Colorado Scouting Trip Prep Day #1: Dust Seals, Crossbars, and Locking Down the Bike
Today marked the first serious day of preparation for my upcoming scouting trip to Colorado. The original plan was to hit the road tomorrow—Sunday—but given everything still left to do, that’s looking a little optimistic. Still, I made solid progress today and can see the vision starting to come together.
This trip isn’t just about adventure—though there will be plenty of that. I’m heading out on a mission to explore southern Colorado and evaluate whether it might be a place we’d want to relocate. Robin will be staying back, holding things down at home with the gang.
My plan is to drive west through Colorado Springs and down through areas like Salida, Alamosa, Pagosa Springs, and ultimately Durango. We’re drawn to this region for a few key reasons: it offers elevation for cooler summer temperatures, relatively low year-round humidity, and clean air.
Ever since I experienced a significant mold reaction a few years ago, I’ve been cautious about living in humid climates. It turns out that many others in the mold-sensitive community have also gravitated toward the Mountain West—and with good results. For us, that adds another layer of appeal to the Southern Rockies.
The region is also a recreational paradise. There’s no shortage of biking—both road and mountain—as well as endless hiking trails and public lands to explore. The access to nature is unprecedented, and that’s a major factor in our lifestyle considerations.
Back at home, we’ve been watching the Colorado real estate market closely. Inventory is slowly recovering, but prices remain at record highs. That’s why this trip is so important—I want to get a feel for the vibe of these towns, explore local food options (especially organic sources), and get boots-on-the-ground insight that online listings just can’t provide.
As for the travel setup, I’ll be stealth camping using the iOverlander database to find overnight spots. I’ve outfitted the truck for comfort and practicality. Today I installed tailgate gaskets to reduce dust intrusion—essential for keeping the bedding and gear clean when camping out of the truck bed on unpaved roads. While the SmartCap does have a vent system that creates positive pressure to limit dust, I’m playing it safe with extra sealing.
I also installed the Yakima crossbars on top of the SmartCap. The rail system required some pedestal modification since it’s different from my previous setup, but everything fit in the end. This allows me to attach an awning off the rear crossbar, creating a covered space to cook or relax in the rain.
Lastly, I secured the bike inside the truck bed on the custom plywood platform. I opted against using a rear-mounted rack due to theft concerns. With it locked inside, I can travel without worry.
Southern Colorado also has a great track record for air quality, with average weekly AQI values in the high 10s—something that’s hard to find in much of the country these days.
I’m genuinely looking forward to this trip—not just for what it might uncover about the future, but also because it scratches that long-standing itch for exploration and adventure.
New SmartCap mounted on the back of the truck with a Yakima rack on top
Early stages of the sleeping configuration with a cot, air mattress, and fan
The gravel bike is securely mounted on the backseat platform. The black bag is my “Get Home Bag.” Below are radios and an emergency medical bag with basic life support supplies.
The Yakima rack and a rooftop vent. The two black poles sticking up are radio antennas.