knights of my inner round table. It’s as high up on my hierarchy of needs as finding a meal or a bed.

And while mixing dirt into my ride to work or spending weekends in the local forests with friends can tide me over in the short term, my long-term wellbeing depends upon one thing: having that lengthy trip to look forward to.

Anticipation doesn’t just build excitement. It builds character.

You can always tell how consumed by the knobby-tired life another rider is by how often they mention their upcoming MTB vacation. Like an endorphin-powered tractor beam, the approaching trip prevails over all, dominating every conscious and subconscious hour.

And this time around, that lucky rider is you.