A few weeks ago, I went to a trail building work party. Work parties come in all shapes and sizes regarding how close or accessible work sites are to either the trailhead or drive-in spot. In this case, it was park at the trailhead and then bike in. It was roughly 3-3.5 miles to get to the worksite.
We had been experiencing a little bit of a cold snap. Well, “cold” for us. The temps ever so slightly dipped below freezing overnight. When I took off on my bike, the trails still had a touch of snow and ice on them. Since I wasn’t there to shred, I nonchalantly pedaled onto my destination.
The temps were already climbing, and it was at least above freezing. By the time I got to the worksite, it had just started to rain. Since it rains regularly here in the Pacific Northwest, it was no cause for alarm. We were under a thick tree canopy which kept the trails dry. Several hours later, I found myself pedaling back to the van to pack up and begin my journey home.
But first, coffee.
I had decided to bring my coffee set up to enjoy a nice post-ride cup of coffee. I was fortunate, too, as it was raining hard by the time I got back to the trailhead and my van. No tree canopy at the trailhead. The rain pounded the roof of my van as I climbed in. After taking off my muddy shoes then, the fun began. It was time for coffee.
I didn’t simply opt for a hand grinder, my Aeropress, and Jet Boil. Instead, I brought some of my goods to brew coffee for outdoor events. I had my electric power pack, electric coffee grinder, gas stoves, and pourover set up. As the rain beat down on my van, I was enjoying the process of warming up by brewing coffee.
All told, it probably took me 20 minutes to brew my cup. Since I decided to snap photos during the process, it took longer than usual. However, the payoff was worth it. A fresh-brewed cup of coffee. While sipping on coffee, I packed up my coffee supplies into my tote, slid into the driver’s seat, started the van, and began the drive back into Portland.
While it may not seem like much, having the ability to brew and enjoy a cup of coffee at the trailhead was a treasure and a treat. I also realized that I want to do this more often after rides, especially during the winter months here. Sure, it’s a process, but it was worth it.
