The September morning was cool with clear skies and calm wind. The scenery is ancient, rugged and beautiful. The nearly empty road, smooth. And I couldn’t be more excited to be one of only 250 riders allowed to pedal through the Petrified Forest National Park, 25 miles east of Holbrook, Arizona. I was cycling with people from all over the southwest participating in the 2021 annual Pedal the Petrified bicycle ride, organized by Northland Pioneer College to raise funds for student scholarships.
I was new to Flagstaff and had never visited the park, so when I saw the ride poster in my local bike shop I immediately jumped at the chance. I’ve cycled many miles in the world but knew instantly this was a special bike ride in a unique national park. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I was excited. Would it be hot? How hilly is the route? Will I be weaving in and out of giant 200 million year old petrified trees or just riding through a barren landscape? It didn’t take long to discover that this ride was in secure hands and the experience would be fantastic.
Three months before this ride I registered to ensure that I would be one of the 250 possible riders, the limit set by the National Park Service. I felt good knowing the registration fee went to fund Northland Pioneer College student scholarships but the ride experience alone would be worth the price. As September approached I received an excellent e-packet of information about the ride, which informed me of the available routes, start times and location, water and food support and special discounts from local hotels in the area. I felt comfortable and prepared for the ride.
On the day of the ride, I was greeted by friendly and organized ride staff who set a relaxed yet excited tone. This ride was not a race, but a ride for all levels of experience and capabilities offering a choice of both 50 and 100 km (31 and 62-mile) routes. Rest stops of food and water were available about every 5 miles and the volunteers were delightful and helpful. I took the opportunity to stop at every beautiful scenic overlook and history marker, while others were content to ride straight through. I meet many different and interesting riders from all over the southwest and we marveled over the scenery and the unforgettable experience of the ride.
I encourage all my friends and cyclists from around the country to give this special ride a try. I haven’t had any problem getting friends of mine to join me because of the uniqueness of the location, being able to support a good cause, and exclusiveness of the number of riders allowed. This ride will always be one of my most memorable bicycling adventures.
Bill Waters, Flagstaff, AZ
