I did not spot any cougars this afternoon during my 2-hour mountain bike ride in Boise's Ridge to River Trail System. Yet my leisurely ride, led by David Gordon and Jody Liby, has been the highlight of my day, the first adventure of my 5-day trip in Idaho.
I arrived at the Boise Airport after a smooth, 90-minute Alaska Air flight from California's San Jose International Airport. I got a brief introduction to the city from Lisa, the driver of the Boise Shuttle Service, while she drove me just 3 miles to downtown Boise's Marriott Hotel. A transplant from Portland, OR, Lisa enthusiastically described the outdoor dining and the weekly farmer's market.
I joined Ron Gardner for lunch at one of Boise's new hotspots, Donnie Mac's Trailer Park Cuisine. Decorated in funky retro style, the restuarant had outoor sitting and a funky old trailer parked in its lot. The menu offers up a tasty variety of burgers, salads and possibly the best vanilla custard I have ever tasted.
After lunch, I joined David and Jody to do a little off-road exploring. I had a great full suspension red Trek mountain bike to use from Idaho Mountain Touring. Fantastic ride!
I worked up a good appetite climbing the hills on the super smooth trails winding through the hillside. We went to Hyde Park, a section of town known for lively outdoor dining and a haven for hungry mountain bikers. At Lucky 13, a casual and very popular eatery, I ordered and gobbled down a big turkey sandwich. Perfect finish to a great day.
Tomorrow: Whitewater rafting and meeting with racers who will compete in the Raid Adventure Race.
