I was biking up a long and steep mountain trail. The trail ascended from the Pacific Ocean and eventually lost itself within a redwood forest. At the point where I entered the thick forest I heard, and then saw, a large black object plowing through the brush. Seconds later an enormous horned boar emerged on the trail above me and froze...glaring its eye in my direction. Seriously, this creature was huge - I wouldn't have been able to wrap both my arms around its belly if I tried!

I thought, "is this how it's going to end...a boar running me off the trail?"

The beast stared at me; somewhat startled, and somewhat angered that I was in its territory. I slowed my pace down, looked the boar right in the eyes...gazing intently I let out a large grumble. The boar didn't move.

I exhaled, took in a deeper breath, and made an even louder sound. The boar instantly turned around and ran into the bushes.

I continued biking uphill with a grin from ear to ear.

Ride On!
steve