For the second day of the Great Revelstoke Bike Trip, we gained one more member for our cycling posse, and set off to do the epic logging road drive to the trailhead of Keystone Standard Basin. This drive is even longer and more painful than the one to access Frisby Ridge, but on the plus side you’re very nearly in the alpine from the get-go.
Keystone Standard Basin was designed as a hiking trail, but is one bikes are allowed on. As a result it is more technical, with rocks, roots, and gruntier climbs than Frisby Ridge, but to make up for this – wildly spectacular views.
We made it all the way to the hut on the lake, fighting our way through the other hoards on the trail. This lake was less soporific than the one at Frisby Ridge, and we had a nice lunch by the hut, constantly hitting at bugs.
The Moosling was kicked out of the Singletrailer for a few sections – so he could have a run, and for Alex’s sake.
There were definitely a few sections where Alex had to push the Singletrailer – unlike Frisby Ridge, where the whole thing was eminently rideable.
And Alex started to look a bit worn out…
I even got a flat tyre! And won an award for the most scenic tyre-changing location ever.
Then it was back to camp again, and the menfolk went to sea in Steve’s boat. Strangely, the Moosling hopped right into the boat and immediately tried to insert the oars into the oarlocks, and then tried to row. We’re not sure what else he’s learning while he’s at his dayhome, but as long as he doesn’t know how to assemble an AK-47 we figure we should be fine.
Distance: 23km return
Elevation gain: 950 metres
Max Elevation: 2060 metres
Good with the Singletrailer: Do-able, with a persistent and strong person towing, though you’ll probably need to walk at least a few hills