You did it, Utah! The most dark skies anywhere.

The state of Utah has the most certified dark skies anywhere in the world, according to the organization, International Dark Sky Parks and Communities. Way to go, Utah. We are headed for Moab, Utah soon, and there are three certified dark sky sites nearby, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. To sidetrack with you, that last park name? Dead Horse? The name came from a legend that Dead Horse is called that because it was used as a natural corral by cowboys back in the 19th century. Unfortunately, the plan included a major downside for the horses since many, many seemed to die of exposure. So, not good. 

Our longest ride of the Skinny Tire Festival is the first day, and it goes right through, you guessed it, Dead Horse Point. We are hoping to beat, by a wide margin, the fate of those horses of long ago. Here's our route, one that will challenge me. It gains more than 3,600 feet in elevation. High desert elevation at that.

At this link you can see the rides for all four days of the Skinny Tire event.

Gooseneck of the Colorado River in Dead Horse Point State Park