I took the 93 Scott mtb out this afternoon for a quick out and back 16 miler for a lunch break. On the way back in I was doing 20+ mph down a false flat when I noticed a rattlesnake moving across the road. I was within inches of it's tail and had no time to move over. Fortunately, my foot on the snake's side was on the upstroke as that thing snapped around quicker than anything I've seen to strike. Felt a thump at the rear of the bike and I'm tot sure if it was a rock or if the snake actually hit the back tire but it way to close for comfort. I may have to stay out of the hills until it cools down.

Add that to the bear that crossed the road in front of me in June and the 5-6 point bull elk that jumped off the bank in front of me last week I think I've had my share of wildlife.