Year of off roading

My mountain bike has been my go to bike since I swapped out the Jones H-Bar for the On-One Midge.  I didn't expect the extend that I will be riding this bike.  I normally reserve the mountain bike for the winter because the heavier weight and higher rolling resistant.  But ever since the ride for water gravel challenge, I am logging more miles and the I have also made some changes.  I added more weight by making it a 2x, and to my surprise, I have been goinng further and faster with the additional 36t.  I haven't tried out the lowest gear yet, I am sure it will change the way I climb.  22x36 is a freaking low gear.