Sunday, March 26, 2017
More Bike Maintenance
The Trek needed lots of maintenance when I retuned form the Northern Tier cross country trip. Unfortunately they did not have my disc brake pads in stock. They got them in just before Christmas which was convenient so I dropped the bike off. Unfortunately when they tried to put the pads on they discovered one of my rotors was warped. Of course they didn't have the new rotors so the bike was OOC for another 2 weeks. Everything is good now except the weather. I don't ride in rain or cold if I can help it so January usually has very few riding miles.
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Bike Needed Some Maintenance
After nearly 5,000 miles since the last major maintenance the bike was ready for an overhaul. I had my bike shipped from Seattle directly to Bike Beat in Chesapeake, Virginia. The crew at Bike Beat has always taken great care of me including getting a wheel shipped to me in North Dakota on warranty and this time was no different.
Bike Beat did a thorough evaluation of the bike when they received it. Besides the annual service it needed a new bottom bracket, disc brake pads, chain and cassette. The front wheel, computer and computer sensors were replaced under warranty.
I also replaced the rear derailleur because I got a different gear set with the new cassette which required a different derailleur.
The computer problem was a tough nut to crack. Bike Beat originally just replaced the batteries in the sensor and computer and it appeared to be working. However when I did my test ride it did not work which was typical of my trip. So Bike Beat replaced the computer and it worked for a few minutes before stopping again. Finally they also replaced the sensors. Problem solved.
Total bill was $550 after deducting the $750 warranty items. Thank you Bike Beat.
Bike Beat did a thorough evaluation of the bike when they received it. Besides the annual service it needed a new bottom bracket, disc brake pads, chain and cassette. The front wheel, computer and computer sensors were replaced under warranty.
I also replaced the rear derailleur because I got a different gear set with the new cassette which required a different derailleur.
The computer problem was a tough nut to crack. Bike Beat originally just replaced the batteries in the sensor and computer and it appeared to be working. However when I did my test ride it did not work which was typical of my trip. So Bike Beat replaced the computer and it worked for a few minutes before stopping again. Finally they also replaced the sensors. Problem solved.
Total bill was $550 after deducting the $750 warranty items. Thank you Bike Beat.
Friday, August 12, 2016
Ship the Bike Home
I decided to stay in Seattle an extra day because I did not know how hard it would be to get the bike shipped home. I turned out to be very easy and the extra day was not necessary. Oh well! A free day in Seattle is never a bad thing. Great tourist city.
Velo bike shop was just 10 blocks from my hotel. I headed there as soon is they opened. All I had to do was fill out the form and they took care of all of the rest including arranging for shipping. Packing and shipping was $140 and I also bought $2000 insurance for $20. It is estimated to be delivered at Bike Beat in Chesapeake in 7 days.
The bike actually was delivered in 6 days with no damage. I am a happy camper. Now it needs some well earned maintenance before I hit the road again. In the meantime I will be using my mountain bike.
Velo bike shop was just 10 blocks from my hotel. I headed there as soon is they opened. All I had to do was fill out the form and they took care of all of the rest including arranging for shipping. Packing and shipping was $140 and I also bought $2000 insurance for $20. It is estimated to be delivered at Bike Beat in Chesapeake in 7 days.
The bike actually was delivered in 6 days with no damage. I am a happy camper. Now it needs some well earned maintenance before I hit the road again. In the meantime I will be using my mountain bike.
Day + 69 August 4, 2016
Snohomish, WA to Seattle, WA 36 miles
The last day. Wakeup was to a very foggy morning on the soccer field at 7 AM. Everyone was up and getting ready at the same time which we haven't seen since the very beginning of the trip. We are all leaving as a group for breakfast at 8 AM. Because of the very wet air I did everything except pack the tent hoping it would dry off before we left. But it didn't and got put away very wet. We were off in a group all dressed in our Bike the US for MS jerseys for the diner. All of us piled into Jake's Café in Snohomish for a very good and big breakfast. Then we were off again as much in one group as you can get with this many people. We turned onto Route 9 to Seattle. Immediately I started cursing the person that picked this road. For one it was very busy and the first thing we came to was a narrow bridge with no shoulders. We waited at least 3 minutes for a break in traffic so we could cross. It was not enough time to cross but only enough time for us to get into the lane. Traffic had to slow while we crossed the approximately 300 foot long bridge. After that there were shoulders so it was tolerable. We went about 12 miles to a Target parking lot to regroup.
From Target on to Seattle we had a bike path which was very safe but also very boring. The group spread out more the farther we went and I ended up getting to the Gas Works Park along Lake Washington with only Jennifer. Everyone else had dropped back. It was only about 10 minutes before others started to drift in and everyone was there within a half hour. We had plenty of time for pictures with Seattle and the Space Needle in the background. The morning had gone from soggy and completely overcast to perfectly clear and my arms were getting a little red. Unfortunately I had no access to the van and my sun screen for now.
After another half hour we formed up again and rode to Peddler Brewing for lunch. It was about 4 miles of city riding which is not my favorite but we arrived without incident. Peddler Brewing had a party area in back. They were serving their craft beer and there was also a Taco Truck. I had a fish taco, a steak taco and a steak quesadilla along with Mexican lime soda.
After lunch a check for $15,000 was presented to the Swedish MS Center of Seattle and we received 4,295 mile stickers and Bike the US for MS Socks. There is only one official duty left and that is to dip our tires in the Pacific. That required another 2 mile ride to Myrtle Edwards Park for the tire dip. Again we started as a group but stretch out fairly quick. We had a fairly long and narrow sidewalk to navigate over a highway bridge that I didn't like at all. After that we were on a bike path the rest of the way.
We had the traditional tire dip in the Pacific. Actually it was Puget Sound but close enough. Then we had enough Champaign bottles for everyone. I was fortunate enough to avoid a shower but had a good long drink. Then lots of pictures. Many of the younger riders went swimming. Then it was off to the hotel.
Sharon, Cassie and I walked to the hotel which was only a couple of blocks away. The hotel was super convenient but also super expensive. I am staying 2 nights but only have to pay for 1 night. The first night I have 2 roommates and Bike the US for MS is paying. The van and trailer were already in the parking lot when we got there. I got my room key and emptied out my cubby, food cubby and day cubby. This really signaled the end of our great adventure. It is an empty feeling after you have been engaged with an activity for 69 days 24 hours a day. It was amazing how fast the group split up.
Alison invited everyone to a bar down the street and about half of the people went. I stayed about 2 hours and had 1 beer. Besides riders we had spouses and parents of several riders there. By 7 PM I was back at the hotel. A group was going back to Peddler Brewing for trivia but I did not want to deal with the 4 mile distance. I ended up going to late dinner with Julia at the Old Spaghetti Factory and then straight back to the hotel.
Friday morning I as awake at 6 AM by habit. I got up at 8 AM and after a shower I took my tent to the parking lot to dry out. That took until 9 AM. I went to breakfast and found a shipping company close to the hotel to buy a box and packing tape. After packing up my bike accessories and my camp cook stove I carried the box back to the shipping company for shipment. It tuned our it was more expensive to ship then to take it on the airplane but not enough more to convince me to carry it back to the hotel. Last necessary task was to ship the bike. I took it to Velo Bike Shop 10 blocks from the hotel and had the shipping arranged in less than 20 minutes.
Sharon and I were both flying out on Saturday and we had an afternoon to kill so we rode the ferry to Bremerton and back. It was cheap and the scenery is good. Sharon had a friend meeting her for dinner so I had a fish pot pie on the waterfront before returning to the hotel. We were leaving for the airport at 7 AM the next morning.
So that's it. 4,295 miles in 69 days. I had an amazing time seeing America on a bicycle and I have a new group of friends. Hopefully we can cycle together again soon.
I am so proud of the Bike the US for MS Northern Tier cyclists. 4,295 miles cycled in 69 days. $80,000 raised to help people with MS.
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| Heavy fog concealed the tents in Snohomish |
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| Bicycles piled up outside of Jake's Cafe |
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| Our first view of the Seattle skyline from Gasworks Park |
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| Touching the Space Needle |
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| The Virginia Coalition, Catherine and Frank |
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| 4,295 miles completed with Bike the US for MS |
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| Celebration |
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| Another check presented to the Swedish MS Center of Seattle |
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| Dip tires into the Pacific at completion of Northern Tier trip. |
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| Drying the tent in the Edgewater Hotel parking lot |
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| Mount Rainer from the Bremerton ferry |
Day + 68 August 3, 2016
Darrington, WA to Snohomish, WA 55 miles
This is the last full day of riding on our journey to Seattle and the excitement is building. Last night was my latest night of the trip and I didn't get to bed until 10:30 PM. Everyone was around the campfire. We had S'mores provided by our Route Leaders and several bikers had hot dogs and other camp food. Early in the trip we had several campfire sessions where we went around and told of our favorite part of the day or trip and I was expecting that to happen but it never did. There was quite a bit of beer and hard cider flowing. But I never saw anyone intoxicated during the entire trip.
Since it was only a 55 mile day we were not heading out until 8 AM which meant seeping in until 7 AM. We were under a complete canopy of trees above and everything on the ground that had not been cleared was covered with ferns. The tent and gear were put away and breakfast was Kipper Snacks provided by me and cereal provided by the Route Leaders.
Katie was not ready on time as was normal procedure. Sometimes we waited until she was ready and sometimes we went ahead. Today we waited about 20 minutes. As soon as we left the cover of the campground there was a heavy cloud cover. It made a good picture on the mountains which we stopped to shoot. We are no longer on the Adventure Cycling Association route. We are following Route 530 for 25 miles to Arlington, WA to rest stop 1. It is an easy ride with only a few small hills and it goes by fast. The shoulders range from excellent to not existent but the traffic is not real bad. There is one stretch with construction and a construction worker had placed a stop sign so it stuck out into the shoulder. That was a real hazard that we all had to duck.
We arrived at the rest stop before the van and decided to go into town for breakfast. Sharon originally did not want anything to eat but changed her mind when Katie and I got ours. I had French toast with eggs and bacon. Very good. The van was at the rest stop by the time we returned.
We stayed at the rest stop because Ethan's girlfriend flew in and was going to surprise him there. It was a nice surprise and all of the girls got gushy.
The remainder of the days ride rom the rest stop to camp in Snohomish was on a trail. Chandler joined us. I kept up for about 10 miles before falling behind so I rode the final 20 miles solo. That was no problem as the ride was all on the trail and I slowed down and enjoyed the easier pace. We were staying at the city soccer fields in Snohomish which was less than a mile from the end of the trail.
The soccer fields were a huge open space with nothing but a port-a-potty. I set up my tent and then went with Sharon and Katie to find showers and laundry. We found showers at the aquatic center about a mile away and laundry another 1 1/2 miles. It was close to 5 PM by the time we had finished and walked back to camp.
Most of the group had decided they wanted Thai food. This definitely would not be my choice but I can usually find something that is at least ok. I had pot stickers and Orange Chicken. After dinner we went across the street for ice cream. I will tell you I have had more ice cream in the last 69 days then in the prior 10 years. I just don't eat ice cream very often normally.
Back in camp I went to bed about 10 PM. Shortly after turning in Catherine arrived from the airport. Catherine was a rider that had to leave right after Glacier National Park in Sand Point, ID to start medical school. She is returning for the last day of the ride. I stayed in bed and will greet her in the morning.
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| Our campground last night in the heavy woods |
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| Sharon, Kattie and I have ice cream after laundry |
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| The last team dinner at a Thai restaurant |
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| Heavy clouds obscure the mountain in the early morning near Darrington, WA |
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| Selfie at the campground |
I woke up at 3 AM to the sound of light rain on the tent and had to go to the bathroom. No problem. I grabbed my light and unzipped my tent. 5 steps outside my tent the light died. We are all packed into one small group site and it is pitch black. I was able to feel my way back to the tent. Unfortunately my phone with a light is in the trailer so I am stuck. It was a long 2 hours until there was enough light but I made it. Unfortunately it continued to rain lightly.
We had planned to leave at 8 AM and have breakfast in town. Breakfast in town still was on but the departure was delayed until 9:30 AM. I wore my raincoat and leg warmers and was still cool. Katie and Sharon both just had shorts. Brrrrr.
Right away we had a considerable climb. I usually really hate climbs before warming up but for some reason this one did not bother me. It was only about 10 minutes to the top and then we were rewarded with a descent 20 times as big as the climb. This repeated itself several times. Easy and fun cycling.
The scenery was extraordinary. Towering almost vertical mountains on either side. Lake Diablo to the right with its green iridescent water. Eventually we passed the dam that creates Lake Diablo. Then a very tall waterfall. It was still early so there was little traffic.
We stopped at a general store in Newhalem looking for a restaurant but found out the closest was 14 miles away in Marblemount. We picked up several additional riders for our convoy to Marblemount and the ride there was very fast. I was able to keep up because by this time we were out of the mountains and there were only a few minor hills. I had talked to a couple of security guys in Newhalem and they had recommended a Mondo's to eat and it just happened that it was the only place open. Breakfast was good but very slow.
We were back down to our normal cruising trio of Sharon, Katie and me for the remaining 30 miles. We started off on a backroad for the first 11 miles. No traffic but the surface was very rough. We turned on a more traveled road for the last 19 miles. Nothing much to report. We were along a river part of the way but really not much notable scenery. We are approaching another mountain as we get closer to Darrington but we are not into the hills yet. Only 85 miles to go to Seattle after today with no mountain passes so I suspect we will be skirting this mountain.
We stopped in town at the IGA grocery store since camp is 4 miles out of town and there are no services. I am having fried chicken from the deli and a cherry tart. Camp is at a campground in the big woods. Large campsites and almost no one here.
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| Low clouds over Lake Diablo |
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| A waterfall near Diablo |
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| A little selfie action at Newhalem, WA |
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| Lake Diablo never gets old. |
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| Vertical mountain walls on the descent. |
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| Big spaces in Squire Creek County Park, Darrington, WA |
Another 5:50 AM wakeup for a 7 AM departure. Breakfast was a bagel with peanut butter and jelly. And chocolate milk.
After breakfast I had time to lubricate the bike chain and discovered the bottom bracket was not operating smoothly. Oh well. Nothing I can do with it now. It just has to keep together for 4 more days.
We were out of camp early and stopped at the convenience store a block down the street for ice water. I felt bad that we did not buy anything and the clerk was very nice and helped us with the water.
We left the main highway for a side road for several miles which was nice because there was no traffic. It was 56 degrees when we set out but for some reason it felt much colder. All of our fingers were cold with half gloves. Not to worry since coats were off within 15 miles.
The first rest stop was supposed to be at a store at 19 miles. There was no store or any other business at 19 miles so the rest stop was at the side of the road. Several miles before the rest
stop we had started climbing gently. We filled our water bottles and had a quick snack before pushing on.
The cascades were much more beautiful than the 3 mountains we crossed the previous 3 days. They are almost as grand as the mountains in Glacier National Park. We could see snow at higher elevations but we had a ways to go to get there. The climbing got heavy in a hurry and Sharon pulled away from Katie and myself. I was taking more photos than the others so I was completely in the rear. The climbing was not the steepest we have seen but it was continuous. It was 18 miles to Washington Pass which was all climbing. Each turn produced another mountain to look at. Beautiful. Finally I saw a sign and could read 1/2 mile from the distance and was hoping it was Washington Pass. I was very disappointed when I got closer and it read Washington Recreation Area and was later delighted when Washington Pass appeared 1/2 mile later. As with all of the other passes we had individual photos, group photos, and a rest stop.
We had a real good downhill for about 4 miles and then another climb. This climb took less than a half hour and we were at Rainy Pass. More photos and another rest
stop and we were on our way down. There was 30 miles of mostly downhill interrupted by short level patches. Near the bottom there was less slope and more pedaling. There was a rushing stream along the road for the last 10 miles and finally Lake Diablo which was the most beautiful iridescent green. It was quite a picture nestled in the mountains some which still had a scattering of snow.
We are camping in Colonial Creek Campground right at the base of the mountain. Bike the US for MS has a group site which is tight for 18 campers. Tight like in tents almost touching. There are no services within 10 miles which means everyone is cooking. My cooking was Chef-Boy-R-Dee and cooked carrots from the can. I liked it and there was zero cleanup. Perfect
Tonasket, WA to Winthrop, WA 71 miles.
After I finished my blog yesterday afternoon in the Texas Café in Tonasket a group of us went to a Yoga class. Just by chance Bike the US for MS was in Tonasket 5 years ago when the yoga studio opened. There were free classes and several cyclists attended. Every year since the owner has extended an invitation to Bike the US for MS for free yoga on the yoga studios anniversary. 6 of us attended for a free 90 minute session. It was my first ever yoga and I enjoyed it.
After yoga we went to a Mexican restaurant for dinner. I had taco, enchilada and tamale combination. It was bed right after dinner.
I was up at 5:50 AM for a 7 AM departure. There was a line to the only bathroom but other than that everything was smooth. Breakfast was serial and a banana sitting on a rock by the parking lot. Todays riding companions were Sharon, Katie and myself as has been the norm lately.
We headed straight out of town on US 20 after filling our water bottles at the convenience store. We were supposed to take a side road for a few miles but decided to take the direct route. Rest Stop 1 was in Omak. When we got there we could not find the van so we made our own rest stop at a convenience store. I tanked up on Gatorade and bought extra for the big ride coming up. Also carried and extra bottle of water in my jersey pocket. It turns out the van came right after we did to another convenience store around the corner.
The terrain up to this point had been desert like except in the very few places that were irrigated. There was some alfalfa and that was about it. Most of the land we were riding on was an Indian Reservation and looked very depressed. The convenience store we stopped at was gross it was so dirty.
Leaving Omak there was still very little growing except now there were a few parcels of apples. The mountain road started right outside of Omak but the grade was initially very easy. There was one valley rising up the slope between two mountains that was full of apple orchards and looked very nice in all of the brown.
We had reasoned the night before that this mountain would be much easier since the total distance we had to ride was greater and the number of feet climbed was going to be smaller than a previous mountain. However this assumed that the slope would be even for the entire ascent. This proved not to be the case and we encountered a very steep section about 1 1/2 miles long before it eased up a bit. There were several very tight corners that drivers could not see cyclists which could be a problem if they took the corner tight. Traffic was very light on a Sunday morning and all was well.
I got to the half way point after Sharon but before Katie and just refilled my water bottle before proceeding. At that point there was about 8 more climbing miles to go to the pass. Right after getting back on the road there was a little descent before resuming climbing. That is what giver Loup Loup Pass its name. It took another 90 minutes to crunch out the last 8 miles before pictures and a rest at Loup Loup Pass. I had Fritos and bean dip for my snack. Katie caught up with us about 20 minutes later.
We still had 30 miles to go to camp. It started with a big downhill which I brake liberally. I am always a relatively slow descender and my front wheel is bent like a pretzel from the last 4000 miles. My max speed was 33 mph which is still considerable for an old man on a bicycle. There was still quite a bit of pedaling to do in the first 20 miles until we came to the only open restaurant we could find and stopped for lunch. It was Mexican for the 2nd time in a row which didn't thrill me but it did what it was supposed to do.
The restaurant was extremely slow and we still had 10 miles to go. And we had to pedal those 10 miles with bellies full of tacos in addition to the first headwind we have had in several days. It took 40 minutes to punch out the last 10 miles to camp at KOA in Winthrop, WA.
The tent went up in a hurry and a large group of us went down to the river with lawn chairs to sit in the water. The water was freezing and we did not get more than ankle deep. After 10 minutes your feet were numb so the temperature made no difference. For the first time in 65 days I cooked dinner. I should say I heated up beef stew for dinner. I will accept that as cooking.
Today was the last 70 + mile day of the trip. Tomorrow is the last 60+ mile day and the last mountain pass. Only 4 days to go. Almost time to go home. I am ready.
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| Apple Orchards going up the valley near Omak, WA |
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| Another Pass conquered |
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| Western slope starting to get trees again |
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| Still lots of brown near Twisp, WA where we ate lunch |
Day + 64 July 30,2016
Republic, WA to Tonasket, WA 45 miles
The County Fairground Campground in Republic turned out to be very good accommodations. There were only a couple of other campers there. I was serenaded to sleep by horses and cows and awakened by the roosters. I had some cramps in my lower legs and feet last night. I drank so much water and Gatorade yesterday but apparently still was dehydrated. Yesterdays climb was so hot it was miserable. The van and trailer were leaving at 10 AM since we had a shorter ride but my group decided to leave at 8 AM to try to beat the heat.
Sharon, Katie and I left just a few minutes after 8 AM. We rode on a bike trail for about 3 miles and then through downtown Republic before turning on US 20 to Wauconda Pass. Todays climb to the pass was less than half of yesterdays climb to Sherman Pass at 2000 feet. Another good thing is we had shade in spots on the road to the pass. The climb was about 14 miles and the majority was not too steep. I was real thankful for that since my legs were still fatigued from yesterdays climb. I maintained an easy pace and stopped several times to take pictures. Katie and Sharon beat me to the top by a few minutes.
There was another touring couple at the pass when we arrived. They were also at the Beaver Lodge campground two days past with us. We paused for a break and photos at the pass sign. The van arrived just as we were leaving so we filled water bottles. Supposedly the 25 miles to Tonasket were all down hill.
The last couple of days the trees have been thinning as the climate gets drier. Going up the east side of Wauconda Pass the trees were still relatively thick but as soon as we crested the top there was a marked thinning. Within 10 miles sagebrush started to replace the trees and by the time we got to Tonasket the only place there were trees is the gullies or where there is irrigation.
The 25 miles from the summit to Tonasket was advertised by our route leaders to be all down hill. This was definitely false advertising but it was definitely a fast descent. I would estimate that I did not have to pedal for 50% of the time and most of the rest the pedaling was easy and fast.
We arrived in Tonasket and found our van at the Visitor Center on main street where we will be camping. The good news is that it has restrooms but the bad news is that it has no shade. We set up our tents and then went across the street to Texas Family Diner for lunch. I had a Chef salad and water. After lunch we went to the combination laundry and shower. I have never seen a coin operated shower in a laundry before but it was perfect since I could wash my bike clothes after my shower. The shower was $3.75 for 8 minutes. After the laundry it was back to the Texas Family Diner to keep cool and work on the blog. I will probably be here until it cools down enough to sleep tonight.
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| Interesting moth in the bathroom at Republic, WA |
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| Lots of trees on the eastern slope of Wauconda Pass |
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| 2 passes in 2 days. 2 more to go. |
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| Trees started to thin out as soon as we reached the summit of Wauconda Pass |
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| Near Tonasket it is near desert |
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| Another shot near Konasket |
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| 4000 miles completed on Frank's Great Adventure with Bike the US for MS |
Day + 63 July 29, 20
Beaver Lodge, WA to Republic, WA 87 miles
Wakeup was 5 AM for a 6 AM departure. I was dressed and the tent put away with no issues. Breakfast was banana and a bagel with peanut butter and jelly. It was cold so we started with jackets.
We had Jennifer, Sharon, Katie and myself to start but soon lost Jennifer because she was too fast for us. Katie had to go back because she forgot something. Sharon and I waited for her at Krystal Falls where we took photos. Katie arrived and we were on our way again. It wasn't long before we took off our jackets. Even though it was cold to start the day was forecast to be well over 90.
The van wasn't going to depart until 8 AM so we were at the rest stop point before them. We stopped at a convenience store for drinks and a snack before moving on.
We also missed the van at the second rest stop and we again stopped at a convenience store. I had Gatorade both times plus snacks. This was the last rest stop before climbing Sherman Pass so we took some extra time.
We had numerous hills up to this time but now the climbing was going to get serious. It was 4500 feet of climbing in about 20 miles. Once we turned on US 20 the climb began immediately. At first it was fairly gentle but it soon steepened. The thing that makes Sherman Pass difficult is there really is no rest in the entire ascent. It is always up. I had purchased an extra bottle of Gatorade at the last convenience store and soon it was gone. The temperature was over 90 for the majority of the climb. Fortunately the van stopped to resupply our water. It was right off the road on the left but I did not see it as I rolled by until they called me. I was just focused on the piece of ground 10 feet in front of my wheel. We got resupplied with water again 3 miles from the top.
From the last water fill up it was just mash one pedal after the other. This is the first time I have had to use Granny gear since New York but I definitely needed it. I was soo happy to see the top and the summit sign. They had popsicles and fruit for us. Of course we had to take pictures at the summit sign.
After a rest we started the 20 mile descent. I maintained my speed less than 30 mph and the altitude it took several hours to gain was gone in 45 minutes. We stopped at a café for lunch before heading to camp. I set up my tent and then showered. The showers had free cold water but you had to use quarters to get hot water. Many people just used cold but not me. We went back to the same café for dinner because it was close and good.
We have mountain passes to climb the next 3 days. From the contour map Sherman Pass should be the most difficult but we shall see. Only 6 more days to Seattle.
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| Krystal Falls near Beaver Lodge, WA |
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| A very hard and hot climb to Sherman Pass |
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| On the way down from Sherman Pass to Republic, WA |
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| On the way down from Sherman Pass to Republic, WA |
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| On the way down from Sherman Pass to Republic, WA |
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| Selfie with Sharon and Katie at Krystal Falls, WA early in the morning |
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| At camp in Republic, WA |
Day + 62 July 28, 2016
Newport, WA to Beaver Creek, WA 67 miles
Beaver Creek is not even a town but just a campground. I have WIFI service in the lodge but not cell phone connectivity.
Up at 6 AM, out the door of the First Baptist Church at 7 AM. Breakfast was a muffin, apple and prunes. The day was forecast to be bright and hot and it was. We started out with Katie, Sharon, Jennifer and myself.
The first 52 miles had a few hills but none that were substantial. Traffic was light and there was no wind. We made it to the first rest stop at a rest area beside the rode at mile 23 the same time as the van. It had pit toilets that were so stinky no one used them.
Just after the first rest stop Sharon's shifter cable broke so she had to go back to get it fixed. Vicki joined us but she and Jennifer went on ahead after a couple of minutes. Katie and I stopped for photos. We had followed the Port Oreille river almost straight north for the first 50 miles before crossing it and then stopping at a true country store. I resupplied my snack stock for the climb today and tomorrow.
A mile or two out from the rest stop we turned west on US20 and immediately started the climb. The grade was not so bad but the grade combined with the heat made the climb a challenge. Tomorrow we have a climb three times as big. I fell behind Kattie and Sharon on the climb but caught back up on the flats. The last 8 miles were on a high plateau and our pace was a quick 17-18 mph. I thought this was pretty good after the climb.
Our campsite is at Beaver Lodge. The campsites are rustic but the owner opened up the showers which are normally only open to cabin guests and also allowed us to do laundry. They also have a café which we ate lunch and dinner.
Tomorrow is an 85 mile day with one of our biggest climbs of the trip. The legs will be fine as long as the heat is not too high.
Day + 61 July 27,2016
Sandpoint, ID to Newport, WA 36 miles.
We had a late start since there was only 36 miles on the road this morning. I slept in the racquetball ball court in the Sandpoint West Athletic Club. I am in the habit of getting up early and found myself awake at 5 AM even though I did not have to get up. I just lay in my sleeping bag relaxing until 7 AM. I got ready to go and then cleaned and lubricated my bicycle and was ready to go at 9 AM. We had 6 people in our group that went to the Trinity Restaurant on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. It had a beautiful view on the patio to watch the morning while eating my French toast.
We pulled out of town at 10:39 AM on a bicycle trail for the first few miles. The next couple of miles was on a busy highway that had a good shoulder. After that we turned on a smaller road that had lighter traffic but narrow shoulders. Traffic for the most part was very courteous. The terrain was mostly easy hills with a couple of bigger hills spread out over the 36 miles. The climate is definitely getting dryer every riding day for the last few days. We will soon be in the high desert of western Washington in a couple of days. Much of todays ride was along a lake or river.
We got to Newport Washington before the church we are staying in was available so we first stopped at a drive though coffee and ice cream stand for a milkshake and then went to a nearby restaurant overlooking the river for lunch. I had the 55+ soup and sandwich. The roast beef sandwich was not very good but the cheeseburger soup was very good. After lunch we went to the First Baptist Church where I claimed my sleeping quarters in a Sunday School Room.
Most of the group went to the river for a swim and to cool off. The temperature was in the 90's today. The river water was cold and refreshing. There was a Irish Setter at the river when we got there that kept us occupied playing fetch in the water. When the owners came to get her she did not want to go home and had to be dragged out of the water.
There was no shower at the church so we had a hose shower before going out. On the way to dinner we came across a small dog with a harness and leash wondering around. We could not find the owner so tied the dog to a bench in the shade. I brought water back to it from the restaurant but someone had gotten the dog before I got back to it.
Our group is having movie night in the church. I wasn't interested in the movie plus I didn't want to stay up that late. It is bedtime for me as soon as I have the blog finished.
Tomorrow is a 67 mile day with one substantial but not huge climb.
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| Bicycles parked outside Trinity Restaurant in Sand Point, ID for breakfast |
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| Our view for breakfast at Trinity Restaurant for breakfast in Sand Point, ID |
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| Katie, Julia, me, Vicki, and Jennifer for breakfast at Trinity |
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| Bridge to cross the Port Oerille river near Sand Point, ID |
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| River from the bridge |
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| Time for a little climbing again |
Libby, MT to Sandpoint, MT 97 miles
Montana is finally finished after 13 days and I have mixed emotions. It was my favorite state for cycling but at the same time I am ready to be home again. Montana is so beautiful. Even eastern Montana was beautiful in spite of the winds that would demoralize you. Texas has the motto but they have nothing on Montana. Everything is big in The Big Sky State including the mountains, rivers, lakes, ranches and farms.
Our group agreed to leave this morning from Libby at 6 AM but when my alarm went off at 5 AM and it was still dark I hunkered down for another 20 minutes. Therefore I was not ready until 6:30 AM. I did not know it but some of the riders left as early as 5 AM because this was a 97 mile day with predicted high temps. Katie and I finally left at 6:38 AM.
If you look at a map of Libby you will see that Sandpoint, ID is not that far from Libby. Unfortunately there are some very big mountains in between that you have to go around. The first 50 miles from Libby was basically a huge "V around a mountain.
Just outside of Libby we see a flock of wild turkeys. There was a hen and probably 8 chicks although the chicks were getting good sized. Amazingly they stuck around long enough for me to get some photos. Most of the times I have seen wild turkeys they were gone almost as soon as I spotted them.
Just a few miles later we ran into another rider from this area and she recommend that we stop at Kootenai Falls. The three of us hiked to the falls and they were spectacular. Unfortunately the sun was low in the sky right over the falls which caused poor quality photos. Still it was a nice hike and great view.
The road to rest stop 1 at the 25 mile point was hilly but the grades were manageable so no problems were encountered. The rest stop was at a lone store that unfortunately was closed so I had a bagel with peanut butter and jelly from the cubbie. I like to keep the rest stops short and we were able to keep this one to about 20 minutes.
about 10 miles after leaving rest stop 1 we came across a herd of Big Horn Sheep grazing along side of the road. We immediately stopped to start our GoPro cameras and get our cameras ready. I took a few pictures from a distance and then rode past them with the GoPro running and my phone video running. I should have stopped closer to them to take pictures because I don't think they were frightened by humans. Fortunately our group is sharing pictures and I can get close-ups.
Rest stop 2 was at 50 miles at a small grocery/deli. I had a roast beef and cheese sandwich with chips and drink for only $5 and it was a hefty sandwich. This rest stop was 50 minutes but it included lunch.
We got some really good photos today but there were 3 or 4 times that I wish we had stopped to take a quick shot. Two of those times were on the way to rest stop 3. One was a place that had unrestored antique cars. There was a very old semi with an old Rambler, Model A and some 40's car on the bed that would have made a great shot. The other was a river running through a deep gorge. Of course we had to stop for photos at the Idaho border. Als We were supposed to exit the main highway onto a secondary road but decided to stay on the highway because the secondary road was gravel. To our surprise rest stop 3 was on the main highway. Since there was no cell service we did not get the tweet telling us not to take the exit.
Rest stop 3 was ice cream and Gatorade. It took a half hour so was not too bad. The remaining 18 miles to Sandpoint was along a lake and was fairly flat making the ride quicker than the first 3 segments. Because of the time change to Pacific Standard Time we arrived in Sandpoint at 4:30 PM.
We are staying in the Sandpoint West Athletic Center. It is not ideal because of all of the other activities going on but we will make it work. I am sleeping in a racket ball court. Several people decided to get a motel for the two nights we are here. I went to dinner with Katie, Vicki and Julia to a Thai restaurant. You normally can't get me in a Thai food but everyone else wanted it. I have discovered that Thai sweet and sour chicken is pretty good.
Tomorrow is a rest day only 3 days after the last rest day but the last 3 days have been vigorous cycling in the mountains including 97 miles today.
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| Wild Turkey just west of Libby, Montana |
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| Wild Turkeys just west of Libby, Montana |
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| Kooteenai River west of Libby, Montana |
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| Kooteenai River west of Libby, Montana |
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| Big Horn Sheep near Libby, Montana |
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| Add captionBig Horn Sheep near Libby, Montana |
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| Big Horn Sheep near Libby, Montana |
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| Big Horn Sheep near Libby, Montana |
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| Peregrine Falcon nest in Montana |
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| After 13 days finally completed Montana |
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| Lake Pend Oreille near Sandpoint, ID |
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| Old cars near Sandpoint, Idaho |
Day + 58 July 24, 2016
Eureka, MT to Libby, MT 76 miles
After returning from the rodeo at 11:30 PM last night I discovered the lights in the Lincoln County High School hallway where I had setup camp could not be turned off. Right off the foyer there was a group of folding cafeteria tables so I pulled my sleeping mat under one and used my sleeping bag to block as much light as possible. Just like the Navy you can sleep anywhere if you are tired enough. I must have been tired enough because I went right to sleep. I had planned to get up at 6 AM but did not wake until 6:22.
We had a fairly large group roll out of camp at 7:30 AM but it was just Katie, Alison and me after a few miles and then just Katie and me after the first rest stop. It was 46 degrees so I had on my cycling jacket. It stayed on less than 9 miles. After a couple of hills my body is generating enough heat to keep warm.
We were on the highway out of Eureka for just a few miles before turning on a forest service road. To get on the forest service road we had to cross Lake Koocanusa by bridge. We could see the bridge several miles before the turn but it was shielded by hills as we got near and we thought we had missed it. We stopped and I climbed over the hill and discovered we still had a half mile to go.
Most of the day was spent hugging the shores of Lake Koocanusa. With the lake on one side and mountains on the other it was a beautiful ride. There were no services for the entire 76 mile ride today so we had to carry anything we wanted to eat or drink on the bike or our day cubbies in the van. Rest stop 1 was at a pullout along the lake at mile 24 of the ride. I had an apple and Kipper snacks before heading out. Alison discovered a staple in her tire just as we were leaving so she stayed behind to fix the flat.
Guy and Ethan rode with us for a while. Coming down a big descent Katie stopped and was wildly pulling at her jersey. A bee had flown down her jersey and stung her. The four of us got to rest stop 2 before the van and we decided to wait. It showed up 10 minutes later. I had some peanut butter crackers and a fig bar before heading out. It was just Katie and me for the last 27 miles.
Libby dam creates Lake Koocanusa. There was an overlook for the dam and we stopped for photos. Shortly after the dam we came to the end of the forest service road and crossed to the other side of the rode to pick up an even smaller and less traveled road. The temperature was up to 88 by then and I rode on the wrong side most of the rest of the way to Libby to stay in the shade.
Todays ride definitely was not flat. There were large elevation changes but no steep grades.
We are camping tonight in Libby. There are no showers but the nearby hotel had showers for $5.
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| Lake Koocanusa near Libby, MT |
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| Lake Koocanusa near Libby, MT |
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| Selfie at Lake Koocanusa |
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| Kootenai River near Libby, MT |
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| Libby Dam |
Whitefish, MT to Eureka, MT 66 miles.
I was ready to get back on the road after a rest day in Whitefish, Montana. Katie, Vicki and I started the day with breakfast at Amazing Crepes in Whitefish before heading out.
The road out of town started with a couple of moderate hills that caused me to shed my jacket. We continued into hilly terrain with mountains all around. There seemed to be deer everywhere. It was a short day to Eureka with two rest stops so the pace was easy. Vicki dropped off early in the ride to go to a pottery The first rest stop was in Olney slightly off the road at a country store. It was a very unique store with a little groceries, a little café and a lot of beer. I grabbed a Gatorade and had a snack out of my day cubbie.
Nothing spectacular happened between rest stops. More deer but not much else. The second rest stop was in Fortine. We stopped at a little café that would almost fit into a shoebox. I had an excellent BLT. Everyone said they had excellent food but a long wait. There were only 2 tables in the café plus a couple of picnic tables outside. There was a couple of chickens to amuse anyone that sat outside.
The terrain into Eureka continued to be hilly but not steep.. We continued to see deer frequently. We also saw a large bird and nest but couldn't identify it at the time. We learned later that it was a Peregrine Falcon. We saw several more later on and a sign identifying the bird and nest. Some of them were quite aggressive defending their nest.
We were staying at the Lincoln County High School in Eureka. I setup my sleeping bag in a hallway and took a shower in the locker room before heading to town for grocery shopping. An excellent BBQ dinner was provided by a previous years rider.
The county fair was in progress and we decided to walk to the rodeo. It was just over a mile away. I stayed for the entire rodeo which lasted to just after 11 PM. When we got back to the school I discovered the lights in the hallway could not be turned off. I ended up putting my sleeping pad under a cafeteria table and draping my sleeping bag over it to block as much light as possible.
Day + 56 July 21, 2016
Fish Creek, MT to Whitefish, MT 38 miles
This is a short day so the van was scheduled to depart at noon. Most of the group is going into Apgar for a going away breakfast for Catherine. We left at 10 AM for the short ride into Apgar. There is only one place that serves food so the choice of where to eat was easy. Breakfast was over near 11:30 AM and I headed out with Sharon, Jennifer, Guy and Ethan.
Jennifer said she was not interested in going fast but I had all I could do to keep up with her. Good thing it was only a short ride. We got a little lost in Columbia Falls because the street we needed was not signed. After studying the map we were back on course in under 10 minutes.
In ordinary circumstances we would consider this a spectacular ride but since we just left Glacier National Park it was not as grand as yesterday. Still we had mountains to the east and several lakes and streams. There were a few hills that caused us to slow down but for the most part it was gentle rolling terrain.
The first thing I saw after entering Whitefish was the bicycle shop. I have been looking for unique bicycle jerseys at each shop and had not found any. Today I got a Glacier National Park jersey and a Whitefish jersey. I also picked up a new mirror.
We are staying in Foursquare Christian Church for 2 nights. I claimed a spot in the youth room which has tables and a rocking chair. After a quick shower I did laundry and then had dinner at the Buffalo Café. Dinner was a steak salad and root beer float. Very good.
Tomorrow is a rest day so I will get to sleep in.
This is a short day so the van was scheduled to depart at noon. Most of the group is going into Apgar for a going away breakfast for Catherine. We left at 10 AM for the short ride into Apgar. There is only one place that serves food so the choice of where to eat was easy. Breakfast was over near 11:30 AM and I headed out with Sharon, Jennifer, Guy and Ethan.
Jennifer said she was not interested in going fast but I had all I could do to keep up with her. Good thing it was only a short ride. We got a little lost in Columbia Falls because the street we needed was not signed. After studying the map we were back on course in under 10 minutes.
In ordinary circumstances we would consider this a spectacular ride but since we just left Glacier National Park it was not as grand as yesterday. Still we had mountains to the east and several lakes and streams. There were a few hills that caused us to slow down but for the most part it was gentle rolling terrain.
The first thing I saw after entering Whitefish was the bicycle shop. I have been looking for unique bicycle jerseys at each shop and had not found any. Today I got a Glacier National Park jersey and a Whitefish jersey. I also picked up a new mirror.
We are staying in Foursquare Christian Church for 2 nights. I claimed a spot in the youth room which has tables and a rocking chair. After a quick shower I did laundry and then had dinner at the Buffalo Café. Dinner was a steak salad and root beer float. Very good.
Tomorrow is a rest day so I will get to sleep in.
Whitefish, MT Rest Day
Not much to report today as it was a rest day in Whitefish, MT. We are staying in the Foursquare Christian Church for two nights. I got up at 8 AM since our service project does not start until 9:30 AM. I was going to eat from my food cubbie in the van but got an invitation to go to breakfast. We went to a crepe place and I had the strawberry and chocolate crepe.
We loaded into the vans and headed to our service project. It took longer to get there than expected because we got lost. We had 17 people and not much work to do. I ended up cleaning a fan that was very dirty. When that half hour job was done I basically sat around until a few of us decided to walk to DQ. The big job of the service project was cleaning the carpet and only a couple of people are needed for that. I had a lemon lime slush which was not very good. Our service project hosts served us lunch and then we departed.
When we returned I went shopping for a present for Eliza and shipped it, worked on my blog and then took a nap. For dinner I went to the Buffalo Café and had a burger.
Tomorrow we head north to Eureka, MT. It is about 60 miles.
Goodbye breakfast in Apgar, Montana for Catherine
Day + 54 July 20, 2016
St. Mary, MT to Fish Creek, MT 65 miles
Let me start out by saying this day was the highlight of the trip so far. Better than Bar Harbor, better than Niagara Falls, better than Minneapolis.
I woke up at 4 AM to fierce winds whipping the tent at St. Mary campground in the Glacier National Forest. I was thinking it was not going to be a pleasant ride. By 5:45 AM when I got up the wind had subsided. I heard laughing from near my tent and then don't move. Andrea's tent had collapsed in the wind and she just rolled up in it and went back to sleep. Other people wanted to get a picture before she freed herself. I had a poppy seed muffin, banana and fig bar before putting on sun block. I was ready to go before 7 AM.
Sharon had asked me to ride with her and we left about 5 minutes before seven. The ride into St. Mary had been beautiful and the campground was at the foot of the mountains and next to St. Mary lake. The road we were taking is called Going to the Sun Road and it started right outside the campground.
The first 10 miles from camp hugged St. Mary lake. The waters were a deep blue like you see in the Caribbean Sea. Within the first 5 miles the wind returned with a vengeance turning up whitecaps on the lake and putting thoughts of a difficult ride in my head. There were turnouts every half mile or so and we started a pattern of stopping at almost every one of them for pictures. One of the advantages of cycling is that you can stop almost anywhere else and take pictures. We did that often also.
A few of the younger lads, who I call the testosterone kids, "crushed the mountain" by riding it as fast as they could. I think they robbed themselves of a memory by not experiencing as much as possible. The park service has a rule that cyclists cannot descent past a certain point from 1 to 4 PM. This is for traffic control. One of the testosterone kids ignored the ruled and got a citation and fine as a result.
The road along the lake was almost flat. On a few occasions we had woods between us and the lake. I was hoping this would shield us from the winds and it helped a little but not much. In one of these sections we scared some large animal that crashed into the woods but we didn't see it. All the time the mountains were getting higher and closer. Near the end of the lake there is an island called Goose Island that is featured in many pictures of Glacier National Park. We had several turnouts to film Goose Island and it was really spectacular. This point is before we had climbed more than a few hundred feet. I started the day wearing my light cycling jacket but was working hard against the wind so quickly removed it. The temperature was in the mid fifties when we started.
Once we turned away from the lake we were right next to the mountain which shielded us from the wind most of the time. It was still there and we were blasted from time to time. The road was climbing most of the time now. Periodically the grade would ease which gave us a break. Many of these points had turnouts and we almost always stopped to take pictures. These short breathers really helped. The jacket went back on as the temperature dropped with elevation.
Early in the trip we transited Kancamagus Pass in New Hampshire and I could really tell the difference in my fitness level from then until today. I guess that is what 54 days of bicycle riding will do for you. I was never in "Granny Gear" today. Kancamagus is slightly steeper in sections but it is also much shorter. Plus we did not have any wind for the climb at Kancamagus. We had two small and one large switchbacks which gave us tremendous views. The large switchback also had the steepest grade of the climb. Right after the last switchback we passed a cyclist going the other direction who yelled to us that we were almost there which gave us a boost.
I must say that the cars were especially considerate today and we really appreciated it. We always used the turnouts if there were cars behind us or if traffic was heavy in the other direction so they couldn't pass. Trucks and trailers are not allowed on the Going to the Sun Road which was also a big help.
We stopped at a waterfall near the road for photos. We also stopped at St. Mary waterfall which was a hike from the road and started hiking. We didn't make it to the falls because it was too far for the time we had and turned back.
We could see the summit from about 4 miles back. That gave us a final goal for the climb. I had a regular breathing pattern of one breath for each pedal stroke. I was definitely tired but not close to exhausted like Kancamagus. One of our route leaders was taking pictures as we approached the summit and several of our fellow riders were cheering us on. It was a really good feeling making it to the top of Logan Pass. Another difference from Kancamagus is that I was totally recovered within a few minutes of stopping this time.
At the summit we briefly paused for high fives and went to the Logan Pass sign for pictures. We would return to the sign again for a group pictures before starting the descent. Then it was back to the parking lot for a snack and rest stop. It was quite cold at the summit and I also donned leg warmers. I was still cool but didn't use any energy to add more clothing.
Some people stayed at the summit to hike. Most of us started down about 1:30 PM. Like the ascent the descent had many turnouts which we used. We also stopped several places without turnouts. Descents are the reward for working so hard to get to the top. We had nearly 20 miles without having to pedal. We were able to go as fast as the cars and in fact several cars waved us past them. The only issue with the descent is that we had a strong cross wind occasionally which I had to be ready to counteract. I am one of the slower cyclist of the group on descents but most of the time I just kept pace with the cars in front of me. At the first turnout the temperature had risen so the jacket and leg warmers came off.
When I got to a point where I had to pedal again the legs did not want to cooperate. They had worked hard all morning and then had 20 miles with no climbing. They felt like lead and fortunately we only had a couple miles before stopping. We stopped at the parking lot for Avalanche Lake and hiked for a couple of miles. The legs were surprisingly recovered after the hike and I had a fast ride the last 15 miles to camp with Ethan and Guy
Our camp was at Fish Creek Campground near the village of Apgar, Montana. It is still in Glacier National Park. The campsites were not quite as nice as St. Mary campground. The facilities were identical but not nearly as convenient. Our camp sites were right on Lake McDonald. It was beautiful with the lake and mountains in the background.
Tomorrow is a short ride so we will be starting late.
Let me start out by saying this day was the highlight of the trip so far. Better than Bar Harbor, better than Niagara Falls, better than Minneapolis.
I woke up at 4 AM to fierce winds whipping the tent at St. Mary campground in the Glacier National Forest. I was thinking it was not going to be a pleasant ride. By 5:45 AM when I got up the wind had subsided. I heard laughing from near my tent and then don't move. Andrea's tent had collapsed in the wind and she just rolled up in it and went back to sleep. Other people wanted to get a picture before she freed herself. I had a poppy seed muffin, banana and fig bar before putting on sun block. I was ready to go before 7 AM.
Sharon had asked me to ride with her and we left about 5 minutes before seven. The ride into St. Mary had been beautiful and the campground was at the foot of the mountains and next to St. Mary lake. The road we were taking is called Going to the Sun Road and it started right outside the campground.
The first 10 miles from camp hugged St. Mary lake. The waters were a deep blue like you see in the Caribbean Sea. Within the first 5 miles the wind returned with a vengeance turning up whitecaps on the lake and putting thoughts of a difficult ride in my head. There were turnouts every half mile or so and we started a pattern of stopping at almost every one of them for pictures. One of the advantages of cycling is that you can stop almost anywhere else and take pictures. We did that often also.
A few of the younger lads, who I call the testosterone kids, "crushed the mountain" by riding it as fast as they could. I think they robbed themselves of a memory by not experiencing as much as possible. The park service has a rule that cyclists cannot descent past a certain point from 1 to 4 PM. This is for traffic control. One of the testosterone kids ignored the ruled and got a citation and fine as a result.
The road along the lake was almost flat. On a few occasions we had woods between us and the lake. I was hoping this would shield us from the winds and it helped a little but not much. In one of these sections we scared some large animal that crashed into the woods but we didn't see it. All the time the mountains were getting higher and closer. Near the end of the lake there is an island called Goose Island that is featured in many pictures of Glacier National Park. We had several turnouts to film Goose Island and it was really spectacular. This point is before we had climbed more than a few hundred feet. I started the day wearing my light cycling jacket but was working hard against the wind so quickly removed it. The temperature was in the mid fifties when we started.
Once we turned away from the lake we were right next to the mountain which shielded us from the wind most of the time. It was still there and we were blasted from time to time. The road was climbing most of the time now. Periodically the grade would ease which gave us a break. Many of these points had turnouts and we almost always stopped to take pictures. These short breathers really helped. The jacket went back on as the temperature dropped with elevation.
Early in the trip we transited Kancamagus Pass in New Hampshire and I could really tell the difference in my fitness level from then until today. I guess that is what 54 days of bicycle riding will do for you. I was never in "Granny Gear" today. Kancamagus is slightly steeper in sections but it is also much shorter. Plus we did not have any wind for the climb at Kancamagus. We had two small and one large switchbacks which gave us tremendous views. The large switchback also had the steepest grade of the climb. Right after the last switchback we passed a cyclist going the other direction who yelled to us that we were almost there which gave us a boost.
I must say that the cars were especially considerate today and we really appreciated it. We always used the turnouts if there were cars behind us or if traffic was heavy in the other direction so they couldn't pass. Trucks and trailers are not allowed on the Going to the Sun Road which was also a big help.
We stopped at a waterfall near the road for photos. We also stopped at St. Mary waterfall which was a hike from the road and started hiking. We didn't make it to the falls because it was too far for the time we had and turned back.
We could see the summit from about 4 miles back. That gave us a final goal for the climb. I had a regular breathing pattern of one breath for each pedal stroke. I was definitely tired but not close to exhausted like Kancamagus. One of our route leaders was taking pictures as we approached the summit and several of our fellow riders were cheering us on. It was a really good feeling making it to the top of Logan Pass. Another difference from Kancamagus is that I was totally recovered within a few minutes of stopping this time.
At the summit we briefly paused for high fives and went to the Logan Pass sign for pictures. We would return to the sign again for a group pictures before starting the descent. Then it was back to the parking lot for a snack and rest stop. It was quite cold at the summit and I also donned leg warmers. I was still cool but didn't use any energy to add more clothing.
Some people stayed at the summit to hike. Most of us started down about 1:30 PM. Like the ascent the descent had many turnouts which we used. We also stopped several places without turnouts. Descents are the reward for working so hard to get to the top. We had nearly 20 miles without having to pedal. We were able to go as fast as the cars and in fact several cars waved us past them. The only issue with the descent is that we had a strong cross wind occasionally which I had to be ready to counteract. I am one of the slower cyclist of the group on descents but most of the time I just kept pace with the cars in front of me. At the first turnout the temperature had risen so the jacket and leg warmers came off.
When I got to a point where I had to pedal again the legs did not want to cooperate. They had worked hard all morning and then had 20 miles with no climbing. They felt like lead and fortunately we only had a couple miles before stopping. We stopped at the parking lot for Avalanche Lake and hiked for a couple of miles. The legs were surprisingly recovered after the hike and I had a fast ride the last 15 miles to camp with Ethan and Guy
Our camp was at Fish Creek Campground near the village of Apgar, Montana. It is still in Glacier National Park. The campsites were not quite as nice as St. Mary campground. The facilities were identical but not nearly as convenient. Our camp sites were right on Lake McDonald. It was beautiful with the lake and mountains in the background.
Tomorrow is a short ride so we will be starting late.
Saint Mary Lake at the bottom of Going to the Sun Road.
Having a great time cycling in Glacier National Park
Goose Island in Saint Mary Lake.
One of many waterfalls in Glacier National Park
The views just keep getting better and better
On the way down on Going to the Sun Road
Still having a good time
On the way down
Celebrating the climb.
Day + 53 July 19, 2016
Cut Bank, MT to St, Mary, MT 66 miles
This will be the first day in the mountains since leaving New England which is very exciting. Glacier National Park is expected to be the highlight of the trip.
Sharon asked me to ride with her today and we agreed on a 8 AM departure time. However we were both ready at 7:30 and decided to go. It was about a mile through town back to our familiar but not always loved US 2. Once on US 2 at the edge of town we had 2 moderate climbs on cold muscles to get us going. After those 2 climbs it was practically flat for 10 miles. Then we had a few gentle hills until rest stop 1 at 22 miles. The wind was very low for the first 14 miles and then started to build and was a substantial 15-20 mph headwind by the time we got to the rest stop. As the wind increased our speed decreased until I was struggling to maintain 9 mph by the time we got to the rest stop. We got to the rest stop before the van and decided to wait.
The next 26 miles to rest stop 2 was miserable with a heavy headwind. There were more hills by then which were not bad but combined with the wind it was difficult riding. The rest stop was at Aspenwood which was another 1 building town. The building was a café/ice cream parlor which was closed. The excitement at the rest stop was several free range horses that crossed the road at the rest stop.
Rest Stop 2 was at the edge of the mountains. We had 3 substantial climbs to get to St. Mary. The good thing is the mountains shielded us from the wind some of the time making this section of the day much more enjoyable. The views started out good at rest stop 2 and were fantastic by the time we got to St Mary. We had many stops for photos. The last descent into St. Mary was several miles long and a big relief to tired legs.
At St Mary we stopped at a café and I had a huge sub named Mount Cleveland. I really didn't have a meal after breakfast and it was very good. However I was hungry an hour later and went out for a vege wrap and pie later.
We arer camping in Glacier National Forest Campground right in the mountains. It has clean bathrooms with showers which is always appreciated. It is about a half mile from St. Mary. We have to take all bear precautions.
Tomorrow is the big climb to Logan Pass and then descent to camp on the west side of the mountains. It should be a great day.
This will be the first day in the mountains since leaving New England which is very exciting. Glacier National Park is expected to be the highlight of the trip.
Sharon asked me to ride with her today and we agreed on a 8 AM departure time. However we were both ready at 7:30 and decided to go. It was about a mile through town back to our familiar but not always loved US 2. Once on US 2 at the edge of town we had 2 moderate climbs on cold muscles to get us going. After those 2 climbs it was practically flat for 10 miles. Then we had a few gentle hills until rest stop 1 at 22 miles. The wind was very low for the first 14 miles and then started to build and was a substantial 15-20 mph headwind by the time we got to the rest stop. As the wind increased our speed decreased until I was struggling to maintain 9 mph by the time we got to the rest stop. We got to the rest stop before the van and decided to wait.
The next 26 miles to rest stop 2 was miserable with a heavy headwind. There were more hills by then which were not bad but combined with the wind it was difficult riding. The rest stop was at Aspenwood which was another 1 building town. The building was a café/ice cream parlor which was closed. The excitement at the rest stop was several free range horses that crossed the road at the rest stop.
Rest Stop 2 was at the edge of the mountains. We had 3 substantial climbs to get to St. Mary. The good thing is the mountains shielded us from the wind some of the time making this section of the day much more enjoyable. The views started out good at rest stop 2 and were fantastic by the time we got to St Mary. We had many stops for photos. The last descent into St. Mary was several miles long and a big relief to tired legs.
At St Mary we stopped at a café and I had a huge sub named Mount Cleveland. I really didn't have a meal after breakfast and it was very good. However I was hungry an hour later and went out for a vege wrap and pie later.
We arer camping in Glacier National Forest Campground right in the mountains. It has clean bathrooms with showers which is always appreciated. It is about a half mile from St. Mary. We have to take all bear precautions.
Tomorrow is the big climb to Logan Pass and then descent to camp on the west side of the mountains. It should be a great day.
Day + 52 July 18, 2016
Chester, MT to Cutbank, MT 65 miles
Breakfast was on the steps of the church but wasn't vey satisfying. Bagel with peanut butter and prunes. The prunes were good.
I left with Jennifer at 7:30 AM but stopped to take a video of a train and didn't catch up with her until the 1st rest stop. We were on US 2 all day again which means some places the road was good with wide shoulders and some places not so good. Fortunately the places with not so good shoulders we had light traffic.
Cycling today was pleasant with a slight tail wind. The temperature was warmer than the last few days but that is ok. Still not real hot. I took extra care putting on sun screen today since I missed a little band on my left arm yesterday and I can feel it.
First rest stop was at Devon. There was one abandoned falling down building and nothing else. I ate my last apple at the rest stop and then headed out.
Shortly after the rest stop we stopped to watch antelope close to the road. The terrain had many more hills today but most were gentle so no complaints. Jennifer is much faster on the hills than I am so we soon separated until Rest Stop 2 in Shelby. Shelby had a nice descent into town which was nice. We were both ahead of the van. Jennifer had stopped at a convenience store and I followed. I had Raisin Bran and milk for a snack before heading out.
When you descend into a town you usually have to climb out of it and Shelby was no exception. The climb was much gentler than the descent which was nice. There was track work on the railroad which had trains backed up west of Shelby for over 5 miles. The last 23 miles to Cutbank went by quickly with no other distractions.
We are staying at Cutbank Community Bible church. It is more of a youth camp than a church facility and it very nice. I had lunch with Sharon at a Café and then a quick shopping trip to Albertsons.
Tonight we have a team meeting to talk about our route through Glacier National Park. The maps are confusing and I certainly need some guidance. Tomorrow we cycle to Saint Mary which is at the east entrance to the park. Then over the summit the next day.
Breakfast was on the steps of the church but wasn't vey satisfying. Bagel with peanut butter and prunes. The prunes were good.
I left with Jennifer at 7:30 AM but stopped to take a video of a train and didn't catch up with her until the 1st rest stop. We were on US 2 all day again which means some places the road was good with wide shoulders and some places not so good. Fortunately the places with not so good shoulders we had light traffic.
Cycling today was pleasant with a slight tail wind. The temperature was warmer than the last few days but that is ok. Still not real hot. I took extra care putting on sun screen today since I missed a little band on my left arm yesterday and I can feel it.
First rest stop was at Devon. There was one abandoned falling down building and nothing else. I ate my last apple at the rest stop and then headed out.
Shortly after the rest stop we stopped to watch antelope close to the road. The terrain had many more hills today but most were gentle so no complaints. Jennifer is much faster on the hills than I am so we soon separated until Rest Stop 2 in Shelby. Shelby had a nice descent into town which was nice. We were both ahead of the van. Jennifer had stopped at a convenience store and I followed. I had Raisin Bran and milk for a snack before heading out.
When you descend into a town you usually have to climb out of it and Shelby was no exception. The climb was much gentler than the descent which was nice. There was track work on the railroad which had trains backed up west of Shelby for over 5 miles. The last 23 miles to Cutbank went by quickly with no other distractions.
We are staying at Cutbank Community Bible church. It is more of a youth camp than a church facility and it very nice. I had lunch with Sharon at a Café and then a quick shopping trip to Albertsons.
Tonight we have a team meeting to talk about our route through Glacier National Park. The maps are confusing and I certainly need some guidance. Tomorrow we cycle to Saint Mary which is at the east entrance to the park. Then over the summit the next day.
Rest stop at Devon, Montana
Only 99 to Glacier
Another example of mistreating the Indians
Day + 51 July 17, 2016
Havre, MT to Chester, MT 60 miles
Another day, another 60 miles closer to Seattle. We reached a milestone today and have less than 1000 miles to go which is good since the legs are getting a little fatigued. We were warned this would happen during this part of the adventure but it doesn't make the pedaling any easier. Only 4 more days to Whitefish and a rest day. Hopefully that will help.
We got to sleep in a little this morning as the First Presbyterian Church prepared breakfast for us. I was up and 6:30 AM and ready to leave right after breakfast. Thank you for the fabulous breakfast.
It was only 51 degrees when we got up but was over 60 by the time we pulled out. The sky was clear and the wind is a headwind but light.
I left with Jennifer but at the edge of Havre I spotted and Walmart and dropped off to shop. I took my bike into Walmart because I didn't have a lock with me and no one had an issue with it. I got 2 tubes of Neutrogena 100+ sun screen and new earbuds to replace the ones that got caught in my chain 2 days earlier. Neutrogena 100+ sun screen is fantastic. It is not oily and works terrific. Most days I only put it on once. Of course it is a little pricey.
After a half hour at Walmart I was on my own to rest stop 1 in Gildford, Montana at 29 miles. It was not a bad ride and the wind was minimal but I really don't like riding solo. And no music because the Ipod was in the day cubby. There was a fairly big but gentle sloped hill to leave town and then gentle rolling hills the rest of the day. The road shoulder was wide enough but you could not ride on it because of the rumble strips. Fortunately the Sunday morning traffic was light and most drivers were courteous. I had one guy honk at me and give me the one finger salute but there were a lot more encouraging honks and waves.
It seems more and more people are riding solo as they get comfortable navigating and secure in their cycling ability. This allows you to leave when you want and ride at your own pace. I just tend to get bored when riding alone. The music helps but still the days drags at times.
At the rest stop I retrieved the Ipod and had an apple before departing. It was a short stop.
The second leg to Iverness was not as pleasant as the wind picked up. Fortunately it was only 18 miles and the road shoulder was hugely better and would stay that way all the way to Chester. Montana already is my favorite state for scenery and I know it is going to get significantly better as we move west. We can see our first mountains a long distance to the west which I know we will soon be climbing. We had lunch at a bar which was the only open business in Iverness and then posed for pictures with a poster celebrating 1000 miles left in the trip.
1000 miles may seem a lot to cycle but it is less than 25% of our total mileage. And only 18 more days. This group has worked so hard together and shared so many adventures it will be hard to finish and split up. But it will be good to give this old body some rest.
The wheat farms here are enormous. I see single fields that are over a mile long and you cannot see across them. I saw one farmstead that had close to 40 grain bins all in a row. We were hoping to see wheat being harvested but I think we may be a little early. I did see a couple of combine caravans today but we will not be in wheat country much longer.
The ride from rest stop 2 to Chester was only 13 miles and had some down hills so it went quickly. I rounded a corner at the top of the hill and I could see Chester. However we are in Big Sky Country and you can see a long ways. It turned out Chester was still 6.4 miles away.
Just before Chester there was a historical marker telling about the mountains I was seeing all day. They are called the Sweet Grass Hills and were important to the Blackfoot Indians as a place to monitor there hunting grounds and also to watch for trespassers.
Tonight we are stay in Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Chester, Montana. I clamed a spot on the floor in the hall and then went to the town pool for a shower. Half of pool showers are unheated but this one was nice and warm. Back from my shower I got my dirty clothes together for a trip to the laundromat and then dinner on the way back.
Another day, another 60 miles closer to Seattle. We reached a milestone today and have less than 1000 miles to go which is good since the legs are getting a little fatigued. We were warned this would happen during this part of the adventure but it doesn't make the pedaling any easier. Only 4 more days to Whitefish and a rest day. Hopefully that will help.
We got to sleep in a little this morning as the First Presbyterian Church prepared breakfast for us. I was up and 6:30 AM and ready to leave right after breakfast. Thank you for the fabulous breakfast.
It was only 51 degrees when we got up but was over 60 by the time we pulled out. The sky was clear and the wind is a headwind but light.
I left with Jennifer but at the edge of Havre I spotted and Walmart and dropped off to shop. I took my bike into Walmart because I didn't have a lock with me and no one had an issue with it. I got 2 tubes of Neutrogena 100+ sun screen and new earbuds to replace the ones that got caught in my chain 2 days earlier. Neutrogena 100+ sun screen is fantastic. It is not oily and works terrific. Most days I only put it on once. Of course it is a little pricey.
After a half hour at Walmart I was on my own to rest stop 1 in Gildford, Montana at 29 miles. It was not a bad ride and the wind was minimal but I really don't like riding solo. And no music because the Ipod was in the day cubby. There was a fairly big but gentle sloped hill to leave town and then gentle rolling hills the rest of the day. The road shoulder was wide enough but you could not ride on it because of the rumble strips. Fortunately the Sunday morning traffic was light and most drivers were courteous. I had one guy honk at me and give me the one finger salute but there were a lot more encouraging honks and waves.
It seems more and more people are riding solo as they get comfortable navigating and secure in their cycling ability. This allows you to leave when you want and ride at your own pace. I just tend to get bored when riding alone. The music helps but still the days drags at times.
At the rest stop I retrieved the Ipod and had an apple before departing. It was a short stop.
The second leg to Iverness was not as pleasant as the wind picked up. Fortunately it was only 18 miles and the road shoulder was hugely better and would stay that way all the way to Chester. Montana already is my favorite state for scenery and I know it is going to get significantly better as we move west. We can see our first mountains a long distance to the west which I know we will soon be climbing. We had lunch at a bar which was the only open business in Iverness and then posed for pictures with a poster celebrating 1000 miles left in the trip.
1000 miles may seem a lot to cycle but it is less than 25% of our total mileage. And only 18 more days. This group has worked so hard together and shared so many adventures it will be hard to finish and split up. But it will be good to give this old body some rest.
The wheat farms here are enormous. I see single fields that are over a mile long and you cannot see across them. I saw one farmstead that had close to 40 grain bins all in a row. We were hoping to see wheat being harvested but I think we may be a little early. I did see a couple of combine caravans today but we will not be in wheat country much longer.
The ride from rest stop 2 to Chester was only 13 miles and had some down hills so it went quickly. I rounded a corner at the top of the hill and I could see Chester. However we are in Big Sky Country and you can see a long ways. It turned out Chester was still 6.4 miles away.
Just before Chester there was a historical marker telling about the mountains I was seeing all day. They are called the Sweet Grass Hills and were important to the Blackfoot Indians as a place to monitor there hunting grounds and also to watch for trespassers.
Tonight we are stay in Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Chester, Montana. I clamed a spot on the floor in the hall and then went to the town pool for a shower. Half of pool showers are unheated but this one was nice and warm. Back from my shower I got my dirty clothes together for a trip to the laundromat and then dinner on the way back.
Grain Bins all in a row at a farm near Iverness, Montana
A dinosaur statue near Havre, Montana
An old church in Iverness, Montana
We are now under 1000 miles to Seattle. Iverness, Montana
The Sweet Grass Hills sacred to the Blackfoot Indians
Day + 50 July 16, 2016
Malta, MT to Havre, MT 90 miles
Contrary to what we usually do on a long day we started a little later because breakfast was donated by Ray J's Barbeque starting at 7:30 AM. I was there ready to start eating 15 minutes early and he was already serving. Breakfast was buffet style and included pancakes, sausages, cheesy hash browns and drinks. Very good and Ray deserves a big thank you for hosting Bike the US for MS every year.
I started the ride with Catherine, Katie and Allison. This combo lasted until the first rest stop at Dodson. The pace was very fast with no wind. The first rest stop at 18 miles came fast and we didn't stay very long. Very unusual for this group.
The group started to splinter going into the second rest stop at Harlem, Montana at 49 miles. Alison was way behind the group at this point. The second rest stop was at a gas station/convenience store just after we exited an Indian Reservation. It was near lunch time and most people ate. I had a meat and potato burrito and Gatorade.
I made the huge mistake of waiting for Catherine, Katie and Alison before proceeding. It took the Chatty Cathies forever to get ready. I stopped to take some photos soon after leaving the rest stop and then had to stop to take my jacket off so I was riding alone anyway. If I had left when I was ready I would be miles ahead.
At about mile 60 a train passed and I got the Engineer to blow his horn. Just as I gave him the thumbs up I hear the whish, whish, whish that can only mean a flat tire. When inspecting the tire I discovered a cut in the tread that went all the way through which means new tire time. This tire was put on in Montana and is less than a week old. To get me through the day I put a patch on the tire, inserted a new tube and pumped it up. It was about 15 minutes total.
It took another 45 minutes to get to Chinook, Montana and rest stop 3 at an ice cream store. I had a quick chocolate shake and was on my way. I had learned my lesson earlier. I would much rather ride in a group but I am done waiting an hour when I am ready to go.
The last 45 miles from rest stop 2 on was a real grind due to the 15 mph headwinds. The last 21 miles from rest stop 3 were a real grind. I rode the first 11 miles, took a small break and then finished the ride. We did catch a break with the weather. Most of the day was overcast and there were forecasts for showers at various times along our route. The showers never materialized although there were a lot of thunderheads and showers around us.
I pulled into Havre around 5 PM and made a quick stop at the bike shop. I wanted to check if they had Gatorskin tires because I have had about enough of the free junk we have been supplied with. No luck. I found the First Presbyterian Church with no problem and claimed by camping spot in the basement. The church did not have shower but they arranged for a room at a local hotel for showers. It was about a 10 block walk and I combined the shower run with dinner. Dinner was taco salad and peach pie.
After returning to the church I got a new tire and tube from the route leader and installed them. When inflating the tire the tube burst so I got to do it all over again.
While installing the tire I got to meet our new rider, Guy, who happens to be Ethan's father.
Tomorrow's ride is only 61 miles. The forecast is for headwinds but not as strong as today.
Contrary to what we usually do on a long day we started a little later because breakfast was donated by Ray J's Barbeque starting at 7:30 AM. I was there ready to start eating 15 minutes early and he was already serving. Breakfast was buffet style and included pancakes, sausages, cheesy hash browns and drinks. Very good and Ray deserves a big thank you for hosting Bike the US for MS every year.
I started the ride with Catherine, Katie and Allison. This combo lasted until the first rest stop at Dodson. The pace was very fast with no wind. The first rest stop at 18 miles came fast and we didn't stay very long. Very unusual for this group.
The group started to splinter going into the second rest stop at Harlem, Montana at 49 miles. Alison was way behind the group at this point. The second rest stop was at a gas station/convenience store just after we exited an Indian Reservation. It was near lunch time and most people ate. I had a meat and potato burrito and Gatorade.
I made the huge mistake of waiting for Catherine, Katie and Alison before proceeding. It took the Chatty Cathies forever to get ready. I stopped to take some photos soon after leaving the rest stop and then had to stop to take my jacket off so I was riding alone anyway. If I had left when I was ready I would be miles ahead.
At about mile 60 a train passed and I got the Engineer to blow his horn. Just as I gave him the thumbs up I hear the whish, whish, whish that can only mean a flat tire. When inspecting the tire I discovered a cut in the tread that went all the way through which means new tire time. This tire was put on in Montana and is less than a week old. To get me through the day I put a patch on the tire, inserted a new tube and pumped it up. It was about 15 minutes total.
It took another 45 minutes to get to Chinook, Montana and rest stop 3 at an ice cream store. I had a quick chocolate shake and was on my way. I had learned my lesson earlier. I would much rather ride in a group but I am done waiting an hour when I am ready to go.
The last 45 miles from rest stop 2 on was a real grind due to the 15 mph headwinds. The last 21 miles from rest stop 3 were a real grind. I rode the first 11 miles, took a small break and then finished the ride. We did catch a break with the weather. Most of the day was overcast and there were forecasts for showers at various times along our route. The showers never materialized although there were a lot of thunderheads and showers around us.
I pulled into Havre around 5 PM and made a quick stop at the bike shop. I wanted to check if they had Gatorskin tires because I have had about enough of the free junk we have been supplied with. No luck. I found the First Presbyterian Church with no problem and claimed by camping spot in the basement. The church did not have shower but they arranged for a room at a local hotel for showers. It was about a 10 block walk and I combined the shower run with dinner. Dinner was taco salad and peach pie.
After returning to the church I got a new tire and tube from the route leader and installed them. When inflating the tire the tube burst so I got to do it all over again.
While installing the tire I got to meet our new rider, Guy, who happens to be Ethan's father.
Tomorrow's ride is only 61 miles. The forecast is for headwinds but not as strong as today.
Overcast most of the day. This is near Harlem, Montana
Later in the day it started to clear. This is near Chinook, Montana
Yard art in Havre, Montana
Day + 49 July 15, 2016
Glasgow, MT to Malta, MT 71 miles
First let me mention Anne Davis, the William and Mary graduate that was killed in a bicycle accident in Idaho while riding for another charity. One of our riders was friends with her. It is very sad when something like that happens. Our group talks safety every day and we try to ride defensively all of the time.
I slept like a baby in the nursery of Calvary Baptist Church in Glasgow, MT last night. Reveille was 6 AM for a 7 AM start but I was up before the alarm went off. I had yogurt and blackberries at the church and then breakfast at McDonalds on the way out of town.
It was the perfect day for cycling. Clear, cool and just a slight tailwind started the day. I was biking with Julia so the pace was easy. We had several stops for photos early in the day for dinosaur statues, trains and horses.
The horses were especially entertaining. They came up to the fence as we biked by so we stopped and went over to the fence. There was a herd of about 15 and they all wanted attention. I would say we liked the attention as much as they did. I took several selfies with them.
My earbud dropped down into my chain which was a disaster for the earbuds. It took about 10 minutes to unwrap them from the rear axle and derailleur. No more music until I can buy another pair.
The first rest stop in Lindsay, MT at the 29 mile point was very pleasant. There was a little shop that sold drinks, ice cream and sandwiches that was very nice. I had a lemonade and cookie.
There was no stopping for photos. It seemed we were at the second rest stop at 60 miles in no time.
The second rest stop was at the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. At our rest stops we have chairs, food and drink from our day cubbies, and a cooler so we have the essentials no matter where we stop. This rest stop was fairly long and most of the riders showed while we were there.
First let me mention Anne Davis, the William and Mary graduate that was killed in a bicycle accident in Idaho while riding for another charity. One of our riders was friends with her. It is very sad when something like that happens. Our group talks safety every day and we try to ride defensively all of the time.
I slept like a baby in the nursery of Calvary Baptist Church in Glasgow, MT last night. Reveille was 6 AM for a 7 AM start but I was up before the alarm went off. I had yogurt and blackberries at the church and then breakfast at McDonalds on the way out of town.
It was the perfect day for cycling. Clear, cool and just a slight tailwind started the day. I was biking with Julia so the pace was easy. We had several stops for photos early in the day for dinosaur statues, trains and horses.
The horses were especially entertaining. They came up to the fence as we biked by so we stopped and went over to the fence. There was a herd of about 15 and they all wanted attention. I would say we liked the attention as much as they did. I took several selfies with them.
My earbud dropped down into my chain which was a disaster for the earbuds. It took about 10 minutes to unwrap them from the rear axle and derailleur. No more music until I can buy another pair.
The first rest stop in Lindsay, MT at the 29 mile point was very pleasant. There was a little shop that sold drinks, ice cream and sandwiches that was very nice. I had a lemonade and cookie.
There was no stopping for photos. It seemed we were at the second rest stop at 60 miles in no time.
The second rest stop was at the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. At our rest stops we have chairs, food and drink from our day cubbies, and a cooler so we have the essentials no matter where we stop. This rest stop was fairly long and most of the riders showed while we were there.
There was an alternate route through a wildlife preserve we decided to take even though the roads were gravel. The riding was tough and the only wildlife I saw was a butterfly so I guess you could say it was a bust. After the wildlife preserve we only had a few miles to camp and it went quickly.
Camp is a city park. It has restrooms but no showers. After setting up my tent I took a hose shower which was very invigorating. After dressing I went to RayJ's barbeque with Chandler and Ethan and had fantastic pulled pork. We are fortunate that it is good since they are donating our dinner and breakfast tomorrow.
Tomorrows ride is 91 miles with a chance of rain. We have been very lucky up to this point with the weather and I hope that luck continues.
Road to the Wildlife MT
Day + 47 July 13,2016
Glendive, MT to Wolf Point, MT 104 miles
What a day. A big thank you is due to the Zion Lutheran Church which allowed us to stay in the church. It was a perfect facility for us with showers and enough rooms for everyone to have a private space. I stayed in an office that had a recliner. Perfect. Breakfast was muscle milk, banana and 6 inch Subway Italian BMT.
Departure time was 5 AM because we had a 100 mile day with strong headwinds. I started off with Sharon and Jennifer but could only keep up with them for about 10 miles. The rest of the day was riding solo. I prefer group rides but you make the best of the situation presented to you.
The wind to the first rest stop was only about 10 mph right on the head. Tiring but manageable. The first rest stop was at a closed store in Lindsay, MT at the 24 mile point. I was ahead of the van so stopped for a quick snack and drink. Sharon and Jennifer were at the rest stop. We were confronted by a huge dog but he was all bluster and never came close. He finally gave up and left. Sharon and Jennifer left before me and Angela pulled in just as I was leaving. Angela left camp at 4:30 AM. Wow.
The second portion of the ride to the rest stop at Circle, MT was the hardest of the day. It was another 25 miles straight into a strengthening headwind. I was only going 7-8 mph on many of the hills. This rest stop was my longest of the day but I still kept it to about 20 minutes. I had a Gatorade and Milky Way. Rest stop 2 would be the last time I would see any other riders until pulling into camp.
The course from rest stop 2 turned almost straight north. Since the wind was from the northwest it was a little better than dead ahead and my speed increased quite a bit. This was good because this was the longest segment at 30 miles. I had a flat on my front tire and noticed the tire was completely worn out. I will change it at the first opportunity. We also passed the 3000 mile mark on this segment.
An extraordinary thing happened about 10 miles from the rest stop. I was on a little flat before a hill when a pickup crested the hill and immediately slowed. The driver rolled down his window and was holding something out the window. I thought he was going to give me water or a snack. That has happened several times during the trip. Instead he handed me a $100 dollar bill and wished me a safe ride. I said we were raising money for MS and he said he knew and drove off. Wow! I was extremely excited the rest of the way to the rest stop. I have gotten lots of donations on the trip but never one this large. The spontaneous donations we receive has to be my favorite part of the trip. Sometimes the donations aren't money and they are just as special. We have gotten water, Gatorade, watermelon, fruit and others.
Rest stop 3 was my lunch stop and I had a quick lunch of Gatorade, prunes and half a bagel. There was also a nice big lab to play with.
The last segment continued the same as before until the last 10 miles. Strengthening wind but not a direct head wind. About 15 miles from the end there was a brief shower.. I quickly donned my rain gear and just as quickly removed it when the shower was over. As soon as the shower passed the wind died completely. It was so nice but unfortunately did not last. When it did come back it was strong and a direct headwind making the last 10 miles difficult. Some wise ass in a semi decided he needed to give me a truck shower even though there was no traffic coming from the other direction.
I crossed the Missouri River which had quite a current and completed the last 6 difficult miles to camp. The legs were getting tired and the wind was the strongest of the day. I entered Wolf Point and made my way to the town park, set up the tent and had a shower at the pool.. I thought there was only cold water for the shower and only discovered at the end that it was warm if I had let it run.
Today we saw deer, antelope, pheasant and a eagle.
I walked a half mile to a little drive in with Sharon, Jennifer and Meghan where I had a chili burger. Jenifer and I walked across the street to a convenience store where I got supplies for breakfast.
Tomorrow is a shorter day so we are departing at 8 AM.
What a day. A big thank you is due to the Zion Lutheran Church which allowed us to stay in the church. It was a perfect facility for us with showers and enough rooms for everyone to have a private space. I stayed in an office that had a recliner. Perfect. Breakfast was muscle milk, banana and 6 inch Subway Italian BMT.
Departure time was 5 AM because we had a 100 mile day with strong headwinds. I started off with Sharon and Jennifer but could only keep up with them for about 10 miles. The rest of the day was riding solo. I prefer group rides but you make the best of the situation presented to you.
The wind to the first rest stop was only about 10 mph right on the head. Tiring but manageable. The first rest stop was at a closed store in Lindsay, MT at the 24 mile point. I was ahead of the van so stopped for a quick snack and drink. Sharon and Jennifer were at the rest stop. We were confronted by a huge dog but he was all bluster and never came close. He finally gave up and left. Sharon and Jennifer left before me and Angela pulled in just as I was leaving. Angela left camp at 4:30 AM. Wow.
The second portion of the ride to the rest stop at Circle, MT was the hardest of the day. It was another 25 miles straight into a strengthening headwind. I was only going 7-8 mph on many of the hills. This rest stop was my longest of the day but I still kept it to about 20 minutes. I had a Gatorade and Milky Way. Rest stop 2 would be the last time I would see any other riders until pulling into camp.
The course from rest stop 2 turned almost straight north. Since the wind was from the northwest it was a little better than dead ahead and my speed increased quite a bit. This was good because this was the longest segment at 30 miles. I had a flat on my front tire and noticed the tire was completely worn out. I will change it at the first opportunity. We also passed the 3000 mile mark on this segment.
An extraordinary thing happened about 10 miles from the rest stop. I was on a little flat before a hill when a pickup crested the hill and immediately slowed. The driver rolled down his window and was holding something out the window. I thought he was going to give me water or a snack. That has happened several times during the trip. Instead he handed me a $100 dollar bill and wished me a safe ride. I said we were raising money for MS and he said he knew and drove off. Wow! I was extremely excited the rest of the way to the rest stop. I have gotten lots of donations on the trip but never one this large. The spontaneous donations we receive has to be my favorite part of the trip. Sometimes the donations aren't money and they are just as special. We have gotten water, Gatorade, watermelon, fruit and others.
Rest stop 3 was my lunch stop and I had a quick lunch of Gatorade, prunes and half a bagel. There was also a nice big lab to play with.
The last segment continued the same as before until the last 10 miles. Strengthening wind but not a direct head wind. About 15 miles from the end there was a brief shower.. I quickly donned my rain gear and just as quickly removed it when the shower was over. As soon as the shower passed the wind died completely. It was so nice but unfortunately did not last. When it did come back it was strong and a direct headwind making the last 10 miles difficult. Some wise ass in a semi decided he needed to give me a truck shower even though there was no traffic coming from the other direction.
I crossed the Missouri River which had quite a current and completed the last 6 difficult miles to camp. The legs were getting tired and the wind was the strongest of the day. I entered Wolf Point and made my way to the town park, set up the tent and had a shower at the pool.. I thought there was only cold water for the shower and only discovered at the end that it was warm if I had let it run.
Today we saw deer, antelope, pheasant and a eagle.
I walked a half mile to a little drive in with Sharon, Jennifer and Meghan where I had a chili burger. Jenifer and I walked across the street to a convenience store where I got supplies for breakfast.
Tomorrow is a shorter day so we are departing at 8 AM.
Sunrise near Glendive, MT
One Room Schoolhouse no longer active near Wolf Point, MT
Near Circle, MT
Crossing the Missouri River at Wolf Point, MT
WhDay + 46 July 12, 2016
Molena, ND to Glendive, MT 65 miles
We stayed in The Bunkhouse Motel in Molena because our campground was to wet. I had a single bed in a family suite which was great.
Because my bike bottom bracket is broken and I need a part I will be staying back with the van and trailer waiting on the part which is supposed to arrive before 12. I was at the bike shop at 10 waiting for the part which never showed. Jennifer at the bike shop started calling to locate it at noon and found out it had been shipped regular mail instead of overnight delivery. Now we had a situation.
The parts supplier agreed to overnight the part from Billings, MT to our next stop. I called the Comfort Inn and they agreed to receive the part even though we were not staying there. While we were doing that Connor, our mechanic spied a bike hanging on a rack that had Ultegra drive train. We removed the part from that bike and even though it was not identical it worked. The charge was $3 for the part and I gave then $10 but should have given them $20 except it was their fault the part was not shipped correctly in the first place.
I got a sandwich across the street at the convenience store and we headed out of town. I was actually glad I was not riding today because the wind was 30-35 mph directly on the head. We caught up with Eddie and Grant, two of the stronger riders, at Rest Stop 1 and they hopped in the van.
Most of the rest of the group was at rest stop 2 and we collected a couple more. I could have gotten out and ridden the last 30 miles but I wanted nothing of that wind.
Sharon had arranged for us to use a church in Glendive instead of camping. I was so happy since the wilderness campsite we were scheduled to use had no running water The church was our best accommodations yet. Most had private rooms and there were showers and kitchen facilities. I slept in an office with a recliner.
We stayed in The Bunkhouse Motel in Molena because our campground was to wet. I had a single bed in a family suite which was great.
Because my bike bottom bracket is broken and I need a part I will be staying back with the van and trailer waiting on the part which is supposed to arrive before 12. I was at the bike shop at 10 waiting for the part which never showed. Jennifer at the bike shop started calling to locate it at noon and found out it had been shipped regular mail instead of overnight delivery. Now we had a situation.
The parts supplier agreed to overnight the part from Billings, MT to our next stop. I called the Comfort Inn and they agreed to receive the part even though we were not staying there. While we were doing that Connor, our mechanic spied a bike hanging on a rack that had Ultegra drive train. We removed the part from that bike and even though it was not identical it worked. The charge was $3 for the part and I gave then $10 but should have given them $20 except it was their fault the part was not shipped correctly in the first place.
I got a sandwich across the street at the convenience store and we headed out of town. I was actually glad I was not riding today because the wind was 30-35 mph directly on the head. We caught up with Eddie and Grant, two of the stronger riders, at Rest Stop 1 and they hopped in the van.
Most of the rest of the group was at rest stop 2 and we collected a couple more. I could have gotten out and ridden the last 30 miles but I wanted nothing of that wind.
Sharon had arranged for us to use a church in Glendive instead of camping. I was so happy since the wilderness campsite we were scheduled to use had no running water The church was our best accommodations yet. Most had private rooms and there were showers and kitchen facilities. I slept in an office with a recliner.
Day + 45 July 11, 2016
Hebron, ND to Molena, ND 80 miles
This was not a good day for me since my bike is broken. I will be a van queen for the day and I don't like it.
I woke up the normal time and dressed in street clothes instead of bicycling clothes. After packing up I emptied the waste baskets in the church we stayed in and straightened up. Megan was driving the van and trailer and I rode with her.
We left Hebron at 8 AM and crossed into Mountain Time Zone a short time later. Our first stop was the bike shop in Dickerson, ND. It was not open when we got there but the owner arrived a short time later and opened the shop early for us. He did not have the crank arm fixing bolt for an Ultegra crankset and did not have a bike he could remove it from. Before moving on we stopped at a coffee shop where I had a cinnamon roll. We met another bike group heading east raising money for stroke awareness.
On the way to Molena we stopped at a roadside viewing area for the Teddy Roosevelt National Park in the North Dakota badlands for photos. In spite of the 25 mph headwinds I would have much rather been riding today.
Molena was just a few miles further on from the badlands viewing area. We headed straight to the Molena Campgrounds where we were scheduled to spend the night. Be cause of the heavy rains we found the group campsites to be in unacceptable condition due to mud. There was also more rain forecast for the evening. We decided to check out motels and reserved 4 family suites in the Bunkhouse. Next we stopped by Dakota Cyclery and verified my bicycle part would be arriving before noon the next day. That means the van will have to stay back until the part arrives. Hopefully I will get to ride part of the day tomorrow.
Before lunch we picked up mail at the post office. There were packages for almost everyone. Lunch was at the Cowboy Café near the post office. It was busy and we shared a table with two ladies and the bus driver from a tour group. I had a buffalo burger and the only difference from a hamburger that I could tell was that it was $4 more expensive. Sharon and Jennifer arrived just as we were finishing lunch. Sharon and Megan decided to go horseback riding while Jennifer and I went to a coffee shop with our computers to work on our blogs. We were there about 1 1/2 hours before walking to the hotel and finding our rooms. By this time the wind was near 39 mph as predicted by the weather forecast.
I hung out at the hotel until everyone arrived watching TV. This is the first TV I have watched since leaving Bar Harbor on 28 May and I just did it as a time filler. I walked to dinner with Ethan and Chandler and we ran into most of the rest of the group and ate with them. After dinner we walked
back to the hotel.
Tomorrow is supposed to be more heavy headwinds
This was not a good day for me since my bike is broken. I will be a van queen for the day and I don't like it.
I woke up the normal time and dressed in street clothes instead of bicycling clothes. After packing up I emptied the waste baskets in the church we stayed in and straightened up. Megan was driving the van and trailer and I rode with her.
We left Hebron at 8 AM and crossed into Mountain Time Zone a short time later. Our first stop was the bike shop in Dickerson, ND. It was not open when we got there but the owner arrived a short time later and opened the shop early for us. He did not have the crank arm fixing bolt for an Ultegra crankset and did not have a bike he could remove it from. Before moving on we stopped at a coffee shop where I had a cinnamon roll. We met another bike group heading east raising money for stroke awareness.
On the way to Molena we stopped at a roadside viewing area for the Teddy Roosevelt National Park in the North Dakota badlands for photos. In spite of the 25 mph headwinds I would have much rather been riding today.
Molena was just a few miles further on from the badlands viewing area. We headed straight to the Molena Campgrounds where we were scheduled to spend the night. Be cause of the heavy rains we found the group campsites to be in unacceptable condition due to mud. There was also more rain forecast for the evening. We decided to check out motels and reserved 4 family suites in the Bunkhouse. Next we stopped by Dakota Cyclery and verified my bicycle part would be arriving before noon the next day. That means the van will have to stay back until the part arrives. Hopefully I will get to ride part of the day tomorrow.
Before lunch we picked up mail at the post office. There were packages for almost everyone. Lunch was at the Cowboy Café near the post office. It was busy and we shared a table with two ladies and the bus driver from a tour group. I had a buffalo burger and the only difference from a hamburger that I could tell was that it was $4 more expensive. Sharon and Jennifer arrived just as we were finishing lunch. Sharon and Megan decided to go horseback riding while Jennifer and I went to a coffee shop with our computers to work on our blogs. We were there about 1 1/2 hours before walking to the hotel and finding our rooms. By this time the wind was near 39 mph as predicted by the weather forecast.
I hung out at the hotel until everyone arrived watching TV. This is the first TV I have watched since leaving Bar Harbor on 28 May and I just did it as a time filler. I walked to dinner with Ethan and Chandler and we ran into most of the rest of the group and ate with them. After dinner we walked
back to the hotel.
Tomorrow is supposed to be more heavy headwinds
Day + 44 July 10, 2016
Bismarck, ND to Hebron, ND 72 miles.
Last night we had the pleasure of staying with Heddie and Jack in Bismarck, ND. Our service project was at their house and they invited us to stay because of the weather forecast. It is a good thing we took their offer because heavy thunderstorms passed through starting at 4AM.
Heddie and Jack were so good to us. Besides shelter from the storm they provided food, drink, snacks, showers, laundry, internet and great company. In addition they volunteered to host Bike the US for MS next year. Thank you much. That is true North Dakota hospitality.
Sharon, Jennifer and I were off at 7:30 AM. By this time the clouds had mostly cleared and there were just a very few drops of rain. We had a short distance on the Bismarck streets before finding a bicycle trail. The trail was very nice. So nice in fact that we went 3-4 extra unplanned miles on it before realizing we took a wrong turn. Once we figured out where we were it was just a few minutes to get back on course. The first 10 miles west of Bismarck were a flat valley. We then climbed out of the valley and had moderate hills the rest of the way. As usual I was challenged to keep up with Sharon and Jennifer on the hills.
Our first rest stop was at New Salem at the 35 mile point. Salem is a very small town and since it was Sunday nothing was open. Jennifer flagged down a car and learned there was a park just a couple blocks away with a port a potty. We were the first to get to the rest stop and the first to leave after applying the sun screen and filling water bottles.
A cyclist from another group stopped at our rest stop and chatted. He headed out the same time as we did and stayed close to us for about 20 miles. About 5 miles out of town we had to get in Interstate 94 for about 12 miles. There was a nice wide shoulder but we could only use the outside 18 inches because of rumble strips that would shake your teeth out. I think the other cyclist had a death wish since he biked on the highway most of the time. Exiting the highway we had 5 miles to the second rest stop in Glenn Ullin, ND. Before getting there were had to wait at a railroad crossing for about 10 minutes waiting for a train to pass.
There are very few towns in western North Dakota and the second rest stop was in the very small town of Glenn Ullin at a gas station. It was noon and the gas station had a make your own sub sandwich bar which was very good. The other cyclists trickled into the gas station and no one seemed to be in a hurry to leave.
I looked at tomorrows weather forecast and saw west winds at 20-30 mph. This got Sharon and Jennifer thinking and they decided to continue on the Modera instead of staying with the group at Hebron. They asked me if I wanted to go with them but 90 more miles did not appeal to me.
I biked the final 12 miles to Hebron with Julia. It was a quick easy ride with a tailwind. Throughout the day we saw large coal trains, some full heading east and some empty heading west. We arrived almost first and set up our tents in the pavilion at the Hebron Community Center. Then I got a shower at the pool next door. It only had cold water but felt really good on the hottest day we have had.
I had been hearing a clicking noise from my bottom bracket all day and had our mechanic, Connor, check it. He found the crank arm fixing bolt was broken which made my bicycle not able to be ridden. It was Sunday afternoon and I had little hope of finding the part but to my surprise found Dakota Cyclery in Modera, ND open. They did not have the part but could get it by noon Tuesday so I ordered it. This means I will be a van rider tomorrow.
About this time we started getting weather warnings of possible severe thunderstorms with hail and tornados. Everyone was in a tizzy and the route leaders set off to find more secure shelter. Two options materialized at the same time. We had the option of the school or the church next door. The church was chosen because it was close. I originally decided to stay in the pavilion but changed my mind at the last minute. Good thing because shortly after moving my stuff to the church the skies opened up and the couple of people that stayed outside were soaked along with their stuff.
Hebron had a pretty vital downtown for such a small place. There was a bar and a couple of restaurants open on Sunday plus another bar that was closed. It was just a short walk across the railroad tracks to downtown. All the open places were busy. I ate at a little café in town and had a Mikes Hard Lemonade to drown my sorrows.
Last night we had the pleasure of staying with Heddie and Jack in Bismarck, ND. Our service project was at their house and they invited us to stay because of the weather forecast. It is a good thing we took their offer because heavy thunderstorms passed through starting at 4AM.
Heddie and Jack were so good to us. Besides shelter from the storm they provided food, drink, snacks, showers, laundry, internet and great company. In addition they volunteered to host Bike the US for MS next year. Thank you much. That is true North Dakota hospitality.
Sharon, Jennifer and I were off at 7:30 AM. By this time the clouds had mostly cleared and there were just a very few drops of rain. We had a short distance on the Bismarck streets before finding a bicycle trail. The trail was very nice. So nice in fact that we went 3-4 extra unplanned miles on it before realizing we took a wrong turn. Once we figured out where we were it was just a few minutes to get back on course. The first 10 miles west of Bismarck were a flat valley. We then climbed out of the valley and had moderate hills the rest of the way. As usual I was challenged to keep up with Sharon and Jennifer on the hills.
Our first rest stop was at New Salem at the 35 mile point. Salem is a very small town and since it was Sunday nothing was open. Jennifer flagged down a car and learned there was a park just a couple blocks away with a port a potty. We were the first to get to the rest stop and the first to leave after applying the sun screen and filling water bottles.
A cyclist from another group stopped at our rest stop and chatted. He headed out the same time as we did and stayed close to us for about 20 miles. About 5 miles out of town we had to get in Interstate 94 for about 12 miles. There was a nice wide shoulder but we could only use the outside 18 inches because of rumble strips that would shake your teeth out. I think the other cyclist had a death wish since he biked on the highway most of the time. Exiting the highway we had 5 miles to the second rest stop in Glenn Ullin, ND. Before getting there were had to wait at a railroad crossing for about 10 minutes waiting for a train to pass.
There are very few towns in western North Dakota and the second rest stop was in the very small town of Glenn Ullin at a gas station. It was noon and the gas station had a make your own sub sandwich bar which was very good. The other cyclists trickled into the gas station and no one seemed to be in a hurry to leave.
I looked at tomorrows weather forecast and saw west winds at 20-30 mph. This got Sharon and Jennifer thinking and they decided to continue on the Modera instead of staying with the group at Hebron. They asked me if I wanted to go with them but 90 more miles did not appeal to me.
I biked the final 12 miles to Hebron with Julia. It was a quick easy ride with a tailwind. Throughout the day we saw large coal trains, some full heading east and some empty heading west. We arrived almost first and set up our tents in the pavilion at the Hebron Community Center. Then I got a shower at the pool next door. It only had cold water but felt really good on the hottest day we have had.
I had been hearing a clicking noise from my bottom bracket all day and had our mechanic, Connor, check it. He found the crank arm fixing bolt was broken which made my bicycle not able to be ridden. It was Sunday afternoon and I had little hope of finding the part but to my surprise found Dakota Cyclery in Modera, ND open. They did not have the part but could get it by noon Tuesday so I ordered it. This means I will be a van rider tomorrow.
About this time we started getting weather warnings of possible severe thunderstorms with hail and tornados. Everyone was in a tizzy and the route leaders set off to find more secure shelter. Two options materialized at the same time. We had the option of the school or the church next door. The church was chosen because it was close. I originally decided to stay in the pavilion but changed my mind at the last minute. Good thing because shortly after moving my stuff to the church the skies opened up and the couple of people that stayed outside were soaked along with their stuff.
Hebron had a pretty vital downtown for such a small place. There was a bar and a couple of restaurants open on Sunday plus another bar that was closed. It was just a short walk across the railroad tracks to downtown. All the open places were busy. I ate at a little café in town and had a Mikes Hard Lemonade to drown my sorrows.
Day + 43 Julu 9, 2016
Bismarck, ND Rest Day
We stayed the night at General Sibley State Park outside Bismarck, North Dokota. We were out to just after midnight celebrating so you would think I would be able to sleep in. The rest day started at 6:15 AM. I got up and headed to the camp restroom for a shower. The bathroom cleaner arrived at the same time I did but the wait was only 10 minutes and I did not want to make the hike to my tent and then back again. After the shower I sat at the picnic table by my tent and had breakfast. I was serenaded by wild turkeys while eating breakfast but I did not see any. Later when returning from the service project several people in my van saw them briefly but I did not. All the time I was eating breakfast the clouds were threatening. Finally at 8 AM we had thunderstorms and I headed to the tent. Lots of wind and rain but I did not see any lightning.
Getting a group together to leave is always an adventure and this group is no exception. There are those of us who are always on time and then there is the group that is always late. We were supposed to leave at 9:30. Finally the group leader shouted 10 minute warning at 9:40. We were separated into two groups for different projects. Fortunately my group's project was only 4 miles from camp so we were close to on time.
We were greeted by a welcome sign and had introductions before starting for work. I jumped on the landscape fabric and mulch job. Unlike our last service project the yard was well kept to begin with. We laid landscape fabric in 3 good sized beds and then spread bags of cedar mulch. Meanwhile two other teams were cleaning gutters and installing gutter guards and also building a small retaining wall. After the wall was built we put landscape fabric it that bed also.
By this time it was lunch time. Our hosts ordered Jimmy Johns subs and also a fruit and vegetable tray. We moved lawn chairs into the shade and ate lunch.
After lunch we continued the service project by staining a fence finishing about 2 PM.
Our hosts expressed concern with tonights weather forecast and invited us to stay at their house tonight which we accepted. I really did not want to pack up and move but AC for the night was a powerful motivator.
Before the service project was over Eddie took me to the mall to pick up my bicycle. It was ready and they did not charge me anything. I expected no charge for the warranty work but not for having my front wheel trued.
Everything was packed into the trailer and I rode to our new nightly indoor camping spot on my bike. It was only 4 miles and did not take long.
I took a little nap in a recliner and was joined by one of their dogs for awhile. I would estimate it weighs around 30 pounds so it was bigger than Lulu or Lizzy. Their were a half dozen different options for dinner and I ended up going to Perkins with Jennifer. Before Perkins we stopped at the bike store for a third time so I could get a new mirror. Unfortunately they did not have the kind I like so will have to make do with the old one. At perkins I had salmon which was excellent. Also had apple pie.
We biked back and I took a shower and got ready for bed. Tomorrow is supposed to be 95 so we are leaving at 7AM.
We stayed the night at General Sibley State Park outside Bismarck, North Dokota. We were out to just after midnight celebrating so you would think I would be able to sleep in. The rest day started at 6:15 AM. I got up and headed to the camp restroom for a shower. The bathroom cleaner arrived at the same time I did but the wait was only 10 minutes and I did not want to make the hike to my tent and then back again. After the shower I sat at the picnic table by my tent and had breakfast. I was serenaded by wild turkeys while eating breakfast but I did not see any. Later when returning from the service project several people in my van saw them briefly but I did not. All the time I was eating breakfast the clouds were threatening. Finally at 8 AM we had thunderstorms and I headed to the tent. Lots of wind and rain but I did not see any lightning.
Getting a group together to leave is always an adventure and this group is no exception. There are those of us who are always on time and then there is the group that is always late. We were supposed to leave at 9:30. Finally the group leader shouted 10 minute warning at 9:40. We were separated into two groups for different projects. Fortunately my group's project was only 4 miles from camp so we were close to on time.
We were greeted by a welcome sign and had introductions before starting for work. I jumped on the landscape fabric and mulch job. Unlike our last service project the yard was well kept to begin with. We laid landscape fabric in 3 good sized beds and then spread bags of cedar mulch. Meanwhile two other teams were cleaning gutters and installing gutter guards and also building a small retaining wall. After the wall was built we put landscape fabric it that bed also.
By this time it was lunch time. Our hosts ordered Jimmy Johns subs and also a fruit and vegetable tray. We moved lawn chairs into the shade and ate lunch.
After lunch we continued the service project by staining a fence finishing about 2 PM.
Our hosts expressed concern with tonights weather forecast and invited us to stay at their house tonight which we accepted. I really did not want to pack up and move but AC for the night was a powerful motivator.
Before the service project was over Eddie took me to the mall to pick up my bicycle. It was ready and they did not charge me anything. I expected no charge for the warranty work but not for having my front wheel trued.
Everything was packed into the trailer and I rode to our new nightly indoor camping spot on my bike. It was only 4 miles and did not take long.
I took a little nap in a recliner and was joined by one of their dogs for awhile. I would estimate it weighs around 30 pounds so it was bigger than Lulu or Lizzy. Their were a half dozen different options for dinner and I ended up going to Perkins with Jennifer. Before Perkins we stopped at the bike store for a third time so I could get a new mirror. Unfortunately they did not have the kind I like so will have to make do with the old one. At perkins I had salmon which was excellent. Also had apple pie.
We biked back and I took a shower and got ready for bed. Tomorrow is supposed to be 95 so we are leaving at 7AM.
Day + 42 July 8, 2016
Napoleon, ND to Bismarck, ND 72 miles
I woke up to heavy dew on the tent which means I had to put it away wet. Had a quick breakfast and we were off at 7:30. There were fewer miles today so there is less urgency to push off. Wind in the forecast last night was from the north but it is westerly. Fortunately it is less than 10 mph since it is a headwind.
Just west of Napoleon was a lake that actually adjoined our campground but I didn't even know it. Biking was not the easiest with the headwind and the road surface was chip seal. It has a rough texture and really slows you down. I had left with Catherine but was biking by myself within 10 miles. The countryside was a mixture of farming and grassland with rolling hills. We passed several fields of sunflowers which was a first for this trip. I passed a couple of slower riders along the way. About 5 miles from our rest stop in Hazelton, ND I had a flat on the front tire. I changed it with no problem and was underway within 10 minutes. Rest stop 1 was at a convenience store. I had chocolate mile and cashews.
Heading north from Hazelton there was almost no farmland. It was 100% grassland for about 10 miles. I was not riding with Jennifer, Vicki, and Catherine. Our riding groups are very fluid today. We dropped down into a little valley and turned west where there again was some farming. Rest Stop 2 was at the side of the road.
Right after the rest stop we picked up another road which had a much better surface and our speed increased about 3 mph. This part of North Dakota has lots of hills but none that are killers. We pulled into camp about 2:30 which wasn't bad for 72 miles. Camp is really not in Bismarck but at General Sibley State Park 4.5 miles south of town. The campground is one of the nicest we have been with large campsites, clean bathrooms and showers. The only problem is location. Tomorrow is a rest day and everyone needs laundry, grocery shopping, bike repairs, etc..
I asked one of our Route Leaders if they could take me and my bike into town to the bike shop where I am getting a new back wheel and hopefully getting my front wheel trued. His reply was "If we go into town which we aren't planning to do we can give you a ride". This really ticked me off and several other people and we let them know it. So after everyone got to camp we had a bike shop and laundry run. I also got to Q'doba which was near the laundry.
Tonight is BROM (Bike riders PROM). I think it really is an excuse to drink heavily which I don't do. Anyway most people went to the thrift store to purchase a ridiculous costume which I couldn't do because I was at the Bike Shop. I fashioned a costume out of what I had in my bag. There was a little party at the campsite before quiet time and then everyone packed into the van and we went to a bar. I wish I hadn't gone to the bar because I just don't enjoy that. Anyway we were back to camp shortly after midnight. I hardly even stay up to midnight on New Years Eve.
Tomorrow is an official rest day after the service project at 9:30. The service projects are scheduled to last 2 hours. However the last one lasted 4.
I woke up to heavy dew on the tent which means I had to put it away wet. Had a quick breakfast and we were off at 7:30. There were fewer miles today so there is less urgency to push off. Wind in the forecast last night was from the north but it is westerly. Fortunately it is less than 10 mph since it is a headwind.
Just west of Napoleon was a lake that actually adjoined our campground but I didn't even know it. Biking was not the easiest with the headwind and the road surface was chip seal. It has a rough texture and really slows you down. I had left with Catherine but was biking by myself within 10 miles. The countryside was a mixture of farming and grassland with rolling hills. We passed several fields of sunflowers which was a first for this trip. I passed a couple of slower riders along the way. About 5 miles from our rest stop in Hazelton, ND I had a flat on the front tire. I changed it with no problem and was underway within 10 minutes. Rest stop 1 was at a convenience store. I had chocolate mile and cashews.
Heading north from Hazelton there was almost no farmland. It was 100% grassland for about 10 miles. I was not riding with Jennifer, Vicki, and Catherine. Our riding groups are very fluid today. We dropped down into a little valley and turned west where there again was some farming. Rest Stop 2 was at the side of the road.
Right after the rest stop we picked up another road which had a much better surface and our speed increased about 3 mph. This part of North Dakota has lots of hills but none that are killers. We pulled into camp about 2:30 which wasn't bad for 72 miles. Camp is really not in Bismarck but at General Sibley State Park 4.5 miles south of town. The campground is one of the nicest we have been with large campsites, clean bathrooms and showers. The only problem is location. Tomorrow is a rest day and everyone needs laundry, grocery shopping, bike repairs, etc..
I asked one of our Route Leaders if they could take me and my bike into town to the bike shop where I am getting a new back wheel and hopefully getting my front wheel trued. His reply was "If we go into town which we aren't planning to do we can give you a ride". This really ticked me off and several other people and we let them know it. So after everyone got to camp we had a bike shop and laundry run. I also got to Q'doba which was near the laundry.
Tonight is BROM (Bike riders PROM). I think it really is an excuse to drink heavily which I don't do. Anyway most people went to the thrift store to purchase a ridiculous costume which I couldn't do because I was at the Bike Shop. I fashioned a costume out of what I had in my bag. There was a little party at the campsite before quiet time and then everyone packed into the van and we went to a bar. I wish I hadn't gone to the bar because I just don't enjoy that. Anyway we were back to camp shortly after midnight. I hardly even stay up to midnight on New Years Eve.
Tomorrow is an official rest day after the service project at 9:30. The service projects are scheduled to last 2 hours. However the last one lasted 4.
Day + 41 July 7, 2016
Kathryn, ND to Napoleon, ND 100 miles
We had it all today; wind, hills and rain but not so much of any of them to ruin the day.
The alarm went off at 5 AM this morning which was way too early but we needed to get going since this was a 100 mile day. Breakfast was peanut butter and jelly and honey on a sandwich thin and an apple. After 41 days this is getting old. I need a more satisfying alternative that is quick and easy. Oatmeal may be making a comeback.
We were off just a few minutes after 6 AM. We had a 4 mile ride to get from Kathryn, ND to the main road which included a very large hill. This is not good on cold muscles and I groaned and huffed all the way to the top. Once we reached North Dakota 46 which we would be on most of the day the group took off like they were running a sprint when we really had a marathon type of day. It really got ridiculous so I dropped back so as not to burn out. Before we got to the first rest stop I had passed a couple of the sprinters. It was overcast and sprinkled lightly for several miles. I started with my jacket and took it off when we reached the main rod. The sprinkles were not heavy enough to put my jacket back on.
The first rest stop was at the side of the road. There wasn't anyplace else to have it. Our map had a note that there were no services for 78 miles and it was accurate. We are definitely in rural America.
It was 35 miles to the second rest stop and I rode with Catherine. She rides closest to my pace although she is stronger than me on the hills. The second rest stop was in Grackle. ND at the 60 mile point. I laughed because there were signs on main street limiting parking to 15 minutes but I didn't see more than 1 or 2 cars the entire time we were there. We arrived at 10:30 AM but the only café opened at 11 AM. Our choices were to wait or skip lunch. We waited and I shared a mediocre cheese pizza with Catherine. It cooled considerably and the wind had picked up some during lunch so I needed a jacket again since my clothes were damp.
Rest stop 3 was again along side of the road at mile 80. There were lots of small lakes on the way and several of them had pelicans and one had a couple of Sand Hill Cranes. The ride was still pleasant going into rest stop 3.
We made a turn right at rest stop 3 which headed us right into the wind which had picked up to 15 mph. Although this is not a huge headwind it combined with the many hills were a challenge to our weary legs. Catherine and I switched off the lead which allowed the back rider some shelter from the wind. Although we thought the cycling was hard we had to stop for a truck crossing the road and the flagman told us that winds are many times much stronger than today Yikes.
About 5 miles outside of Napoleon there was a collection of antique threshing machines at the side of the road. Of course I had to stop and takes pictures..
As we traveled west there is less farming and more cattle. We encountered our first grazing land today and I expect grazing to dominate the landscape as we travel further west.
Napoleon is a small town of 800 people. We are camping in the city park right next to the pool which means shower. Dinner was a paddy melt and salad bar at the local pub after showers and grocery shopping.
Tomorrow is only 75 miles which means a 7 AM start instead off 6 AM. We will be going to Bismarck, ND and will have a rest day after service projects. My main mission in Bismarck is to get my rear wheel replaced at the Trek dealer.
We had it all today; wind, hills and rain but not so much of any of them to ruin the day.
The alarm went off at 5 AM this morning which was way too early but we needed to get going since this was a 100 mile day. Breakfast was peanut butter and jelly and honey on a sandwich thin and an apple. After 41 days this is getting old. I need a more satisfying alternative that is quick and easy. Oatmeal may be making a comeback.
We were off just a few minutes after 6 AM. We had a 4 mile ride to get from Kathryn, ND to the main road which included a very large hill. This is not good on cold muscles and I groaned and huffed all the way to the top. Once we reached North Dakota 46 which we would be on most of the day the group took off like they were running a sprint when we really had a marathon type of day. It really got ridiculous so I dropped back so as not to burn out. Before we got to the first rest stop I had passed a couple of the sprinters. It was overcast and sprinkled lightly for several miles. I started with my jacket and took it off when we reached the main rod. The sprinkles were not heavy enough to put my jacket back on.
The first rest stop was at the side of the road. There wasn't anyplace else to have it. Our map had a note that there were no services for 78 miles and it was accurate. We are definitely in rural America.
It was 35 miles to the second rest stop and I rode with Catherine. She rides closest to my pace although she is stronger than me on the hills. The second rest stop was in Grackle. ND at the 60 mile point. I laughed because there were signs on main street limiting parking to 15 minutes but I didn't see more than 1 or 2 cars the entire time we were there. We arrived at 10:30 AM but the only café opened at 11 AM. Our choices were to wait or skip lunch. We waited and I shared a mediocre cheese pizza with Catherine. It cooled considerably and the wind had picked up some during lunch so I needed a jacket again since my clothes were damp.
Rest stop 3 was again along side of the road at mile 80. There were lots of small lakes on the way and several of them had pelicans and one had a couple of Sand Hill Cranes. The ride was still pleasant going into rest stop 3.
We made a turn right at rest stop 3 which headed us right into the wind which had picked up to 15 mph. Although this is not a huge headwind it combined with the many hills were a challenge to our weary legs. Catherine and I switched off the lead which allowed the back rider some shelter from the wind. Although we thought the cycling was hard we had to stop for a truck crossing the road and the flagman told us that winds are many times much stronger than today Yikes.
About 5 miles outside of Napoleon there was a collection of antique threshing machines at the side of the road. Of course I had to stop and takes pictures..
As we traveled west there is less farming and more cattle. We encountered our first grazing land today and I expect grazing to dominate the landscape as we travel further west.
Napoleon is a small town of 800 people. We are camping in the city park right next to the pool which means shower. Dinner was a paddy melt and salad bar at the local pub after showers and grocery shopping.
Tomorrow is only 75 miles which means a 7 AM start instead off 6 AM. We will be going to Bismarck, ND and will have a rest day after service projects. My main mission in Bismarck is to get my rear wheel replaced at the Trek dealer.
Cool and Cloudy most of the day
Love the changing wheat.
I rode with Catherine most of the day.
Dinosaurs of the Prairie near Napoleon, ND
Dinosaurs of the Prairie lined up along the ridge
Day + 40 July 6, 2016
Fargo, ND to Kathryn, ND 78 miles
Last nights stay at Lindenwood Park Campground was perfect except one little detail. The bathrooms near our campsite were locked at 5 AM when I got up. The nearest open ones were a quarter mile away. That is a cruel joke to play on an old guy.
Anyway the 6 AM departure did not happen until 6:30. The usual suspects were late but everyone else was also. After a last stop at the main campground bathroom we were off. Within 2 miles we were what North Dakota calls a bike trail. Most people would call it a sidewalk. It did get us off the busy street until we were out of town.
Our Adventure Cycling Association map took us south for about 10 miles before heading west. There was more than a little bit of grumbling about the course since just yesterday we had fought a strong headwind going north into Fargo and now we were going back south.
The day started overcast and humid. Cool and humid is much better than hot and humid. The was a slight headwind that wasn't strong enough to bother us. By the time we were at the first rest stop at Kindred, ND my group had thinned down to Sharon, Catherine and myself. Catherine spent most of the time in the lead. We made it to the rest stop before the van and stopped for a quick snack. I had a chocolate milk.
The wind had picked up a little by the time we pulled out. It slowed us some by wasn't bad enough to tire us out. We ran into some construction and at one point there was a flagman. When it was our turn to go we let the cars and trucks go first. When we passed the flagman all she said was that we were not going to like the road. In may mind I prepared for the worst but it wasn't too bad. The road was tore up in places and there was a lot of dirt but nothing that would hinder our riding. We did pass a big power brush that was brushing off the road and creating a huge dust cloud that coated us in dust.
We got to the second rest stop ahead of the van and decided to turn into town and get lunch but there was a train blocking the intersection into town. A lady saw us turn and followed us to tell us another way into town. She then led us to the alternate route.
Just as I was turning off the main road a North Dakota State Trooper pulled up beside me and said he wanted to talk to me. One of the flagman at the construction site complained that some cyclists ignored his instructions. I assured him that it wasn't me and he was satisfied.
Late edit: I just found out the cyclist the trooper was looking for was none other than our own Grant who ignored the instructions of the flagman. Way to go dig-a-ling.
Lunch was at a little café in Enderlin, ND where I had a BLT and fries.
We had about 21 miles to go after lunch. The van had arrived at the rest stop an we stopped to buy drinks and put on sunscreen before moving on. About 5 miles after the rest stop Luke pulled up beside us and a little later on Ethan. This frequently happens since they are faster riders but we start earlier. Oddly they stayed with us the rest of the way to Kathryn. The terrain had been mostly flat today except for one descent into Sheyenne River valley and then immediately a big climb. We are staying at the camping in the Kathryn Community Center.
You can see the changes in the land as we move west. Near Fargo it was all irrigated farmland with corn, beans and sugar beets planted. This was the first sugar beets I have seen on the trip and no one I asked knew what they were. As we rode further west some of the corn and beans were replaced by wheat. The wheat is just starting to turn color. We may be too early but I would really like to see wheat harvested before we finish the trip.
Dinner is the Sheyene Pub which is the only business open in town. I had shrimp and french fries.
Tomorrow is our first 100 mile day.
Last nights stay at Lindenwood Park Campground was perfect except one little detail. The bathrooms near our campsite were locked at 5 AM when I got up. The nearest open ones were a quarter mile away. That is a cruel joke to play on an old guy.
Anyway the 6 AM departure did not happen until 6:30. The usual suspects were late but everyone else was also. After a last stop at the main campground bathroom we were off. Within 2 miles we were what North Dakota calls a bike trail. Most people would call it a sidewalk. It did get us off the busy street until we were out of town.
Our Adventure Cycling Association map took us south for about 10 miles before heading west. There was more than a little bit of grumbling about the course since just yesterday we had fought a strong headwind going north into Fargo and now we were going back south.
The day started overcast and humid. Cool and humid is much better than hot and humid. The was a slight headwind that wasn't strong enough to bother us. By the time we were at the first rest stop at Kindred, ND my group had thinned down to Sharon, Catherine and myself. Catherine spent most of the time in the lead. We made it to the rest stop before the van and stopped for a quick snack. I had a chocolate milk.
The wind had picked up a little by the time we pulled out. It slowed us some by wasn't bad enough to tire us out. We ran into some construction and at one point there was a flagman. When it was our turn to go we let the cars and trucks go first. When we passed the flagman all she said was that we were not going to like the road. In may mind I prepared for the worst but it wasn't too bad. The road was tore up in places and there was a lot of dirt but nothing that would hinder our riding. We did pass a big power brush that was brushing off the road and creating a huge dust cloud that coated us in dust.
We got to the second rest stop ahead of the van and decided to turn into town and get lunch but there was a train blocking the intersection into town. A lady saw us turn and followed us to tell us another way into town. She then led us to the alternate route.
Just as I was turning off the main road a North Dakota State Trooper pulled up beside me and said he wanted to talk to me. One of the flagman at the construction site complained that some cyclists ignored his instructions. I assured him that it wasn't me and he was satisfied.
Late edit: I just found out the cyclist the trooper was looking for was none other than our own Grant who ignored the instructions of the flagman. Way to go dig-a-ling.
Lunch was at a little café in Enderlin, ND where I had a BLT and fries.
We had about 21 miles to go after lunch. The van had arrived at the rest stop an we stopped to buy drinks and put on sunscreen before moving on. About 5 miles after the rest stop Luke pulled up beside us and a little later on Ethan. This frequently happens since they are faster riders but we start earlier. Oddly they stayed with us the rest of the way to Kathryn. The terrain had been mostly flat today except for one descent into Sheyenne River valley and then immediately a big climb. We are staying at the camping in the Kathryn Community Center.
You can see the changes in the land as we move west. Near Fargo it was all irrigated farmland with corn, beans and sugar beets planted. This was the first sugar beets I have seen on the trip and no one I asked knew what they were. As we rode further west some of the corn and beans were replaced by wheat. The wheat is just starting to turn color. We may be too early but I would really like to see wheat harvested before we finish the trip.
Dinner is the Sheyene Pub which is the only business open in town. I had shrimp and french fries.
Tomorrow is our first 100 mile day.
Cycling to Kathryn, ND
Downtown Kathryn, ND. The whole town.
Kathryn, ND Community Center with Bike the US for MS vans in front.
Day + 39 July 5, 2016
Fergus Fall, MN to Fargo, ND 86 miles
We had some very light rain in the night and there was still a drop or two falling as we left camp. No problems except the rain fly was damp when packed.
We were off at about 7:30 AM. It was cloudy, cool and humid. Since it was cool the humidity just made it a little clammy. The first 3-4 miles was through Fergus Falls part which was on the bike trail which was very rough. The last 3-4 days we have enjoyed very flat terrain. Coming out of Fergus Falls there were a lot of hills although none were of the steep New England variety. Everyone commented on how much easier the hills were for them after 38 days of riding. I started noticing it yesterday but the amount of trees is definitely diminishing. Before long we will be in prairie. But not quite yet.
The first rest stop was 30 miles away in Brownsville, MN. It was a relaxed ride at a relaxed pace with lots of photo opportunities. At the first rest stop we decided to have breakfast at the Muddy Moose which was probably a mistake. The food was very good but it took 90 minutes to eat.
Our group thinned out at the first rest stop. We were down to 4 because Sharon and Alison didn't want to wait for breakfast. We ran into some cyclists traveling east from Portland to Boston stopped at a spot where there were dozens of old shoes tacked onto telephone poles and fence posts. I would like to know the story behind them. By the time we reached the second rest stop my group was down to just Catherine and myself. Katie and Vicki had dropped back.
The wind had picked up by the time we left the second rest stop and for about 10 miles it was a strong tailwind allowing us to fly along at 20 mph. Unfortunately we changed direction first giving us a side wind and then a head wind. The last 18 miles were not near as fun. We stopped at an ice cream shop for the 3rd rest stop and I had a root beer float which was excellent. We hooked up with Vicki and Katie at the rest stop so we were back up to a team of 4. The last 12 miles from the rest stop were spent fighting the wind. Fortunately it was not all headwind but the side wind was no fun either.
We were disappointed that there was no Welcome to North Dakota sign on the county road we were on. Almost immediately after crossing the Red River we were in Fargo and had a bike trail most of the way to camp at the Lindenwood Park.
Lindenwood Park is very nice. The scenery is not as good as last nights stay in Fergus Falls but the facilities are much better. I put up my tent, took a shower and my biking group immediately went out via Uber for Thai food. That would not have been my choice but it turned out very well. I had Sweet and Sour Pork. My second Uber ride was to downtown to a Craft Beer pub where I had a root beer and we played Jenga. Another Uber ride brought us back to camp.
Tomorrow is a long day so we will be departing at 6 AM. Time for bed.
We had some very light rain in the night and there was still a drop or two falling as we left camp. No problems except the rain fly was damp when packed.
We were off at about 7:30 AM. It was cloudy, cool and humid. Since it was cool the humidity just made it a little clammy. The first 3-4 miles was through Fergus Falls part which was on the bike trail which was very rough. The last 3-4 days we have enjoyed very flat terrain. Coming out of Fergus Falls there were a lot of hills although none were of the steep New England variety. Everyone commented on how much easier the hills were for them after 38 days of riding. I started noticing it yesterday but the amount of trees is definitely diminishing. Before long we will be in prairie. But not quite yet.
The first rest stop was 30 miles away in Brownsville, MN. It was a relaxed ride at a relaxed pace with lots of photo opportunities. At the first rest stop we decided to have breakfast at the Muddy Moose which was probably a mistake. The food was very good but it took 90 minutes to eat.
Our group thinned out at the first rest stop. We were down to 4 because Sharon and Alison didn't want to wait for breakfast. We ran into some cyclists traveling east from Portland to Boston stopped at a spot where there were dozens of old shoes tacked onto telephone poles and fence posts. I would like to know the story behind them. By the time we reached the second rest stop my group was down to just Catherine and myself. Katie and Vicki had dropped back.
The wind had picked up by the time we left the second rest stop and for about 10 miles it was a strong tailwind allowing us to fly along at 20 mph. Unfortunately we changed direction first giving us a side wind and then a head wind. The last 18 miles were not near as fun. We stopped at an ice cream shop for the 3rd rest stop and I had a root beer float which was excellent. We hooked up with Vicki and Katie at the rest stop so we were back up to a team of 4. The last 12 miles from the rest stop were spent fighting the wind. Fortunately it was not all headwind but the side wind was no fun either.
We were disappointed that there was no Welcome to North Dakota sign on the county road we were on. Almost immediately after crossing the Red River we were in Fargo and had a bike trail most of the way to camp at the Lindenwood Park.
Lindenwood Park is very nice. The scenery is not as good as last nights stay in Fergus Falls but the facilities are much better. I put up my tent, took a shower and my biking group immediately went out via Uber for Thai food. That would not have been my choice but it turned out very well. I had Sweet and Sour Pork. My second Uber ride was to downtown to a Craft Beer pub where I had a root beer and we played Jenga. Another Uber ride brought us back to camp.
Tomorrow is a long day so we will be departing at 6 AM. Time for bed.
Goodbye Minnesota. It has been fun.
Shoes on the poles and fence posts. There was a 1/4 mile of these.
Sweet and Sour Pork at Thai restaurant in Fargo, ND
Day + 38 July 4, 2016
Osakis, MN to Fergus Falls, MN 64 miles
I slept in a room off the foyer of Osakis High School. Many people wanted that room when we got in the high school but most moved out when they found out all of the lights could not be turned off. I was in a corner that was fairly dark and I pulled a large table near me to block the light. After years on an aircraft carrier I can sleep just about anywhere.
I woke up at 5 AM and had to go to the bathroom which was off the foyer. When I moved lights on motion detectors started to light and the fountain in the foyer turned on.
I changed up my curbside breakfast to peanut butter and strawberry jam on a sandwich thin. I was getting tired of the peanut butter and honey on a tortilla. I also finished up the cherries that I bought last night.
We headed out around 8 AM. The entire 56 miles to camp was on the Central Lakes State Trail. Minnesota has had the best cycling because of their fantastic trail system. We have been mostly on trails since 40 miles before Minneapolis. The Central Lakes State Trail was wide and smooth. Every town we passed today was on a lake as is our campground. We only had one rest stop at Evansville.
The casualty of the day to my bike was the crank arm fell off about 10 miles into the ride. I had been hearing a noise when pedaling hard for months and I thought it was my shoe squeaking. The noise was gone when I put the crank arm back on and tightened it up.
The terrain was easy today and I am definitely getting stronger. We had an 18-20 mph pace the last 25 miles after the rest stop.
Camp is at the Delagon State Park in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. It is a beautiful campground on a nice lake but the facilities leave a lot to be desired. An outhouse is all there is.
We decided to go into town to get something to eat before changing. Fergus Falls is a 3 mile bike ride and we found nothing but fast food open in town. Another 2 mile ride brought us to the highway and there was an open Applebees.
We passed a mall with a movie theater on the way back to camp and stopped to watch The Central Intelligence Agency. If you haven't seen it don't go. I paid $6 to sleep in an air conditioned space for 2 hours.
After the movie we biked the 5 miles back to camp. I setup my tent and then jumped into the lake for a swim/bath. It felt good and did what it needed to do.
The Route Leaders are fixing dinner for us. Fergus Falls is not having any fireworks or other festivities. I expect it will be dinner and then bed for me.
I slept in a room off the foyer of Osakis High School. Many people wanted that room when we got in the high school but most moved out when they found out all of the lights could not be turned off. I was in a corner that was fairly dark and I pulled a large table near me to block the light. After years on an aircraft carrier I can sleep just about anywhere.
I woke up at 5 AM and had to go to the bathroom which was off the foyer. When I moved lights on motion detectors started to light and the fountain in the foyer turned on.
I changed up my curbside breakfast to peanut butter and strawberry jam on a sandwich thin. I was getting tired of the peanut butter and honey on a tortilla. I also finished up the cherries that I bought last night.
We headed out around 8 AM. The entire 56 miles to camp was on the Central Lakes State Trail. Minnesota has had the best cycling because of their fantastic trail system. We have been mostly on trails since 40 miles before Minneapolis. The Central Lakes State Trail was wide and smooth. Every town we passed today was on a lake as is our campground. We only had one rest stop at Evansville.
The casualty of the day to my bike was the crank arm fell off about 10 miles into the ride. I had been hearing a noise when pedaling hard for months and I thought it was my shoe squeaking. The noise was gone when I put the crank arm back on and tightened it up.
The terrain was easy today and I am definitely getting stronger. We had an 18-20 mph pace the last 25 miles after the rest stop.
Camp is at the Delagon State Park in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. It is a beautiful campground on a nice lake but the facilities leave a lot to be desired. An outhouse is all there is.
We decided to go into town to get something to eat before changing. Fergus Falls is a 3 mile bike ride and we found nothing but fast food open in town. Another 2 mile ride brought us to the highway and there was an open Applebees.
We passed a mall with a movie theater on the way back to camp and stopped to watch The Central Intelligence Agency. If you haven't seen it don't go. I paid $6 to sleep in an air conditioned space for 2 hours.
After the movie we biked the 5 miles back to camp. I setup my tent and then jumped into the lake for a swim/bath. It felt good and did what it needed to do.
The Route Leaders are fixing dinner for us. Fergus Falls is not having any fireworks or other festivities. I expect it will be dinner and then bed for me.
Day + 37 July 3, 2016
Royalton, MN to Osakis, MN 60 miles.
The Royalton Sportsman Club had breakfast for us in the morning. I had fruit and a donut before setting out about 8 AM.
Less than a half mile into the ride I had a flat on the rear tire. Replacing the tube took less than 10 minutes and we were on our way again. Less than 2 miles later we were on a trail for the rest of the day. We were on the Soo Line Trail an the Lake Wobegon Spur Trail. Both were excellent trails and easy riding. I especially enjoyed the ride to the first rest stop. We went at a leisurely pace and had several stops for pictures.
After the first rest stop in Freeport, MN the pace picked up. Still not a hard ride but not as enjoyable. At the second rest stop Katie, Catherine and I went to DQ where I had a chocolate shake.
Things got interesting when we got to Osakis or O-Town as the locals call it. We were supposed to spend the night in a church but that fell through at the last minute so at 1 PM when we arrived we were officially homeless. The Route Leaders told us to find something to occupy ourselves while they worked the problem.
Several bikers had arrived in Osakis before us and they settled in at the O-Town Tavern so that is where we headed. It was more of a restaurant than a tavern and had both inside and outside seating. Most of us opted for the inside seating. I had a Gyro and fries.
As luck would have it two of our smooth talking bikers, Grant and Luke, were seated outside next to an employee of the High School. They struck up a conversation and before long they had arranged for us to stay at the Osakis High School. This was better accommodations that the church where we were originally scheduled to stay.
The itinerary was shower, laundry, grocery shopping and finally ice cream. There was no cell service in the school and little outside so no blog. I was sleeping in a little room next to the foyer with the school trophies. Bedtime was around 9 PM.
The Royalton Sportsman Club had breakfast for us in the morning. I had fruit and a donut before setting out about 8 AM.
Less than a half mile into the ride I had a flat on the rear tire. Replacing the tube took less than 10 minutes and we were on our way again. Less than 2 miles later we were on a trail for the rest of the day. We were on the Soo Line Trail an the Lake Wobegon Spur Trail. Both were excellent trails and easy riding. I especially enjoyed the ride to the first rest stop. We went at a leisurely pace and had several stops for pictures.
After the first rest stop in Freeport, MN the pace picked up. Still not a hard ride but not as enjoyable. At the second rest stop Katie, Catherine and I went to DQ where I had a chocolate shake.
Things got interesting when we got to Osakis or O-Town as the locals call it. We were supposed to spend the night in a church but that fell through at the last minute so at 1 PM when we arrived we were officially homeless. The Route Leaders told us to find something to occupy ourselves while they worked the problem.
Several bikers had arrived in Osakis before us and they settled in at the O-Town Tavern so that is where we headed. It was more of a restaurant than a tavern and had both inside and outside seating. Most of us opted for the inside seating. I had a Gyro and fries.
As luck would have it two of our smooth talking bikers, Grant and Luke, were seated outside next to an employee of the High School. They struck up a conversation and before long they had arranged for us to stay at the Osakis High School. This was better accommodations that the church where we were originally scheduled to stay.
The itinerary was shower, laundry, grocery shopping and finally ice cream. There was no cell service in the school and little outside so no blog. I was sleeping in a little room next to the foyer with the school trophies. Bedtime was around 9 PM.
Day + 36 July 2, 2016
Dalbo, MN to Royalton, MN 60 miles.
According to my teammates there were bats in the upper level of The Bicycle Bunkhouse last night. You could not prove it by me as I was out hard from the time my head hit the pillow until 5 AM.
We had breakfast at The Bicycle Bunkhouse consisting of scrambled eggs, toast and cereal before shooting a team photo with Don, the bunkhouse proprietor and then heading out. My group normally departs early so this was a little late.
We had several stops prior to the first rest stop. Our theme of the day for photos was horses and just a few miles into the ride we came across a group of approximately 40 mares all with colts. Just a while later we stopped to photograph two colts but they bolted before we got close enough. However across the road was a horse that came to the fence for us soon followed by a woman and her daughter. We had a nice conversation and got info on the next several towns.
Our first rest stop, Anoka, was small and we just got water, rested a few minutes and left. The second rest stop was Saint Francis which consisted of two bar/convenience stores and nothing else. Our pace was quicker than I lie all day but after the second rest stop it was even faster. Our group split because some of us could not keep up. We arrived in Royalton about 5 minutes after the first group. All of us had lunch at a bar/restaurant in Royalton which was very good. I had a BLT.
After lunch we headed to our campground about 3 miles form town. A local MS group had put several motivational signs along the road which we stopped and photographed. My favorite read "It seemed like a good idea months ago and it still is".
We arrived at the campground around 3 PM and had a full agenda. First they took us on a tubing trip on the Mississippi River which was a lot of fun. We got back at 6PM and went right into a dinner and small awards ceremony. These MS programs have all been emotional and this one was no different. It takes a lot of courage to live with MS or care for someone with MS. Listening to their stories is hard sometimes. They are always appreciative of our fundraising but more importantly raising awareness of MS.
A quick shower after dinner and then its time for the sack.
According to my teammates there were bats in the upper level of The Bicycle Bunkhouse last night. You could not prove it by me as I was out hard from the time my head hit the pillow until 5 AM.
We had breakfast at The Bicycle Bunkhouse consisting of scrambled eggs, toast and cereal before shooting a team photo with Don, the bunkhouse proprietor and then heading out. My group normally departs early so this was a little late.
We had several stops prior to the first rest stop. Our theme of the day for photos was horses and just a few miles into the ride we came across a group of approximately 40 mares all with colts. Just a while later we stopped to photograph two colts but they bolted before we got close enough. However across the road was a horse that came to the fence for us soon followed by a woman and her daughter. We had a nice conversation and got info on the next several towns.
Our first rest stop, Anoka, was small and we just got water, rested a few minutes and left. The second rest stop was Saint Francis which consisted of two bar/convenience stores and nothing else. Our pace was quicker than I lie all day but after the second rest stop it was even faster. Our group split because some of us could not keep up. We arrived in Royalton about 5 minutes after the first group. All of us had lunch at a bar/restaurant in Royalton which was very good. I had a BLT.
After lunch we headed to our campground about 3 miles form town. A local MS group had put several motivational signs along the road which we stopped and photographed. My favorite read "It seemed like a good idea months ago and it still is".
We arrived at the campground around 3 PM and had a full agenda. First they took us on a tubing trip on the Mississippi River which was a lot of fun. We got back at 6PM and went right into a dinner and small awards ceremony. These MS programs have all been emotional and this one was no different. It takes a lot of courage to live with MS or care for someone with MS. Listening to their stories is hard sometimes. They are always appreciative of our fundraising but more importantly raising awareness of MS.
A quick shower after dinner and then its time for the sack.
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Horses along the road near Anoka, MN
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Day + 35 July 1, 2016
Minneapolis, MN to Dalbo, MN 58 miles.
Minneapolis is an incredible cycling town. There are bike trails everywhere including into and out of the city. Our dorm on the University of Minnesota was very comfortable but it is time to move on. Seattle is a long way off.
I got up early and went to Hard Times Café before departure. As I was eating Buffy texted me that the group was going to eat on the way out of town. Guess where they went. Hard Times Café.
I spent almost an hour trying to figure out the map from Adventure Cycling Association without success. About the time I gave up I got an email with our modified route which was much simpler.
Both Katie and Vicki had the route on Google Maps on their phone so I just followed them. Makes staying on course easy for me.
Our route out of town was on a bike path along the Mississippi River for the first twenty miles. This was very pleasant and relaxing. With a perfect cool and calm day you could not get better cycling. The last 5 miles until the first rest stop in Anoka was on a road. Still not bad.
The next 18 miles was not near as good. We were on a road with a narrow shoulder so you had to be on your toes all of the time. There were no problems just not as fun.
The final 18 miles were still on a road but the shoulder was slightly wider. We had no problems until about 3 miles from camp when Catherine had a blowout. The tire was ruined so we called the van for support. Unfortunately all of the tires were in the other van so Catherine and her bike got a free lift to camp. I was right behind Catherine when her tire blew and it was quite a site. There was a big puff of dust where the air in the tire And it sounded like a gunshot.
We our staying at the Bicycle Bunkhouse. It is a structure that was constructed by a farmer to house transiting cyclists. On the first floor there are 3 bedrooms, a kitchen and a common area. Upstairs there is a large open bay sleeping area. Outside there is a silo with 2 cots. I am in the open area upstairs. Dan the proprietor has stocked the kitchen with food and snacks that he sells at a very reasonable price. There is an outdoor shower and outhouse.
Dan also fixed a picnic dinner for us which was very good. Sloppy Joes, hot dogs, brats, baked beans, corn on the cob and watermelon for desert.
Ethan posed for photos in the hayloft door showing off his tan lines. For all of your sakes I will not show them here. We also had a group phot after dinner.
Today is Canada day so we are giving our Canadian rider, Katie, a little extra jazz today. All in good fun.
Minneapolis is an incredible cycling town. There are bike trails everywhere including into and out of the city. Our dorm on the University of Minnesota was very comfortable but it is time to move on. Seattle is a long way off.
I got up early and went to Hard Times Café before departure. As I was eating Buffy texted me that the group was going to eat on the way out of town. Guess where they went. Hard Times Café.
I spent almost an hour trying to figure out the map from Adventure Cycling Association without success. About the time I gave up I got an email with our modified route which was much simpler.
Both Katie and Vicki had the route on Google Maps on their phone so I just followed them. Makes staying on course easy for me.
Our route out of town was on a bike path along the Mississippi River for the first twenty miles. This was very pleasant and relaxing. With a perfect cool and calm day you could not get better cycling. The last 5 miles until the first rest stop in Anoka was on a road. Still not bad.
The next 18 miles was not near as good. We were on a road with a narrow shoulder so you had to be on your toes all of the time. There were no problems just not as fun.
The final 18 miles were still on a road but the shoulder was slightly wider. We had no problems until about 3 miles from camp when Catherine had a blowout. The tire was ruined so we called the van for support. Unfortunately all of the tires were in the other van so Catherine and her bike got a free lift to camp. I was right behind Catherine when her tire blew and it was quite a site. There was a big puff of dust where the air in the tire And it sounded like a gunshot.
We our staying at the Bicycle Bunkhouse. It is a structure that was constructed by a farmer to house transiting cyclists. On the first floor there are 3 bedrooms, a kitchen and a common area. Upstairs there is a large open bay sleeping area. Outside there is a silo with 2 cots. I am in the open area upstairs. Dan the proprietor has stocked the kitchen with food and snacks that he sells at a very reasonable price. There is an outdoor shower and outhouse.
Dan also fixed a picnic dinner for us which was very good. Sloppy Joes, hot dogs, brats, baked beans, corn on the cob and watermelon for desert.
Ethan posed for photos in the hayloft door showing off his tan lines. For all of your sakes I will not show them here. We also had a group phot after dinner.
Today is Canada day so we are giving our Canadian rider, Katie, a little extra jazz today. All in good fun.
We have had several days biking along the Mississippi. This will be our last.
More Mississippi River
Bicycle Bunkhouse Lounge
Bicycle Bunkhouse Lounge
Bicycle Bunkhouse Upper Level
Day + 34 June 30, 2016
Minneapolis Rest Day Number 2
A small group of us decided to go to Al's breakfast at 6:30 AM but there was a big thunderstorm so we delayed until 7:30. At 7:30 you would not know there previously was a storm. They skies were clear and the streets were mostly dry.
Big Al's is in Dinky Town which is a little over a mile from the dorm we are staying in at the University of Minnesota. It is a little joint with 14 bar stools and no tables. We had to wait about 15 minutes to sit down. Big Al's is my kind of joint. Uniquely decorated with Christmas lights and a big board of foreign money running along the front wall it is set up so you can see everything that goes on. I had 2 poached eggs with corned beef hash. I really wanted to try a blueberry pancake but didn't think the stomach had the capacity. Everything was good.
After walking back to the dorm I took a little nap. I left my room with my bike to ride to the Minneapolis MS Achievement Center and went down to the vans. By this time the storm clouds had gathered again and it was sprinkling so the bike went back up to the room and we rode in the vans.
The MS Achievement Center was in an industrial area. It had a very nice garden outside which was very nice and peaceful compared to its surroundings. The MS patients and staff were lining the hallway as we entered and we got a rousing welcome. It was pretty awesome. The MS Achievement Center is a day facility that patients come to only a couple days per week depending on what they can afford. After filing into the Activity room the staff asked each of us to select a person to eat lunch with. I paired up with Barb who was wheelchair bound and has MS for 29 years. I was at a table with 3 riders and Ryan (Alison's husband) and 5 MS patients. We had a very nice lunch and conversation.
Barb's story was very sad. She was diagnosed with MS 6 months after she married 30 years ago. She said her husband could not cope with the illness although they are still friends. She lives in a nursing home and comes to the MS Achievement Center 1 day per week.
The MS Achievement Center had a program which included an award for a MS caregiver, a song written by one of the patients about our bike trip and a check presented by Bike the US for MS for $15,000. We also got a headband which Barb autographed for me even though it was very difficult for here to write. As a finale we all filed outside for a group photo shot.
We are having a lot of fun on this trip but these types of visits really bring home why we are doing this ride.
The afternoon consisted of another walk to Dinky Town for dinner and laundry. Tomorrow we hit the road again.
A small group of us decided to go to Al's breakfast at 6:30 AM but there was a big thunderstorm so we delayed until 7:30. At 7:30 you would not know there previously was a storm. They skies were clear and the streets were mostly dry.
Big Al's is in Dinky Town which is a little over a mile from the dorm we are staying in at the University of Minnesota. It is a little joint with 14 bar stools and no tables. We had to wait about 15 minutes to sit down. Big Al's is my kind of joint. Uniquely decorated with Christmas lights and a big board of foreign money running along the front wall it is set up so you can see everything that goes on. I had 2 poached eggs with corned beef hash. I really wanted to try a blueberry pancake but didn't think the stomach had the capacity. Everything was good.
After walking back to the dorm I took a little nap. I left my room with my bike to ride to the Minneapolis MS Achievement Center and went down to the vans. By this time the storm clouds had gathered again and it was sprinkling so the bike went back up to the room and we rode in the vans.
The MS Achievement Center was in an industrial area. It had a very nice garden outside which was very nice and peaceful compared to its surroundings. The MS patients and staff were lining the hallway as we entered and we got a rousing welcome. It was pretty awesome. The MS Achievement Center is a day facility that patients come to only a couple days per week depending on what they can afford. After filing into the Activity room the staff asked each of us to select a person to eat lunch with. I paired up with Barb who was wheelchair bound and has MS for 29 years. I was at a table with 3 riders and Ryan (Alison's husband) and 5 MS patients. We had a very nice lunch and conversation.
Barb's story was very sad. She was diagnosed with MS 6 months after she married 30 years ago. She said her husband could not cope with the illness although they are still friends. She lives in a nursing home and comes to the MS Achievement Center 1 day per week.
The MS Achievement Center had a program which included an award for a MS caregiver, a song written by one of the patients about our bike trip and a check presented by Bike the US for MS for $15,000. We also got a headband which Barb autographed for me even though it was very difficult for here to write. As a finale we all filed outside for a group photo shot.
We are having a lot of fun on this trip but these types of visits really bring home why we are doing this ride.
The afternoon consisted of another walk to Dinky Town for dinner and laundry. Tomorrow we hit the road again.
The Minneapolis MS Achievement Center Activity Room
The song John composed for us.
Group photo shot with the Big Check
Day + 33 June 29, 2016
Minneapolis, MN Rest Day
Rest day is a little misnomer since we do service projects on rest days. Today the Northern Tier team broke into 2 groups for 2 different service projects. This felt so much like doing community service during my Navy days.
My team consisted of Don, Sharon, Jennifer, Chandler, Stefan and myself. Our service project recipient is a single mother with 2 children and suffers from MS. We only have a few hours and a few people to complete our projects so the scope can't be super complicated. Susan's house had numerous issues beyond our capabilities. We focused on yard cleanup, fence and gate maintenance and painting a window. My primary responsibilities were Senior Weed whacker Operator and Window painter. Gate reconstruction was probably the hardest job .Pizza was supplied by Bike the US for MS.
Rest day is a little misnomer since we do service projects on rest days. Today the Northern Tier team broke into 2 groups for 2 different service projects. This felt so much like doing community service during my Navy days.
My team consisted of Don, Sharon, Jennifer, Chandler, Stefan and myself. Our service project recipient is a single mother with 2 children and suffers from MS. We only have a few hours and a few people to complete our projects so the scope can't be super complicated. Susan's house had numerous issues beyond our capabilities. We focused on yard cleanup, fence and gate maintenance and painting a window. My primary responsibilities were Senior Weed whacker Operator and Window painter. Gate reconstruction was probably the hardest job .Pizza was supplied by Bike the US for MS.
Minneapolis Service Project window painting.
Don, Bike the US for MS founder comes all the way from Blacksburg to help with the service project.
Yesterday I left my bike at Free Wheel Bike in Minneapolis to have the bike computer fixed and install a new chain. Just as we finished our service project they called to tell me the bike was ready but there was an issue with the rear wheel. It seems there are some cracks developing. The wheel is under warranty but they needed my receipt for the bike and could not get a new wheel until Saturday. That will not work since we are leaving Minneapolis on Thursday.
As an alternative I called the place I purchased my bike and they arranged for a new wheel to be delivered to our rest stop in Bismarck, North Dakota on 8 July. All they needed was pictures of the cracks. Taking visible pictures of tiny cracks in a black bicycle wheel is not an easy thing to do.
A big thank you to Bike Beat in Chesapeake for arranging for my new wheel in only a couple of hours. Another big thank you to Trek warranty service.
As an alternative I called the place I purchased my bike and they arranged for a new wheel to be delivered to our rest stop in Bismarck, North Dakota on 8 July. All they needed was pictures of the cracks. Taking visible pictures of tiny cracks in a black bicycle wheel is not an easy thing to do.
A big thank you to Bike Beat in Chesapeake for arranging for my new wheel in only a couple of hours. Another big thank you to Trek warranty service.
Day + 32 June 28, 2016
Prescott, WI to Minneapolis, MN 52 miles
Last night our accommodations were the Joy Lutheran Church in Prescott, WI. I slept in The Lions Den, a preschool classroom. Again the departure time was 6 AM so the alarm sounded at 5. It was only 55 degrees at departure time so out came the jackets.
Immediately after heading out we crossed the Mississippi River back into Minnesota and headed north toward Minneapolis. The hills were noticeably smaller than yesterday making the riding easier. We had a group of 6 today and surprisingly mostly stayed together. Rest stop 1 was in Stillwater, Minnesota. Entering town we encountered road construction requiring a minor detour.
Just prior to the rest stop we had the steepest hill I have ever descended. A gentleman at the top said the slope was 33 degrees. I probably don't have to tell you that I had both brakes on and one foot unclipped. Good thing we were going down because I could never ride up that hill.
Last night our accommodations were the Joy Lutheran Church in Prescott, WI. I slept in The Lions Den, a preschool classroom. Again the departure time was 6 AM so the alarm sounded at 5. It was only 55 degrees at departure time so out came the jackets.
Immediately after heading out we crossed the Mississippi River back into Minnesota and headed north toward Minneapolis. The hills were noticeably smaller than yesterday making the riding easier. We had a group of 6 today and surprisingly mostly stayed together. Rest stop 1 was in Stillwater, Minnesota. Entering town we encountered road construction requiring a minor detour.
Just prior to the rest stop we had the steepest hill I have ever descended. A gentleman at the top said the slope was 33 degrees. I probably don't have to tell you that I had both brakes on and one foot unclipped. Good thing we were going down because I could never ride up that hill.
There was even a street named after me.
Hill with 33% slope in Stillwater, MN
Shortly after the rest stop we cycled on the Gateway State Trail for almost 20 miles into St Paul, MN. It was fabulous riding. Smooth, level and with no wind or cars. We crossed quite a few roads but even the ones with traffic were no problem because the cars always stopped to let us cross.
Gateway State Trail
Selfie along the Gateway State Trail in Saint Paul, MN
At the end of the trail we entered the streets of St Paul, MN. I didn't even pay attention to the map and just followed the lead cyclist. They were using google maps on their phones to guide us. At our second rest stop animal control was retrieving a snapping turtle stuck under a car. This drew quite a crowd.
Turtle under a car in the parking lot at a rest stop
This is one unhappy snapping turtle. Time to go home big fella.
The remainder of the day's ride was on city streets. Minneapolis is very bike friendly and most streets had bike lanes. We were soon on the University of Minnesota campus where we will be staying the next 3 nights in a dorm.
First view of Minneapolis, MN. No we were not on this road.
I get a room to myself since my designated roommate, Bruce, is no longer with us. The dorm is fairly new and in good condition. I have a bathroom directly across the hall from my room.
The agenda was shower, lunch, bike repair and laundry.
Lunch was at The Red Sea, and Ethiopian restaurant. I had a beef dish that was very good and very spicy. The lips were tingling at the end of lunch.
The agenda was shower, lunch, bike repair and laundry.
Lunch was at The Red Sea, and Ethiopian restaurant. I had a beef dish that was very good and very spicy. The lips were tingling at the end of lunch.
Lunch at Ethiopian restaurant in Minneapolis
The bike repair did not go exactly as planned. The bike shop replaced both the bike computer and sensor but still could not get the computer to work so I am having them install a very basic computer. I will have Bike Beat in Chesapeake fix the computer when I get back home. This will give me speed and distance which is all I really need. They also checked my chain and it needs replacing and the rear brake needs adjusting. My first chain had 4000 miles on it and still had wear but this one only lasted 2000 miles. The hills I have been riding are much tougher miles than my rides in Virginia. I will pick up my bike tomorrow afternoon.
Day + 31 June 27, 2016
Wabasha, MN to Prescott, WI 61 miles
A fairly short post and a short riding crew today. All the men riders except me decided to skip the next two days rides and head to Minneapolis instead to get an extra rest day. Not an option for me since 120 miles at their speed would put me in my grave.
Last night was spent at Faith Lutheran Church in Wabasha, MN. We could bunk down anywhere and I chose a spot between two AC vents with an outlet. Showers were available from the pool next door and we walked into town for dinner at a Mexican restaurant. On the way back I persuaded a closed bike shop to sell me a bottle of chain lube.
I assumed this mornings starting time was 6 AM and was ready but it was really 7 AM. Catherine is leaving us for a couple of days for her academic work. This really disappoints me since she rides near my speed and is also a delightful biking companion.
Todays theme was hills and we had them in a big way. The biggest came only a couple of miles out of Wabasha. Surprisingly the cold legs didn't complain much and I made it to the top without stopping. Some of the cyclists much faster than me today and some were much slower. As a result I rode much of the route to the first rest stop by my self. I really do not like that. Near the rest stop Vickki caught up with me and I continued to the rest stop with here. Most of the rest of the day I rode with Alison and then part time with Sharon and Jennifer.
We ended up having another big climb before getting to rest stop one. Not as big as the first one but still significant. One good thing about the hills is the every changing scenery. Between the hills, the Mississippi River and the gorgeous overlooks we could not ask for more.
There was also another big climb before rest stop 2. The good part about every climb is there is a descent where the dare devils can race to the bottom and the sane riders can take a more cautious ride down.
Red Wing is the birthplace of Red Wing shoes they are not manufactured there any longer. Sharon, Alison and I all had BLT sandwiches and they were the best of the trip. Sharon and Alison have a heated competition to see who can eat the most BLT sandwiches.
Right after lunch we crossed the Mississippi River into Wisconsin and it was not a real pleasant crossing. The bridge was narrow causing us to impede traffic. Fortunately most of the cars and trucks were courteous and safe. Also fortunately we exited that busy road right after crossing the bridge. We did have another small portion of busy highway before getting on a less traveled route. Our route is mapped by the American Cycle Association and they do a good job of keeping us off of busy highways.
We then had about 19 miles of hills to Prescott, WI. Of course we did not know that so after a big climb is done we thought the rest would be easier but as soon as the descent was completed there was another big climb. Then a continuing series of smaller hills. Thirty one days into the trip I am much more prepared to handle this kind of challenge. I was definitely tired when the days ride was over but three weeks ago I would have been totally exhausted.
Unfortunately when transferring my GoPro videos I found out that my memory card was full and none of the videos I have recorded so far have been retained. Oh well.
A fairly short post and a short riding crew today. All the men riders except me decided to skip the next two days rides and head to Minneapolis instead to get an extra rest day. Not an option for me since 120 miles at their speed would put me in my grave.
Last night was spent at Faith Lutheran Church in Wabasha, MN. We could bunk down anywhere and I chose a spot between two AC vents with an outlet. Showers were available from the pool next door and we walked into town for dinner at a Mexican restaurant. On the way back I persuaded a closed bike shop to sell me a bottle of chain lube.
I assumed this mornings starting time was 6 AM and was ready but it was really 7 AM. Catherine is leaving us for a couple of days for her academic work. This really disappoints me since she rides near my speed and is also a delightful biking companion.
Todays theme was hills and we had them in a big way. The biggest came only a couple of miles out of Wabasha. Surprisingly the cold legs didn't complain much and I made it to the top without stopping. Some of the cyclists much faster than me today and some were much slower. As a result I rode much of the route to the first rest stop by my self. I really do not like that. Near the rest stop Vickki caught up with me and I continued to the rest stop with here. Most of the rest of the day I rode with Alison and then part time with Sharon and Jennifer.
We ended up having another big climb before getting to rest stop one. Not as big as the first one but still significant. One good thing about the hills is the every changing scenery. Between the hills, the Mississippi River and the gorgeous overlooks we could not ask for more.
There was also another big climb before rest stop 2. The good part about every climb is there is a descent where the dare devils can race to the bottom and the sane riders can take a more cautious ride down.
Red Wing is the birthplace of Red Wing shoes they are not manufactured there any longer. Sharon, Alison and I all had BLT sandwiches and they were the best of the trip. Sharon and Alison have a heated competition to see who can eat the most BLT sandwiches.
Right after lunch we crossed the Mississippi River into Wisconsin and it was not a real pleasant crossing. The bridge was narrow causing us to impede traffic. Fortunately most of the cars and trucks were courteous and safe. Also fortunately we exited that busy road right after crossing the bridge. We did have another small portion of busy highway before getting on a less traveled route. Our route is mapped by the American Cycle Association and they do a good job of keeping us off of busy highways.
We then had about 19 miles of hills to Prescott, WI. Of course we did not know that so after a big climb is done we thought the rest would be easier but as soon as the descent was completed there was another big climb. Then a continuing series of smaller hills. Thirty one days into the trip I am much more prepared to handle this kind of challenge. I was definitely tired when the days ride was over but three weeks ago I would have been totally exhausted.
Unfortunately when transferring my GoPro videos I found out that my memory card was full and none of the videos I have recorded so far have been retained. Oh well.
Near the top of our first climb overlooking the Mississippi River near Wabasha, MN
I liked the cupola on this barn Lake City, MN
This is a lake fed by the Mississippi River at Lake City, MN. This is the birthplace of water skiing.
These Bike the US for MS signs are how our Route Leaders direct. us to Rest Stops and Home for the night. This is at Joy Lutheran Church in Prescott, WI
Day + 30 June 26, 2016
Brownsville, MN to Wabasha, MN 77 miles.
It's funny but I have to look up where we spent the night before when writing this. My entire focus is on cycling the next 20-30 miles to the next rest stop. After meeting that objective the next goal gets loaded in memory and the previous one is flushed. The Route Leaders told us at the beginning of this trip that the way to bike across country is 20 miles at a time.
Last night we stayed at the farm of Barb and Dan Hurley. We were originally scheduled to stay in a community park but it was being used and they volunteered to let us camp in their yard but they had us stay inside because of the heat and storms forecast for overnight. We all stayed in the lower level of their home. We have learned to adapt to different spaces and we are a fairly small group so there was no problem. Barb fed us dinner and breakfast, entertained us, gave us treats and anything else we could need. They were very generous and the team is extremely grateful.
Our ride started at 7 AM this morning so that we could have breakfast at the Hurleys. The first 10 miles to Crescent were pretty foggy. We stopped at Barb and Dan's daughters house for a bathroom break before heading on.
From Crescent we had a detour due to road construction. The detour started out with a big climb up to a plateau that looked out over the Mississippi River valley for several miles. There were beautiful views of the river and also beautiful houses and country to see. Our first rest stop at Nodine was on this plateau.
After a brief stop in Nodine we headed out. We had a few more miles on the plateau before a big descent back down into the river valley and back to Route 61 where we spent most of the day. Many of the riders were bragging about how fast they went on the descent. I could not tell how fast I went because my speedometer decided to take the day off like it does periodically. My speed was nowhere near as fast as many because I use the brakes liberally. The fastest I have been on a descent with a working speedometer is 41 and that was for only a short time. The rest of the ride to Winona at mile 37 was along the Mississippi River.
The third rest stop was alongside of the road near Minneiska at mile 54. Even though it was getting hotter it was still only 88 which is much better than the 92 with 60% humidity we had yesterday.
The last 22 miles we had a 12 mph headwind which is getting pesky but not punishing yet. At the beginning of this trip I would have said 12 mph headwind was hard. Nonetheless I was tired by the time I arrived in Wabasha. Our overnight accommodations are a Lutheran church. I have the huge Fellowship Hall with only 2 other people. We showered across the street at the community pool and
walked downtown for Mexican food. On the way back to the church we stopped at a closed bike shop and I convinced them to sell me some chain lube.
Today was trailer cleanout day so we had to empty our main cubbies, food cubbies and day cubbies for cleanout. After repacking the cubbies we had a short team meeting.
Two more days to Minneapolis and 2 rest days. A few days ago I was pretty tired and wanted the rest days ASAP but I seem to have rejuvenated yesterday and today. I still want the rest days but it is not as urgent as before.
It's funny but I have to look up where we spent the night before when writing this. My entire focus is on cycling the next 20-30 miles to the next rest stop. After meeting that objective the next goal gets loaded in memory and the previous one is flushed. The Route Leaders told us at the beginning of this trip that the way to bike across country is 20 miles at a time.
Last night we stayed at the farm of Barb and Dan Hurley. We were originally scheduled to stay in a community park but it was being used and they volunteered to let us camp in their yard but they had us stay inside because of the heat and storms forecast for overnight. We all stayed in the lower level of their home. We have learned to adapt to different spaces and we are a fairly small group so there was no problem. Barb fed us dinner and breakfast, entertained us, gave us treats and anything else we could need. They were very generous and the team is extremely grateful.
Our ride started at 7 AM this morning so that we could have breakfast at the Hurleys. The first 10 miles to Crescent were pretty foggy. We stopped at Barb and Dan's daughters house for a bathroom break before heading on.
From Crescent we had a detour due to road construction. The detour started out with a big climb up to a plateau that looked out over the Mississippi River valley for several miles. There were beautiful views of the river and also beautiful houses and country to see. Our first rest stop at Nodine was on this plateau.
After a brief stop in Nodine we headed out. We had a few more miles on the plateau before a big descent back down into the river valley and back to Route 61 where we spent most of the day. Many of the riders were bragging about how fast they went on the descent. I could not tell how fast I went because my speedometer decided to take the day off like it does periodically. My speed was nowhere near as fast as many because I use the brakes liberally. The fastest I have been on a descent with a working speedometer is 41 and that was for only a short time. The rest of the ride to Winona at mile 37 was along the Mississippi River.
The third rest stop was alongside of the road near Minneiska at mile 54. Even though it was getting hotter it was still only 88 which is much better than the 92 with 60% humidity we had yesterday.
The last 22 miles we had a 12 mph headwind which is getting pesky but not punishing yet. At the beginning of this trip I would have said 12 mph headwind was hard. Nonetheless I was tired by the time I arrived in Wabasha. Our overnight accommodations are a Lutheran church. I have the huge Fellowship Hall with only 2 other people. We showered across the street at the community pool and
walked downtown for Mexican food. On the way back to the church we stopped at a closed bike shop and I convinced them to sell me some chain lube.
Today was trailer cleanout day so we had to empty our main cubbies, food cubbies and day cubbies for cleanout. After repacking the cubbies we had a short team meeting.
Two more days to Minneapolis and 2 rest days. A few days ago I was pretty tired and wanted the rest days ASAP but I seem to have rejuvenated yesterday and today. I still want the rest days but it is not as urgent as before.
The team before leaving with our host Barb Hurley
It was real foggy when we set out
You can see the fog bank in the distance after we cleared it
High above the Mississippi River near Crescent, MN
This sculpture was at the entrance to a home overlooking the Mississippi River
Many of the barns have a quilt pattern painted on the hay loft door or gable end
Today was Sunday so our theme was churches
Day + 29 June 25, 2016
Elkader, IA to Brownsville, MN 83 miles.
This post is getting me a little frustrated. Twice I have accidently deleted the entire post after completing part of it. Here goes try three.
Last night we stayed in the First Congregational Church in Elkader, IA. I slept in the basement where there was a meeting room and kitchen. Last night when taking my pills I went to the kitchen to get a bottle of water and left my shaving kit on the counter. This morning I was in a tizzy trying to find it in the dark at 5 AM. I finally located it while trying not to wake anyone. All other departure preparations were completed without mishap and we were all finally ready to depart at 6:15 AM, only 15 minutes late.
Our riding team consisted of Sharon, Jennifer, Catherine, Katie, Alison and myself. We set off together but Sharon and Jennifer shot off like they were fired out of a canon and that was the last we would see of them until rest stop 3 in Lansing, IA.
The remaining 4 of us got to the first rest stop in Farmersburg before the van. It was at the 14 mile point so we really didn't need a stop yet plus there was nothing we would top for anyway.
Here's where the day gets interesting. When we stopped at a convenience store in Waukon Junction we learned that we were really in Waukon, not Waukon Junction. We have no idea where we made a wrong turn but we are several miles west of where we need to be. After consulting with the locals we decided the best remedy was to take Route 9 to Lansing for the third rest stop. This was 18 miles so we had sandwiches first. The ride to Lansing was very nice. There were a few hills including a couple of fairly long but manageable ascents. About 5 miles from Lansing we had a large descent followed by a couple miles of level road into town. When we arrived in Lansing we saw Sharon and Jennifer at a convenience store and found out our detour had actually been a three mile shortcut.
After the break we headed out of Lasing for our final destination in Brownsville, MN. This was about 22 miles and we all felt good at this point. We left about 1:30 PM and the afternoon sun combined with high humidity soon drained our energy. The ride to Brownsville was along the Mississippi River to our right as we were traveling north. To our left was rapidly rising hills or even cliffs where the road was dug into the hillside. The road was fairly level. It is always a good indicator that the road will be level when you travel along a river or railroad track. Today we had both.
Our last stop in Iowa was a meat market in New Albin recommended to us by a fellow in Waulkon. We stopped and it was like a market in the last century. We sampled all the different kinds of jerky they made before settling on the standard beef jerky.
Next stop was the state line for pictures. After posing with the Minnesota State line sign it was off to Brownsville. By now it was over 90 degrees making the 14 miles remaining difficult. I drank and drank all day but it still wasn't enough.
We are staying on the farm of a family that volunteered to host us. We were originally going to camp but are staying inside now because of the threat of thunderstorms. I am always amazed at the generosity of our hosts wherever we go and today is no exception They sheltered us, fed us, and even did our laundry.
Tomorrow is another 85 mile day so it is going to be early to bed for me.
This post is getting me a little frustrated. Twice I have accidently deleted the entire post after completing part of it. Here goes try three.
Last night we stayed in the First Congregational Church in Elkader, IA. I slept in the basement where there was a meeting room and kitchen. Last night when taking my pills I went to the kitchen to get a bottle of water and left my shaving kit on the counter. This morning I was in a tizzy trying to find it in the dark at 5 AM. I finally located it while trying not to wake anyone. All other departure preparations were completed without mishap and we were all finally ready to depart at 6:15 AM, only 15 minutes late.
Our riding team consisted of Sharon, Jennifer, Catherine, Katie, Alison and myself. We set off together but Sharon and Jennifer shot off like they were fired out of a canon and that was the last we would see of them until rest stop 3 in Lansing, IA.
The remaining 4 of us got to the first rest stop in Farmersburg before the van. It was at the 14 mile point so we really didn't need a stop yet plus there was nothing we would top for anyway.
Here's where the day gets interesting. When we stopped at a convenience store in Waukon Junction we learned that we were really in Waukon, not Waukon Junction. We have no idea where we made a wrong turn but we are several miles west of where we need to be. After consulting with the locals we decided the best remedy was to take Route 9 to Lansing for the third rest stop. This was 18 miles so we had sandwiches first. The ride to Lansing was very nice. There were a few hills including a couple of fairly long but manageable ascents. About 5 miles from Lansing we had a large descent followed by a couple miles of level road into town. When we arrived in Lansing we saw Sharon and Jennifer at a convenience store and found out our detour had actually been a three mile shortcut.
After the break we headed out of Lasing for our final destination in Brownsville, MN. This was about 22 miles and we all felt good at this point. We left about 1:30 PM and the afternoon sun combined with high humidity soon drained our energy. The ride to Brownsville was along the Mississippi River to our right as we were traveling north. To our left was rapidly rising hills or even cliffs where the road was dug into the hillside. The road was fairly level. It is always a good indicator that the road will be level when you travel along a river or railroad track. Today we had both.
Our last stop in Iowa was a meat market in New Albin recommended to us by a fellow in Waulkon. We stopped and it was like a market in the last century. We sampled all the different kinds of jerky they made before settling on the standard beef jerky.
Next stop was the state line for pictures. After posing with the Minnesota State line sign it was off to Brownsville. By now it was over 90 degrees making the 14 miles remaining difficult. I drank and drank all day but it still wasn't enough.
We are staying on the farm of a family that volunteered to host us. We were originally going to camp but are staying inside now because of the threat of thunderstorms. I am always amazed at the generosity of our hosts wherever we go and today is no exception They sheltered us, fed us, and even did our laundry.
Tomorrow is another 85 mile day so it is going to be early to bed for me.
A farm near Farmersburg, IA
A little creek near Farmersburg, IA
Mississippi River near Lansing, IA
New Albin Meat Market
Crossing the Minnesota border
Day + 28 June 24, 2016
Oxford Junction, IA to Elkator, IA 93 miles.
We left Oxford Junction at 6 AM because it was another long day although at the start of the day we thought it was 81 miles, not 93. I did not realize the discrepancy until Rest Stop 3 and I was not a happy camper. I am pretty worn down from 10 days since the last rest day. The legs are pretty weary.
Breakfast was a peanut butter and honey tortilla with raisins.
Sharon's brother, Michael, rode with us today which was nice.
At the first rest stop in Cascade, IA we decided to stop and have a second breakfast. The original diner planned for the rest stop was closed so we found an alternate at the other end of town. Breakfast was very good.
Almost as soon as we left the rest stop the road turned to gravel which is not a good thing for road bikes. Jennifer and Alison decided to walk the gravel as the rest pressed on. The van picked them up and was going to pick up the rest of us but we were near the end by the time the van got back to us. The twelve miles of gravel was an obstacle the slowed us down but we got through safely.
Catherine's rear tire was destroyed by the gravel and had to be replaced before proceeding That delayed us another half hour.
Rest Stop 2 was in Dyersville at a little park that provided welcome shade. I had an apple and pineapple that I purchased at Walmart yesterday. We were at the rest stop about 30 minutes.
Also near Dyersville we stopped at the filming site for the movie Field of Dreams. They have maintained the site the same as the movie. I was able to get several pictures.
I was starting to get tired. Iowa has provided us with plenty of hills. Fortunately there was little wind today. I knew the next rest stop was only about 20 miles and the days destination was only a few miles further.
The last rest stop was at Colesburg, IA. I went to a little gas station to get a Gatorade and learned while chatting to the mechanic that Elkader was much more than 10 miles. It turns out Elkader was 22 miles further. We had two big descents into towns along the path which were delightful. The only problem with big descents is that they are followed by big ascents out of the tows. Jennifer was quite a ways ahead of Sharon, Michael and myself. I was beginning to fall behind Sharon and Michael on the ascents but was able to make up ground on the flats. Jennifer stopped a couple of times to let us catch up.
For several days we have had a theme of the day for our selfies. Today the theme was barns and silos but we only stopped to take one picture. Todays theme will be a redo.
Jennifer seems to take the best pictures so I am sure I will be raiding many of hers.
We are staying at the First Congregational Church in Elkader. There are no showers here but we were able to get showers at the pool about a quarter mile away. Supposedly we could do laundry at the RV Campground next to the pool but that turned out to be untrue. The RV Campground directed us to the laundromat 3-4 blocks the other direction from the church but it turned out to be almost a mile. We walked to get our laundry done but got a ride back.
We had a real treat in the Neil McCallum, a segment rider from 2015 met us at the church and shared his experiences and advice. One of the neat things he did was construct a memory book using My Publisher. It was a real beauty. I would really like to do something like that.
While doing laundry we went to the restaurant next door. I had a mediocre salad and coconut crème pie.
Water in Iowa has the same unpleasant taste as water in Illinois and Indiana. It really has been awhile since we have had good tasting water.
We left Oxford Junction at 6 AM because it was another long day although at the start of the day we thought it was 81 miles, not 93. I did not realize the discrepancy until Rest Stop 3 and I was not a happy camper. I am pretty worn down from 10 days since the last rest day. The legs are pretty weary.
Breakfast was a peanut butter and honey tortilla with raisins.
Sharon's brother, Michael, rode with us today which was nice.
At the first rest stop in Cascade, IA we decided to stop and have a second breakfast. The original diner planned for the rest stop was closed so we found an alternate at the other end of town. Breakfast was very good.
Almost as soon as we left the rest stop the road turned to gravel which is not a good thing for road bikes. Jennifer and Alison decided to walk the gravel as the rest pressed on. The van picked them up and was going to pick up the rest of us but we were near the end by the time the van got back to us. The twelve miles of gravel was an obstacle the slowed us down but we got through safely.
Catherine's rear tire was destroyed by the gravel and had to be replaced before proceeding That delayed us another half hour.
Rest Stop 2 was in Dyersville at a little park that provided welcome shade. I had an apple and pineapple that I purchased at Walmart yesterday. We were at the rest stop about 30 minutes.
Also near Dyersville we stopped at the filming site for the movie Field of Dreams. They have maintained the site the same as the movie. I was able to get several pictures.
I was starting to get tired. Iowa has provided us with plenty of hills. Fortunately there was little wind today. I knew the next rest stop was only about 20 miles and the days destination was only a few miles further.
The last rest stop was at Colesburg, IA. I went to a little gas station to get a Gatorade and learned while chatting to the mechanic that Elkader was much more than 10 miles. It turns out Elkader was 22 miles further. We had two big descents into towns along the path which were delightful. The only problem with big descents is that they are followed by big ascents out of the tows. Jennifer was quite a ways ahead of Sharon, Michael and myself. I was beginning to fall behind Sharon and Michael on the ascents but was able to make up ground on the flats. Jennifer stopped a couple of times to let us catch up.
For several days we have had a theme of the day for our selfies. Today the theme was barns and silos but we only stopped to take one picture. Todays theme will be a redo.
Jennifer seems to take the best pictures so I am sure I will be raiding many of hers.
We are staying at the First Congregational Church in Elkader. There are no showers here but we were able to get showers at the pool about a quarter mile away. Supposedly we could do laundry at the RV Campground next to the pool but that turned out to be untrue. The RV Campground directed us to the laundromat 3-4 blocks the other direction from the church but it turned out to be almost a mile. We walked to get our laundry done but got a ride back.
We had a real treat in the Neil McCallum, a segment rider from 2015 met us at the church and shared his experiences and advice. One of the neat things he did was construct a memory book using My Publisher. It was a real beauty. I would really like to do something like that.
While doing laundry we went to the restaurant next door. I had a mediocre salad and coconut crème pie.
Water in Iowa has the same unpleasant taste as water in Illinois and Indiana. It really has been awhile since we have had good tasting water.
Day + 27 June 23, 2016
Orion, IL to Oxford Junction, IA. 91 miles.
This was going to be another 6 AM start because of the long miles. We had a good start to the day. The winds were at the head but under 10 mph so I had no complaints We had a few more hills but again no complaints since they were manageable. Our theme of the day was antique farm equipment and we stopped a couple of times for photos.
The Mississippi River was a big milestone as it also was our crossing into Iowa Since we had missed Illinois State sign when crossing into Illinois we took phots on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River and also the Iowa side. After our photos we headed to Walmart and our rest stop. I had lunch in the Walmart parking lot.
This was going to be another 6 AM start because of the long miles. We had a good start to the day. The winds were at the head but under 10 mph so I had no complaints We had a few more hills but again no complaints since they were manageable. Our theme of the day was antique farm equipment and we stopped a couple of times for photos.
The Mississippi River was a big milestone as it also was our crossing into Iowa Since we had missed Illinois State sign when crossing into Illinois we took phots on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River and also the Iowa side. After our photos we headed to Walmart and our rest stop. I had lunch in the Walmart parking lot.
The first 5 miles after Walmart were very busy highway and I immediately noticed the increased number and size of hills on the Iowa side of the river. Also the wind velocity had increased. It was now bothersome but not punishing.
The rest of the trip to Oxford Junction is sort of a blur. All I remember is hills and wind, hills and wind, hills and wind. I was totally exhausted.
Our destination was changed to the Senior Citizen Community Center instead of a park. It was good to be inside in the air conditioning but we didn't have any showers. Supposedly the Fire Department was working on showers but I got impatient and washed off in the sink. As soon as I went in the bathroom the Fire Department had the showers ready. I decided to take a real shower.
The Osford Junction Volunteer Fire Department did a fantastic job. They rolled out one of their trucks and in the garage bay rigged a shower. So we were taking a shower with the fire engines. After our shower they had a cold beer for anyone that wanted it.
After the shower I had a hamburger and fries from the local bar which was very good. Also a chocolate malt from the local gas station. OK.
Day + 26 June 22, 2016
Henry, IL to Orion, IL. 71 miles.
I woke at 4 AM this morning to the sound of rain on the tent fly. We had planned to depart at 6 AM to try to avoid predicted strong thunderstorms. My cell phone was in the trailer being charged but if I had it with me I would be included in the text conversation about departure time. I poked my head out of the tent at 5:30 and saw activity. Pack up was completed in record time and I was ready at 6 AM The tent was packed wet but everything else was dry. Breakfast was fig bars.
Sharon and I were ready to go at 6 AM but the youngsters (Vicki, Catherine and Katie) were not. Finally Sharon had enough and we headed out on our own. The sky was dark gray leaving Henry. Rain was mostly light with pockets of heavier rain. What I didn't like was the occasional lighting. By the time we rolled into Bradford it was pretty nasty. Sharon and I rolled into a convenience store and asked if we could hangout until the van arrived. My second breakfast waiting for the van was 2 chocolate éclairs and a bottle of chocolate milk. While waiting for the van Catherine, Vicki, Katie and Julia arrived. As soon as the van got there everyone piled in to try to get warm.
The convenience store clerk came out to the van and told us we could go to the community center a block away and shelter. When we got there I recognized the woman in charge as one of the convenience store customers. It was very nice of her to offer us shelter.
When our route leaders arrived we had a conversation about what to do because of the lightning. Many of the riders thought we should be shuttled to our destination but the route leaders weren't even considering that. While we waited the weather cleared some so we decided to set off for the next town of Osceola.
On the trip to Osceola there was quite a bit of lightning. Although not extremely close it was still concerning. It was also raining more heavily again. Osceola is no more than a wide spot in the road so we had no hopes of finding shelter in a business. Across the street from where we stopped was a house with a large front porch. I volunteered to ask permission to use their porch but no one was home. Since there was no one to say we couldn't use the porch we did. We the support van arrived the weather had subsided a bit and we decided to go on to the second rest stop in Kewanee, IL. We were at a convenience store and I had a banana.
The weather had cleared quite a bit. Most of the group decided to have lunch at McDonalds but Sharon and I decided to push on while the weather was good. The southeast wind had picked up which aided our ride. We were riding mostly west with a few north legs. The north legs were especially pleasant. The last 31 miles was quick.
When we arrived at the church Alison had set out tent to dry which was much appreciated. The church had a shower for us. We are to sleep in the Recreation Hall and since I was near the first to arrive I got a plum spot. Dinner is going to be provided by the church and will be served at 5 PM.
I woke at 4 AM this morning to the sound of rain on the tent fly. We had planned to depart at 6 AM to try to avoid predicted strong thunderstorms. My cell phone was in the trailer being charged but if I had it with me I would be included in the text conversation about departure time. I poked my head out of the tent at 5:30 and saw activity. Pack up was completed in record time and I was ready at 6 AM The tent was packed wet but everything else was dry. Breakfast was fig bars.
Sharon and I were ready to go at 6 AM but the youngsters (Vicki, Catherine and Katie) were not. Finally Sharon had enough and we headed out on our own. The sky was dark gray leaving Henry. Rain was mostly light with pockets of heavier rain. What I didn't like was the occasional lighting. By the time we rolled into Bradford it was pretty nasty. Sharon and I rolled into a convenience store and asked if we could hangout until the van arrived. My second breakfast waiting for the van was 2 chocolate éclairs and a bottle of chocolate milk. While waiting for the van Catherine, Vicki, Katie and Julia arrived. As soon as the van got there everyone piled in to try to get warm.
The convenience store clerk came out to the van and told us we could go to the community center a block away and shelter. When we got there I recognized the woman in charge as one of the convenience store customers. It was very nice of her to offer us shelter.
When our route leaders arrived we had a conversation about what to do because of the lightning. Many of the riders thought we should be shuttled to our destination but the route leaders weren't even considering that. While we waited the weather cleared some so we decided to set off for the next town of Osceola.
On the trip to Osceola there was quite a bit of lightning. Although not extremely close it was still concerning. It was also raining more heavily again. Osceola is no more than a wide spot in the road so we had no hopes of finding shelter in a business. Across the street from where we stopped was a house with a large front porch. I volunteered to ask permission to use their porch but no one was home. Since there was no one to say we couldn't use the porch we did. We the support van arrived the weather had subsided a bit and we decided to go on to the second rest stop in Kewanee, IL. We were at a convenience store and I had a banana.
The weather had cleared quite a bit. Most of the group decided to have lunch at McDonalds but Sharon and I decided to push on while the weather was good. The southeast wind had picked up which aided our ride. We were riding mostly west with a few north legs. The north legs were especially pleasant. The last 31 miles was quick.
When we arrived at the church Alison had set out tent to dry which was much appreciated. The church had a shower for us. We are to sleep in the Recreation Hall and since I was near the first to arrive I got a plum spot. Dinner is going to be provided by the church and will be served at 5 PM.
Day + 25 June 21, 2016
Odell, IL to Henry, IL 55 miles.
This is a day late because the cell service was so poor in Henry. Lets see how much I can remember. In the beginning of the trip I could remember most of the details of the day but as we go on the days blend together.. I am so focused on reaching the next cycling goal that I forget other things.
We wanted to get an early start to try to beat the wind. Yesterday the wind was a beast and we were in no hurry for a repeat. After packing up the gear and tent I fixed my breakfast of peanut butter and honey tortillas right on the curb by the van. It was 50 yards to the picnic tables and I was too lazy to walk.
Sharon and I were ready to go at the 6 AM agreed on departure time but Catherine and Katie were not. Finally we were rolling at 6:20.
I was really surprised at how light the wind was. The forecast was for 14 mph winds from the southwest. The direction was right but they were only 5 mph which seemed like nothing compared to yesterday. We stopped to take pictures at a corn field. While we were there a guy with a bicycle on his car roof stopped to find out where we were going. He chatted for awhile and then gave us bananas and Honey Stingers.
Since we left so early and we had a relatively easy ride we were at the days only rest stop in Wenona, IL about the same time as the van. The rest stop was just at the side of the road. We had snacks from our cubbies. Some people used the Port a potty a little walk away and some of us used the Corn-o-potty. (the corn field).
When we left we had to cross over an interstate highway and we got lots of honks from the passing cars which gave us a lift. The wind was a little stronger now but still not bad. We made it to Henry at 11:40 AM, a record completion time for me at least.
I was really happy to have the half day to take care of a few things. After putting up my tent I started out with a shower at the community pool next door and then headed to Rio Vista restaurant for the taco platter. Next was laundry followed by a trip to the grocery store. We were camping in a park right by the river and a gentleman docked his boat and approached us and offered to buy us dinner at the Rio Visa restaurant. It was the same place I went for lunch. I again had the taco platter.
After dinner I sat by the river and watched the boats go by until ready for bed.
This is a day late because the cell service was so poor in Henry. Lets see how much I can remember. In the beginning of the trip I could remember most of the details of the day but as we go on the days blend together.. I am so focused on reaching the next cycling goal that I forget other things.
We wanted to get an early start to try to beat the wind. Yesterday the wind was a beast and we were in no hurry for a repeat. After packing up the gear and tent I fixed my breakfast of peanut butter and honey tortillas right on the curb by the van. It was 50 yards to the picnic tables and I was too lazy to walk.
Sharon and I were ready to go at the 6 AM agreed on departure time but Catherine and Katie were not. Finally we were rolling at 6:20.
I was really surprised at how light the wind was. The forecast was for 14 mph winds from the southwest. The direction was right but they were only 5 mph which seemed like nothing compared to yesterday. We stopped to take pictures at a corn field. While we were there a guy with a bicycle on his car roof stopped to find out where we were going. He chatted for awhile and then gave us bananas and Honey Stingers.
Since we left so early and we had a relatively easy ride we were at the days only rest stop in Wenona, IL about the same time as the van. The rest stop was just at the side of the road. We had snacks from our cubbies. Some people used the Port a potty a little walk away and some of us used the Corn-o-potty. (the corn field).
When we left we had to cross over an interstate highway and we got lots of honks from the passing cars which gave us a lift. The wind was a little stronger now but still not bad. We made it to Henry at 11:40 AM, a record completion time for me at least.
I was really happy to have the half day to take care of a few things. After putting up my tent I started out with a shower at the community pool next door and then headed to Rio Vista restaurant for the taco platter. Next was laundry followed by a trip to the grocery store. We were camping in a park right by the river and a gentleman docked his boat and approached us and offered to buy us dinner at the Rio Visa restaurant. It was the same place I went for lunch. I again had the taco platter.
After dinner I sat by the river and watched the boats go by until ready for bed.
Day + 24 June 20, 2016
Iroquois, IL to Odell, IL. 6 miles.
I had a different riding group today although we ended up spread out due to the wind. Katie and Alison joined the group. Kate completed her segment and Jennifer is not riding in Illinois. This was Alison's first day back after her fall at the Black River bridge in Ohio.
We decided on a 7 AM start since it was a shorter day. Big mistake. It was very hot and humid from the beginning. And windy. Especically windy.
The first rest stop was another gas station in Ashkum, IL. We had a different riding group today since Kate completed her segment and Jennifer is not riding the Illinois portion. Catherine and Katie rode with us today. Actually we ended up spread out due to the high headwinds. I had a Gatorade and chips at the rest stop. I had avoided chips but ate them today for the salt
As usual for the day I was the slow rider heading into the second rest stop in Kempton. We stopped at a pub as it was the only choice if you wanted food. I had the soup and salad bar which was very good. We had almost the entire team at lunch which is unusual.
Heading out again for our camp at Odell IL the wind was not only there but was stronger then ever. I tried to maintain speed but most of the time it was 9-10 mph. The final 20 miles was a very long 2 1./2 hours. I arrived at camp at 3:30 PM and immediately pitched the tent. The city pool was across the street so we had a pool party of sorts.
Jennifer brought dinner for the team which was much appreciated. Pasta, garlic bread, vegetables and dip followed by homemade cherry pie. Thank you Jennifer.
We had a 6 AM start tomorrow so it is off to bed. Hopefully I can sleep since it is very humid. The one time of the day I want a breeze and it is dead calm.
I had a different riding group today although we ended up spread out due to the wind. Katie and Alison joined the group. Kate completed her segment and Jennifer is not riding in Illinois. This was Alison's first day back after her fall at the Black River bridge in Ohio.
We decided on a 7 AM start since it was a shorter day. Big mistake. It was very hot and humid from the beginning. And windy. Especically windy.
The first rest stop was another gas station in Ashkum, IL. We had a different riding group today since Kate completed her segment and Jennifer is not riding the Illinois portion. Catherine and Katie rode with us today. Actually we ended up spread out due to the high headwinds. I had a Gatorade and chips at the rest stop. I had avoided chips but ate them today for the salt
As usual for the day I was the slow rider heading into the second rest stop in Kempton. We stopped at a pub as it was the only choice if you wanted food. I had the soup and salad bar which was very good. We had almost the entire team at lunch which is unusual.
Heading out again for our camp at Odell IL the wind was not only there but was stronger then ever. I tried to maintain speed but most of the time it was 9-10 mph. The final 20 miles was a very long 2 1./2 hours. I arrived at camp at 3:30 PM and immediately pitched the tent. The city pool was across the street so we had a pool party of sorts.
Jennifer brought dinner for the team which was much appreciated. Pasta, garlic bread, vegetables and dip followed by homemade cherry pie. Thank you Jennifer.
We had a 6 AM start tomorrow so it is off to bed. Hopefully I can sleep since it is very humid. The one time of the day I want a breeze and it is dead calm.
Lots of wind so it makes sense to have wind farms. There were hundreds of windmills
Last nights sunset in Iroquois, IL
Todays riding group
Day + 23 June 19, 2016
Denver, IN to Iroguois, IL. 95 miles
First the milestone. We have completed 1/3 of the days on our cross country trip but not 1/3 of the miles.
I woke at 5 AM and thought I had more time to sleep so lay back down but immediately realized that we were going to leave at 6 AM to beat the heat. Severely disappointed I got up packed and had a quick breakfast of banana, fig bag and brownie. It was the last brownie left from the night before and I was happy to snag it before anyone else.
It was not fully light out when we set off so taillights were blinking on every bike. We had 5 riders; the usual plus Kate and Julia. Julia dropped out soon after starting so we rode with only 4 most of the ride. Soon after starting we got on the Nickel Plated bike path. It was smooth and straight making a delightful ride. We stopped at sunrise to take pictures before leaving the trail.
Most of the riding today was on county roads and we only had 1 car pass us in the first 42 miles. We were beyond the first rest stop by the time it was set up so we continued on to the second rest stop.
We also got to the second rest stop in Buffalo, IN before the van. The ride to this point was fairly fast and comfortable. The only establishments in town were a church and gas station. We stopped at the gas station and I got chocolate milk, sandwich, Snickers and Gatorade. They had a nice picnic are outside to eat in the shade.
By the time we left Buffalo the temperature had risen to 84. The roads also had a course surface which slowed us down. Fortunately we had a temporary bicycle mechanic for the weekend to replace our mechanic that quit and she provided us with water and cold towels to cool off.
The third rest stop was also a gas station and I had a banana and another Gatorade. It was now 91 degrees and a brisk headwind had picked up. The last 14 miles were miserable. Fortunately we had left early. Others had it much rougher.
Our accommodations for the night are a park. There was a problem with water that was worked out but there are no showers. One of our bicyclists knocked on some doors nearby and got someone to let us use their pool and another house let us use their shower. After showers we went to the only business in town ( a pub) and had dinner.
Another early start tomorrow so it is off to bed.
First the milestone. We have completed 1/3 of the days on our cross country trip but not 1/3 of the miles.
I woke at 5 AM and thought I had more time to sleep so lay back down but immediately realized that we were going to leave at 6 AM to beat the heat. Severely disappointed I got up packed and had a quick breakfast of banana, fig bag and brownie. It was the last brownie left from the night before and I was happy to snag it before anyone else.
It was not fully light out when we set off so taillights were blinking on every bike. We had 5 riders; the usual plus Kate and Julia. Julia dropped out soon after starting so we rode with only 4 most of the ride. Soon after starting we got on the Nickel Plated bike path. It was smooth and straight making a delightful ride. We stopped at sunrise to take pictures before leaving the trail.
Most of the riding today was on county roads and we only had 1 car pass us in the first 42 miles. We were beyond the first rest stop by the time it was set up so we continued on to the second rest stop.
We also got to the second rest stop in Buffalo, IN before the van. The ride to this point was fairly fast and comfortable. The only establishments in town were a church and gas station. We stopped at the gas station and I got chocolate milk, sandwich, Snickers and Gatorade. They had a nice picnic are outside to eat in the shade.
By the time we left Buffalo the temperature had risen to 84. The roads also had a course surface which slowed us down. Fortunately we had a temporary bicycle mechanic for the weekend to replace our mechanic that quit and she provided us with water and cold towels to cool off.
The third rest stop was also a gas station and I had a banana and another Gatorade. It was now 91 degrees and a brisk headwind had picked up. The last 14 miles were miserable. Fortunately we had left early. Others had it much rougher.
Our accommodations for the night are a park. There was a problem with water that was worked out but there are no showers. One of our bicyclists knocked on some doors nearby and got someone to let us use their pool and another house let us use their shower. After showers we went to the only business in town ( a pub) and had dinner.
Another early start tomorrow so it is off to bed.
Day 22 June 18, 2016
Monroeville, IN to Denver, IN 81 miles.
I went to bed late last night and kept waking up early, like 2 AM early. I finally set my alarm for 6 AM. It was warm last night so I started the night out with only the sleeping bag liner. I finally had to get the sleeping bag out early in the morning. It was up at six, packed up the tent and had everything ready to depart by 7 AM.
We started with a bright and beautiful day with no wind. Catherine and Kate joined our group so it was bigger than normal. After only a couple of miles we stopped at some round hay bales for some nonsense. Each of us had to mount the hay bale with our bicycle for a photo. Someone said that it didn't make any difference what age you were you would act 25 on this trip. I think 18 would be closer to the truth.
The trip to Rest Stop 1 and 2 were quick and uneventful at 26 and 48 miles. Near rest stop 3 at Largo, IN we crossed the Salamonie Dam and all of a sudden the terrain changed Time for this tired body to get some sleep.
I went to bed late last night and kept waking up early, like 2 AM early. I finally set my alarm for 6 AM. It was warm last night so I started the night out with only the sleeping bag liner. I finally had to get the sleeping bag out early in the morning. It was up at six, packed up the tent and had everything ready to depart by 7 AM.
We started with a bright and beautiful day with no wind. Catherine and Kate joined our group so it was bigger than normal. After only a couple of miles we stopped at some round hay bales for some nonsense. Each of us had to mount the hay bale with our bicycle for a photo. Someone said that it didn't make any difference what age you were you would act 25 on this trip. I think 18 would be closer to the truth.
The trip to Rest Stop 1 and 2 were quick and uneventful at 26 and 48 miles. Near rest stop 3 at Largo, IN we crossed the Salamonie Dam and all of a sudden the terrain changed Time for this tired body to get some sleep.
Day 22 June 18, 2016
Monroeville, IN to Denver, IN 81 miles.
I went to bed late last night and kept waking up early, like 2 AM early. I finally set my alarm for 6 AM. It was warm last night so I started the night out with only the sleeping bag liner. I finally had to get the sleeping bag out early in the morning. It was up at six, packed up the tent and had everything ready to depart by 7 AM.
We started with a bright and beautiful day with no wind. Catherine and Kate joined our group so it was bigger than normal. After only a couple of miles we stopped at some round hay bales for some nonsense. Each of us had to mount the hay bale with our bicycle for a photo. Someone said that it didn't make any difference what age you were you would act 25 on this trip. I think 18 would be closer to the truth.
The trip to Rest Stop 1 and 2 were quick and uneventful at 26 and 48 miles. Near rest stop 3 at Largo, IN we crossed the Salamonie Dam and all of a sudden the terrain changed Time for this tired body to get some sleep.
I went to bed late last night and kept waking up early, like 2 AM early. I finally set my alarm for 6 AM. It was warm last night so I started the night out with only the sleeping bag liner. I finally had to get the sleeping bag out early in the morning. It was up at six, packed up the tent and had everything ready to depart by 7 AM.
We started with a bright and beautiful day with no wind. Catherine and Kate joined our group so it was bigger than normal. After only a couple of miles we stopped at some round hay bales for some nonsense. Each of us had to mount the hay bale with our bicycle for a photo. Someone said that it didn't make any difference what age you were you would act 25 on this trip. I think 18 would be closer to the truth.
The trip to Rest Stop 1 and 2 were quick and uneventful at 26 and 48 miles. Near rest stop 3 at Largo, IN we crossed the Salamonie Dam and all of a sudden the terrain changed Time for this tired body to get some sleep.
Day + 21 June 17,2016
The day started with a great breakfast from the MS support group at the Thetford Community Center where we spent the night. I got my stuff in the trailer except for my tent before breakfast at 630 AM. I wanted to give the sun as much time as possible to dry the dew from my tent.
We knew from the run in the Thetford Center yesterday that our cold legs would be presented with some formidable hills from the very beginning. We descended a steep hill to cross a covered bridge before getting to that hill. Unfortunately the bridge was one way with a required stop so we could not use speed to at least mitigate the pain a little bit. It was a real bitch and her sisters were not far down the road. It was cool when we left Thetford Center and I had debated wearing my light cycling jacket before stowing it. That was a good decision because I was sweating within a couple of minutes. My regular duo of riders, Nikki and Ethan, left the Thetford Center with several other riders and we stayed together past the first rest stop.
The first rest stop was in Sharon, Maine in a town square. Sharon is a very small nice town. After snacks and filling the water bottles we found a coop with rest rooms before heading out. We crossed a trestle bridge exiting town and followed the White river for several miles.
Our first and hopefully our last casualty struck soon after leaving Sharon. Nikki was following another rider too close and failed to slow in time when the front rider was forced to reduce speed when the road became one lane. When their tires touched Nikki took a spill. She complained that her shoulder hurt and she felt a little dizzy. Also she had minor road rash on one knee. We treated the road rash and called the support van who took her to a nearby clinic. Several locals stopped to offer assistance and give us directions. Unfortunately for Nikki her bike trip is over because she suffered a broken collar bone.
After the support van took Nikki we proceeded to Royalton. It was a clear, sunny and mild ride with hills but no monsters. A perfect ride. Because the support van was occupied with Nikki they had us hold at Royalton. We had lunch at a local café which was quite good. I had split pea soup and a turkey sandwich.
It was during lunch that we had the next change of plans. Our route over the Middlebury Gap was blocked for cyclists by road construction so we were rerouted to the Brandon Gap. This was good news and bad news. The Brandon Gap is not as steep but it adds seven miles to our day. I was very happy with the extra seven miles.
The next rest stop was at the top of Brandon Gap. The ascent was definitely challenging but not near as hard as the Kancamagus Gap 2 days prior. A short rest stop is all we got. We didn't have our normal rest stop van because it was with the injured rider. The van with the trailer was their instead. We had a quick snack and water before heading to Middlebury.
From the top of Brandon Gap to Middlebury was about 25 miles. The descent was about 10 miles. It was shorter and the road was not as good as the Kancamagus Gap descent so I took it a bit slower. I am a bit of a chicken on descents so kept the speed below 30 most of the way and no more than 35. We regrouped at our turnoff at the bottom of the descent since some of us did not have the tweets with the reroute directions.
About 7 miles from Middlebury we found an ice cream store. I had a double scoop of home made maple walnut ice cream with maple syrup. Really, really good for the taste buds and the spirit.
Middlebury is a small town of about 5000 people. The last 8 miles passed many dairy farms and most were spreading manure on the fields. The nose was overloaded. Evidently the liquefy the manure and spray it on the fields.
We arrived at our home for the next two nights, an Episcopal church basement, around six. After staking our my spot on the floor and rolling out my pad and sleeping bag I had a hot shower before rolling out to dinner at a pizza joint. I had a calzone which was good but doesn't come close to Modern's in New Haven, CT.
A couple of our riders are leaving hear so we went to one of the watering holes to see them off. I very seldom drink alcohol but had a first for me, a hard cider which was actually good.
Right outside the church basement entrance there is a gazebo so I decided to call home from there. I soon as I called a homeless guy arrived. He sat down for a couple of minutes and waited for me to leave his chosen home for the evening. Soon he grew impatient and started unpacking his stuff and making a bunch of noise. I guess that was his way of telling me I had spent long enough in his territory. The next morning he asked a couple of women in our group how we scored the church basement for our accommodations.
Bowling Green, OH to Monroeville, IN. 94 miles.
This was a very good day. It was a high mileage day and I was a little apprehensive since the wind made the last couple of days difficult. However it turned out the wind was our friend today.
I went to bed early last night and got 9 1/2 hours sleep. I woke, packed my gear and had a blueberry muffin and a pastry supplied by our host Matt who owns a bakery in Bowling Green.
I rode today with my usual riding companions, Sharon and Jennifer. We started out at 7 AM and headed to the first rest stop in Napoleon at a brisk pace of 16 mph. I was concerned that I could not keep this pace up for the entire 94 miles. I started off with a light jacket but took it off after 10 miles. Our rest stop was at a gas station and I bought a chocolate mile to go along with my banana. We stayed about 15 minutes before greasing up with sunscreen and heading out.
The wind swung to the northeast and was even more favorable then before. It was only 19 miles to rest stop 2 in Defiance, OH and it was a very quick ride. We maintained and 18-19 mph pace. The rest stop was in the shade but there wasn't any restrooms. We probably stayed to long and the muscles had cooled. We decided to eat at the 3rd rest stop.
It was another quick ride to Paulding and the final rest stop of the day. The rest stop was on the Main Street near the only food service facility we could see so we decided to go there. I went to the restroom and by the time I came out most of the rest of the riders had arrived. It is not very often that we get to eat lunch together since we are usually spread out. I had chili and strawberry and rhubarb pie.
A final 23 quick 23 mile ride brought us to Monroeville, IN and our camping spot for the day. The first question asked about our accommodations is the availability of showers. The second question is about the availability of laundry. Today we hit the jackpot and have both. We are in a little park that has a nice covered pavilion with a kitchen, shower, and laundry.
Dinner was provided by friends of Jennifer. Pizza, knots, and drinks. Very good. Thanks
This was a very good day. It was a high mileage day and I was a little apprehensive since the wind made the last couple of days difficult. However it turned out the wind was our friend today.
I went to bed early last night and got 9 1/2 hours sleep. I woke, packed my gear and had a blueberry muffin and a pastry supplied by our host Matt who owns a bakery in Bowling Green.
I rode today with my usual riding companions, Sharon and Jennifer. We started out at 7 AM and headed to the first rest stop in Napoleon at a brisk pace of 16 mph. I was concerned that I could not keep this pace up for the entire 94 miles. I started off with a light jacket but took it off after 10 miles. Our rest stop was at a gas station and I bought a chocolate mile to go along with my banana. We stayed about 15 minutes before greasing up with sunscreen and heading out.
The wind swung to the northeast and was even more favorable then before. It was only 19 miles to rest stop 2 in Defiance, OH and it was a very quick ride. We maintained and 18-19 mph pace. The rest stop was in the shade but there wasn't any restrooms. We probably stayed to long and the muscles had cooled. We decided to eat at the 3rd rest stop.
It was another quick ride to Paulding and the final rest stop of the day. The rest stop was on the Main Street near the only food service facility we could see so we decided to go there. I went to the restroom and by the time I came out most of the rest of the riders had arrived. It is not very often that we get to eat lunch together since we are usually spread out. I had chili and strawberry and rhubarb pie.
A final 23 quick 23 mile ride brought us to Monroeville, IN and our camping spot for the day. The first question asked about our accommodations is the availability of showers. The second question is about the availability of laundry. Today we hit the jackpot and have both. We are in a little park that has a nice covered pavilion with a kitchen, shower, and laundry.
Dinner was provided by friends of Jennifer. Pizza, knots, and drinks. Very good. Thanks
At the Campbell Soup plant. I really am not in pain.
The crew at lunch
The bike parking lot at lunch
Selfie in the wheat field
Wind farm in Ohio near Monroeville, IN
Day + 20 June 16,2016
Huron, OH to Bowling Green, OH. 64 miles.
Many people did not sleep well last night. We were on the gym floor of the St Ignacio Christian School. The problem was two large lights remained on all night. After spending many years on ships in the Navy I have no problem falling asleep anywhere and almost anytime. What did concern me were the thunderstorms that rolled through starting at 4 AM. Thankfully they were gone by the time we started riding at 8 AM.
Rolling out the roads were still wet but not too bad. By 10 AM they were dry. Our first rest stop was in Clyde, OH. About 20 miles. We had some wind but not too bad.
Rest Stop was Gibsonburg. Advertised mileage was 60 but it was closer to 52. Winds were shifting from the southwest to northwest and strengthened considerably. I was beat by the time I reached the rest stop. Sharon and Jennifer slowed so I was able to keep up with them. Our speed was 10-12 mph.
I did not want to leave the rest stop because I knew it would be very hard cycling. We had about 15 miles to go and it seemed like 50. I thought we were close when we got close to Bowling Green. However we had to go through town and then several miles more to our host's farm.
Matt and Michele were our hosts. They have housed, entertained and fed the Northern Tier cyclists every year since 2007. They provided a grand meal and every kind of drink imaginable for us. The next morning they also provided pastries from there bakery. They also had 2 scooters which provided a lot of entertainment. Thank you very much.
My tent was next to a corn field. I could see a wind farm on the other side of the field.
I laid down for a nap but had to get up because I was having cramps in my legs. I drank some coconut water and ate a banana. That seemed to fix the problem as long as I did not bend my legs the wrong way. By morning my legs were refreshed.
Many people did not sleep well last night. We were on the gym floor of the St Ignacio Christian School. The problem was two large lights remained on all night. After spending many years on ships in the Navy I have no problem falling asleep anywhere and almost anytime. What did concern me were the thunderstorms that rolled through starting at 4 AM. Thankfully they were gone by the time we started riding at 8 AM.
Rolling out the roads were still wet but not too bad. By 10 AM they were dry. Our first rest stop was in Clyde, OH. About 20 miles. We had some wind but not too bad.
Rest Stop was Gibsonburg. Advertised mileage was 60 but it was closer to 52. Winds were shifting from the southwest to northwest and strengthened considerably. I was beat by the time I reached the rest stop. Sharon and Jennifer slowed so I was able to keep up with them. Our speed was 10-12 mph.
I did not want to leave the rest stop because I knew it would be very hard cycling. We had about 15 miles to go and it seemed like 50. I thought we were close when we got close to Bowling Green. However we had to go through town and then several miles more to our host's farm.
Matt and Michele were our hosts. They have housed, entertained and fed the Northern Tier cyclists every year since 2007. They provided a grand meal and every kind of drink imaginable for us. The next morning they also provided pastries from there bakery. They also had 2 scooters which provided a lot of entertainment. Thank you very much.
My tent was next to a corn field. I could see a wind farm on the other side of the field.
I laid down for a nap but had to get up because I was having cramps in my legs. I drank some coconut water and ate a banana. That seemed to fix the problem as long as I did not bend my legs the wrong way. By morning my legs were refreshed.
Day + 19 June 15, 2016
Cleveland to Huron. 60 miles.
Time to leave Cleveland. It was a nice rest and the service projects were uplifting.
I took a shower and got packed out early. I ate a banana in the hostel kitchen and then had a bagel in the hostel café.
Some of the cyclists were going to the Chick-fil-A owned by Ken, the Northern Tier alumni for a free breakfast but we decided to skip that and go right to the first and only rest stop in Avon Lake. We got there just as the support van arrived since it went for the free breakfast also. We were ready to leave before most cyclists arrived at the rest stop.
We did have a head wind but it wasn't too strong. It slowed our progress some. By the time we reached Huron I was pretty tired. We stayed at Saint Peter's church school in the gym.
Unfortunately there was no shower and no laundry. I took a sponge bath in the sink. Shortly after I finished someone found that the marina had showers. I was tired and decided my sink bath was good enough. After sitting up my sleeping bag on the gym floor a group of us went to the local watering hole for a brew. We returned to the gym for dinner provided by Chandler's parents. We have been getting an incredible amount of free food. Thank you.
Time to leave Cleveland. It was a nice rest and the service projects were uplifting.
I took a shower and got packed out early. I ate a banana in the hostel kitchen and then had a bagel in the hostel café.
Some of the cyclists were going to the Chick-fil-A owned by Ken, the Northern Tier alumni for a free breakfast but we decided to skip that and go right to the first and only rest stop in Avon Lake. We got there just as the support van arrived since it went for the free breakfast also. We were ready to leave before most cyclists arrived at the rest stop.
We did have a head wind but it wasn't too strong. It slowed our progress some. By the time we reached Huron I was pretty tired. We stayed at Saint Peter's church school in the gym.
Unfortunately there was no shower and no laundry. I took a sponge bath in the sink. Shortly after I finished someone found that the marina had showers. I was tired and decided my sink bath was good enough. After sitting up my sleeping bag on the gym floor a group of us went to the local watering hole for a brew. We returned to the gym for dinner provided by Chandler's parents. We have been getting an incredible amount of free food. Thank you.
Day + 18 June 14, 2016. Cleveland, OH Rest Day
Rest days rock. Not only do we get to rest our bodies but we did some incredible stuff. I slept in until 7 AM, took a shower and then went down the street from the Cleveland Hostel to a little coffee shop and had a bagel. I finished breakfast back at the hostel with an apple.
At 9 AM we all gathered at the Bike the US for MS vans for a short ride to a MS patients home that needed help. We first had to stop at Home Depot for supplies and a carpet cleaner. While team leaders were buying the supplies we had the usual team folly. Camp songs, jokes through the megaphone in the van and paint Stefan the group leaders face on the watermelon among other things.
Before we could start cleaning at our destination, Buffy made a instructional video on how to properly use a swab.
We had the full team to help Gisella due some cleaning in her apartment. It was a little crowded but we spread out in several rooms to clean, dust and polish. All rooms were spic and span in no time with the only task left being carpet cleaning. Most of us cleared out and a small team finished up.
Gisella was very appreciative and we completed the visit with group photos.
Next stop was to see Stefan's future father-in-law who is also a MS patient. We had a good visit outside his retirement home and also entertained the residents with the wave, square dancing and other frivolities.
Onward to Click-fil-A for a free meal. We could order anything we wanted and so I ordered my usual; Market salad with a diet Coke. After lunch we had pictures at the marquee with the cow.
\We also said goodbye to Peter, one of our route leaders for the first 18 days. Peter will be missed. He knew the history of every single place we stopped. I wonder who is going tell us which general fought where and what the best restaurant at our future rest stops.
From there we went to pick up dinner. One of our riders, Sharon Bouchard knew a restaurateur in Cleveland. Sharon had not seen this woman in 30 years but she donated so much food we will have a hard time eating it. We got 4 large pizzas, 1 gigantic salad and 12 sandwiches. A big thank you to Rosemarie Carrol at Captain Tonys and Tomaydo Tomahhdo Express. If you are ever in Cleveland please consider going to one of her restaurants.
At 9 AM we all gathered at the Bike the US for MS vans for a short ride to a MS patients home that needed help. We first had to stop at Home Depot for supplies and a carpet cleaner. While team leaders were buying the supplies we had the usual team folly. Camp songs, jokes through the megaphone in the van and paint Stefan the group leaders face on the watermelon among other things.
Before we could start cleaning at our destination, Buffy made a instructional video on how to properly use a swab.
We had the full team to help Gisella due some cleaning in her apartment. It was a little crowded but we spread out in several rooms to clean, dust and polish. All rooms were spic and span in no time with the only task left being carpet cleaning. Most of us cleared out and a small team finished up.
Gisella was very appreciative and we completed the visit with group photos.
Next stop was to see Stefan's future father-in-law who is also a MS patient. We had a good visit outside his retirement home and also entertained the residents with the wave, square dancing and other frivolities.
Onward to Click-fil-A for a free meal. We could order anything we wanted and so I ordered my usual; Market salad with a diet Coke. After lunch we had pictures at the marquee with the cow.
\We also said goodbye to Peter, one of our route leaders for the first 18 days. Peter will be missed. He knew the history of every single place we stopped. I wonder who is going tell us which general fought where and what the best restaurant at our future rest stops.
From there we went to pick up dinner. One of our riders, Sharon Bouchard knew a restaurateur in Cleveland. Sharon had not seen this woman in 30 years but she donated so much food we will have a hard time eating it. We got 4 large pizzas, 1 gigantic salad and 12 sandwiches. A big thank you to Rosemarie Carrol at Captain Tonys and Tomaydo Tomahhdo Express. If you are ever in Cleveland please consider going to one of her restaurants.
Day + 17. June 13, 2016
Geneva on the Lake, OH to Cleveland, OH. 62 miles.
Normally we get a tweet the night before letting us know where each rest stop will be and also the departure time but we did not get it today. Rest stops were still being discussed at the van in the morning. I figured departure time would be later so I slept in until 6:30 AM. When I poked my nose out of the tent I got a chorus of comments about my laziness. It turned out I did not need to make donuts because the mayor of donut town, our route leader Stefan, had donuts waiting for us.
Our first rest stop was 30 miles away near Painesville, OH. I love the name of that town and commented that we have been in Painesville for the last 17 days. There was a little diner across the street and I had a second breakfast. Then it was off to rest stop #2.
Rest stop # 2 never happened for my group because we were ahead of the van by the time it stopped for the second stop. Our group has some incredibly fast riders and a couple of very slow riders so the faster people are sometimes past the rest stop by the time the last rider has departed the previous stop.
Now I am not a fast rider. As a matter of fact I am the slowest male (and oldest male). So that I will have riding companions who will not leave me in their dust I ride with some of the ladies.
We did stop in Euclid for a rest stop which was only 15 miles past the first rest stop. Because I had breakfast a short time earlier I only had a banana and a Snapple.
The ride today had an incredible number of turns which made me apprehensive that we would get lost but it turned out to be incredibly easy. We were following the Coastal Ohio Bike Route which in many cases had designated bike lanes but some roads did not. Either way the bike route was well marked in most cases and we just had to follow the signs. We then went on the Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway. It was not as well marked but for the most part was straight. We got on one section that said it was closed to through traffic due to construction. We ignored the closed sign and it turned out great because there were no cars. At the end of the bike way we traveled a couple miles in an industrial area before crossing the Cuyahoga River.
Once across the river we were in downtown Cleveland. Immediately we came to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Browns stadium. It was only about a mile further to the Cleveland Hostel and our home for the next 2 nights.
This was the easiest riding day we have had. It was a combination of light winds, few hills and our continuously improving conditioning.
The Cleveland Hostel was fantastic. Having only opened in 2012 it was clean and modern with nice bathrooms, laundry, kitchen, lounge and a little vending area. After a shower and laundry a Stefan, Eddie, Ethan and myself went to the Great Lakes Brewing Company for dinner. We then ran into another bunch of our crew and had ice cream. Bed time was an incredibly late 10 PM.
Normally we get a tweet the night before letting us know where each rest stop will be and also the departure time but we did not get it today. Rest stops were still being discussed at the van in the morning. I figured departure time would be later so I slept in until 6:30 AM. When I poked my nose out of the tent I got a chorus of comments about my laziness. It turned out I did not need to make donuts because the mayor of donut town, our route leader Stefan, had donuts waiting for us.
Our first rest stop was 30 miles away near Painesville, OH. I love the name of that town and commented that we have been in Painesville for the last 17 days. There was a little diner across the street and I had a second breakfast. Then it was off to rest stop #2.
Rest stop # 2 never happened for my group because we were ahead of the van by the time it stopped for the second stop. Our group has some incredibly fast riders and a couple of very slow riders so the faster people are sometimes past the rest stop by the time the last rider has departed the previous stop.
Now I am not a fast rider. As a matter of fact I am the slowest male (and oldest male). So that I will have riding companions who will not leave me in their dust I ride with some of the ladies.
We did stop in Euclid for a rest stop which was only 15 miles past the first rest stop. Because I had breakfast a short time earlier I only had a banana and a Snapple.
The ride today had an incredible number of turns which made me apprehensive that we would get lost but it turned out to be incredibly easy. We were following the Coastal Ohio Bike Route which in many cases had designated bike lanes but some roads did not. Either way the bike route was well marked in most cases and we just had to follow the signs. We then went on the Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway. It was not as well marked but for the most part was straight. We got on one section that said it was closed to through traffic due to construction. We ignored the closed sign and it turned out great because there were no cars. At the end of the bike way we traveled a couple miles in an industrial area before crossing the Cuyahoga River.
Once across the river we were in downtown Cleveland. Immediately we came to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Browns stadium. It was only about a mile further to the Cleveland Hostel and our home for the next 2 nights.
This was the easiest riding day we have had. It was a combination of light winds, few hills and our continuously improving conditioning.
The Cleveland Hostel was fantastic. Having only opened in 2012 it was clean and modern with nice bathrooms, laundry, kitchen, lounge and a little vending area. After a shower and laundry a Stefan, Eddie, Ethan and myself went to the Great Lakes Brewing Company for dinner. We then ran into another bunch of our crew and had ice cream. Bed time was an incredibly late 10 PM.
Day + 16 June 12, 2016
Lake Erie State Park near Brocton, OH to Geneva, OH. 97 miles.
This was our longest ride to date but far from the most difficult. We left camp at 6 AM to try to beat the winds. It was a peasant ride all day. High temp near 70. We did have winds up to 18 mpg but they were rarely on our head which made a huge difference from yesterday. Today's 98 miles were much easier than yesterday's 66... miles.
The route was near Lake Erie all day which includes wine country in NY & PA. The grapes were in full bloom. We had cycled in three states before noon.
This was our longest ride to date but far from the most difficult. We left camp at 6 AM to try to beat the winds. It was a peasant ride all day. High temp near 70. We did have winds up to 18 mpg but they were rarely on our head which made a huge difference from yesterday. Today's 98 miles were much easier than yesterday's 66... miles.
The route was near Lake Erie all day which includes wine country in NY & PA. The grapes were in full bloom. We had cycled in three states before noon.
The 2nd rest stop was at a farm stand and I ate a quart of strawberries.
Our course intercepted a MS 150 ride in Conneaut, OH and we were invited to their after ride party. Free food and a very long rest stop.
Sharon, Jennifer and I stopped for ice cream just before camp. Yum.
Camp is at a Lake Erie State Park in Geneva on the Lake, OH and another meal provided to us. Thank you.
Day + 15 June 11, 2016
Buffalo to Lake Erie State Park. 66 miles.
The first 30 miles to Hamburg, NY was not bad. We had some wind but not exceptional strong. We made good time and were feeling good at the rest stop.
Almost immediately after the rest stop the wind picked up and was almost directly on our head for the rest of the day. It really got strong about 20 miles from our destination. The wind made riding up the hills especially bad and then you reached the crest where you were devastated by the impact.
At lunch the owner of the diner made a big fuss about our trip. I was talking to the gentleman in the next booth and found out he was a fellow retired NUC. Naval Nuclear Trained for non USN readers. He bought our table lunch which we much appreciated.
After lunch I had a flat which also ruined the tire. Fortunately I was able to put in a new tube and it held until I got to the campground. One of our sponsors is a tire manufacturer so I got a free tire. But I was unhappy that I had just put new tires on the bike before the trip started. Anyway I got to change the tire twice.
By the time I reached camp I was totally spent. Camp again was at a park right on the water. There were showers and laundry. No food nearby so I was fortunate to piggy back on a order from a pizza joint with delivery. I quickly did my laundry and ate my meatball sub when it arrived. I was in bed before the sun had set so I would be ready for tomorrow's 6AM start.
The first 30 miles to Hamburg, NY was not bad. We had some wind but not exceptional strong. We made good time and were feeling good at the rest stop.
Almost immediately after the rest stop the wind picked up and was almost directly on our head for the rest of the day. It really got strong about 20 miles from our destination. The wind made riding up the hills especially bad and then you reached the crest where you were devastated by the impact.
At lunch the owner of the diner made a big fuss about our trip. I was talking to the gentleman in the next booth and found out he was a fellow retired NUC. Naval Nuclear Trained for non USN readers. He bought our table lunch which we much appreciated.
After lunch I had a flat which also ruined the tire. Fortunately I was able to put in a new tube and it held until I got to the campground. One of our sponsors is a tire manufacturer so I got a free tire. But I was unhappy that I had just put new tires on the bike before the trip started. Anyway I got to change the tire twice.
Today was trailer clean out day. It had got to be a bit of a mess so everything came out and the trailer was cleaned before being reloaded. Of course we got the cleanliness lecture. It was just like our trip leader was the XO of a ship. Like the good ole days.
By the time I reached camp I was totally spent. Camp again was at a park right on the water. There were showers and laundry. No food nearby so I was fortunate to piggy back on a order from a pizza joint with delivery. I quickly did my laundry and ate my meatball sub when it arrived. I was in bed before the sun had set so I would be ready for tomorrow's 6AM start.
Day + 14 June 10, 2016
Lockport, NY to Buffalo, NY. 55 miles
Fun day today. Started out with a brisk 20 mile ride to rest stop #1 in Lewiston, NY where we broke into groups of riders going to Canada and riders who forgot their passports or didn't want to do the Canadian loop.
I was with the group of cyclists that went to Canada. We crossed the Queenston bridge and cycled about 8 miles to the falls. After photos in several places we had lunch right on the water. Several more photo opportunities later we headed for Buffalo via the Niagara Trail which follows the Niagra River. This was the perfect 20 mile ride. Beautiful river. Beautiful houses. Perfect weather. This time we had to walk our bikes across the Peace bridge into Buffalo. After clearing customs the hostel was a short 20 minute ride.
We are staying at the First English Lutheran Church in Buffalo. No showers at the church but the church provided car service to the local YMCA and back. They had 1 washer and dryer but I did not want to wait up for it to be available so I walked down to the pay laundry to do mine. We have a bed, shower and laundry tonight. Perfect. We all slept in the sanctuary which made a pretty grand bedroom. The stained glass windows were beautiful in the early morning sunlight.
The church also provided snacks when we arrived, an unbelievable spread for dinner and then breakfast the next morning. Thank you First English Lutheran Church.
This was definitely an A+++ day.
Fun day today. Started out with a brisk 20 mile ride to rest stop #1 in Lewiston, NY where we broke into groups of riders going to Canada and riders who forgot their passports or didn't want to do the Canadian loop.
I was with the group of cyclists that went to Canada. We crossed the Queenston bridge and cycled about 8 miles to the falls. After photos in several places we had lunch right on the water. Several more photo opportunities later we headed for Buffalo via the Niagara Trail which follows the Niagra River. This was the perfect 20 mile ride. Beautiful river. Beautiful houses. Perfect weather. This time we had to walk our bikes across the Peace bridge into Buffalo. After clearing customs the hostel was a short 20 minute ride.
We are staying at the First English Lutheran Church in Buffalo. No showers at the church but the church provided car service to the local YMCA and back. They had 1 washer and dryer but I did not want to wait up for it to be available so I walked down to the pay laundry to do mine. We have a bed, shower and laundry tonight. Perfect. We all slept in the sanctuary which made a pretty grand bedroom. The stained glass windows were beautiful in the early morning sunlight.
The church also provided snacks when we arrived, an unbelievable spread for dinner and then breakfast the next morning. Thank you First English Lutheran Church.
This was definitely an A+++ day.
Day + 13 June 9, 2016
Spencerport, NY to Lockport, NY 55 miles.
Day + 12. June 8, 2016
Sodus Point, NY to Spencerport, NY. 65 miles.
Day + 11. June 7, 2016
Selkirk, NY to Sodus Point, NY. 63 miles.
Day + 10. June 6, 2016
Old Forge, NY to Selkirk, NY. 84 miles
Day + 9. June 5, 2016
Newcomb, NY to Old Forge, NY. 64 miles
Day + 8. June 4, 2016
Middlebury, VT to Newcomb, NY. 65 miles.
We had a much easier ride this morning to Larrabee's Point on the Vermont bank of Lake Champlain. It was only 18 miles with many hills but no monsters. Good thing because it takes my old legs 12-14 miles to warm up. We waited about 20 minutes for the ferry to depart to the New York side of Lake Champlain. That makes 3 states crossed.
We landed in New York at Ticonderoga and had a rest stop at the Walmart a couple of miles further down the road. I bought some fruit and shop towels to keep my bike clean. Also $20 of sun screen.
This afternoons ride was as hard as this mornings was easy. After rest stop #1 at 20 miles we only saw 1 gas station and the Adirondack Buffalo Ranch Store in the next 45 miles. Lots of hills. 3 big climbs but no monster climbs. However the biggest was right after the rest stop which caused us to climb it with cold muscles.
We camped at St. Therese Church. The pastor was kind enough to open his house for showers which was very kind and much appreciated. No food service available close by. A pizzeria agreed to deliver the 25 miles to the church if we had an order of at least $75 dollars. Our order turned out to be $149 so we made it with ease. The hard part was getting 20 people to agree on what kind of pizza to order.
It was early to bed since rain is predicted for tomorrow and we don't want to pack out in the rain.
Also Happy Birthday to Adam Carpenter.
We had a much easier ride this morning to Larrabee's Point on the Vermont bank of Lake Champlain. It was only 18 miles with many hills but no monsters. Good thing because it takes my old legs 12-14 miles to warm up. We waited about 20 minutes for the ferry to depart to the New York side of Lake Champlain. That makes 3 states crossed.
We landed in New York at Ticonderoga and had a rest stop at the Walmart a couple of miles further down the road. I bought some fruit and shop towels to keep my bike clean. Also $20 of sun screen.
This afternoons ride was as hard as this mornings was easy. After rest stop #1 at 20 miles we only saw 1 gas station and the Adirondack Buffalo Ranch Store in the next 45 miles. Lots of hills. 3 big climbs but no monster climbs. However the biggest was right after the rest stop which caused us to climb it with cold muscles.
We camped at St. Therese Church. The pastor was kind enough to open his house for showers which was very kind and much appreciated. No food service available close by. A pizzeria agreed to deliver the 25 miles to the church if we had an order of at least $75 dollars. Our order turned out to be $149 so we made it with ease. The hard part was getting 20 people to agree on what kind of pizza to order.
It was early to bed since rain is predicted for tomorrow and we don't want to pack out in the rain.
Also Happy Birthday to Adam Carpenter.
D + 7 June 3, 2016Today is the first rest day in Middlebury, Vermont. I have a lot to do but have plenty of time to do it.
The first task is to sleep in which I did until 9 AM.
Then it was off to the bike shop to get my bike computer fixed. They were partially successful. The most important functions, distance and speed are working now. Distance is especially important because I use it to navigate. Our maps, which are put out by the Adventure Cycling Association, have distance to next turn information. While the cycle shop was working on my bike I walked across the street to pay my credit card bill which I had planned to do from my laptop.
I then mailed my broken computer home and a couple of other things I didn't think I would need, explored the town a little and had lunch from the Organic Coop salad bar. After lunch I did my laundry and then came back to the library to update the blog.
A group is going for Indian food tonight and invited me along. I haven't decided if that is something I want to try or not.
The first task is to sleep in which I did until 9 AM.
Then it was off to the bike shop to get my bike computer fixed. They were partially successful. The most important functions, distance and speed are working now. Distance is especially important because I use it to navigate. Our maps, which are put out by the Adventure Cycling Association, have distance to next turn information. While the cycle shop was working on my bike I walked across the street to pay my credit card bill which I had planned to do from my laptop.
I then mailed my broken computer home and a couple of other things I didn't think I would need, explored the town a little and had lunch from the Organic Coop salad bar. After lunch I did my laundry and then came back to the library to update the blog.
A group is going for Indian food tonight and invited me along. I haven't decided if that is something I want to try or not.
Day + 6 June 2, 2016
What a day. Thetford Center to Middlebury. Today was supposed to be 83 miles including the Middlebury Gap, a very challenging mountain pass. However flexibility was needed today to overcome obstacles.The day started with a great breakfast from the MS support group at the Thetford Community Center where we spent the night. I got my stuff in the trailer except for my tent before breakfast at 630 AM. I wanted to give the sun as much time as possible to dry the dew from my tent.
We knew from the run in the Thetford Center yesterday that our cold legs would be presented with some formidable hills from the very beginning. We descended a steep hill to cross a covered bridge before getting to that hill. Unfortunately the bridge was one way with a required stop so we could not use speed to at least mitigate the pain a little bit. It was a real bitch and her sisters were not far down the road. It was cool when we left Thetford Center and I had debated wearing my light cycling jacket before stowing it. That was a good decision because I was sweating within a couple of minutes. My regular duo of riders, Nikki and Ethan, left the Thetford Center with several other riders and we stayed together past the first rest stop.
The first rest stop was in Sharon, Maine in a town square. Sharon is a very small nice town. After snacks and filling the water bottles we found a coop with rest rooms before heading out. We crossed a trestle bridge exiting town and followed the White river for several miles.
Our first and hopefully our last casualty struck soon after leaving Sharon. Nikki was following another rider too close and failed to slow in time when the front rider was forced to reduce speed when the road became one lane. When their tires touched Nikki took a spill. She complained that her shoulder hurt and she felt a little dizzy. Also she had minor road rash on one knee. We treated the road rash and called the support van who took her to a nearby clinic. Several locals stopped to offer assistance and give us directions. Unfortunately for Nikki her bike trip is over because she suffered a broken collar bone.
After the support van took Nikki we proceeded to Royalton. It was a clear, sunny and mild ride with hills but no monsters. A perfect ride. Because the support van was occupied with Nikki they had us hold at Royalton. We had lunch at a local café which was quite good. I had split pea soup and a turkey sandwich.
It was during lunch that we had the next change of plans. Our route over the Middlebury Gap was blocked for cyclists by road construction so we were rerouted to the Brandon Gap. This was good news and bad news. The Brandon Gap is not as steep but it adds seven miles to our day. I was very happy with the extra seven miles.
The next rest stop was at the top of Brandon Gap. The ascent was definitely challenging but not near as hard as the Kancamagus Gap 2 days prior. A short rest stop is all we got. We didn't have our normal rest stop van because it was with the injured rider. The van with the trailer was their instead. We had a quick snack and water before heading to Middlebury.
From the top of Brandon Gap to Middlebury was about 25 miles. The descent was about 10 miles. It was shorter and the road was not as good as the Kancamagus Gap descent so I took it a bit slower. I am a bit of a chicken on descents so kept the speed below 30 most of the way and no more than 35. We regrouped at our turnoff at the bottom of the descent since some of us did not have the tweets with the reroute directions.
About 7 miles from Middlebury we found an ice cream store. I had a double scoop of home made maple walnut ice cream with maple syrup. Really, really good for the taste buds and the spirit.
Middlebury is a small town of about 5000 people. The last 8 miles passed many dairy farms and most were spreading manure on the fields. The nose was overloaded. Evidently the liquefy the manure and spray it on the fields.
We arrived at our home for the next two nights, an Episcopal church basement, around six. After staking our my spot on the floor and rolling out my pad and sleeping bag I had a hot shower before rolling out to dinner at a pizza joint. I had a calzone which was good but doesn't come close to Modern's in New Haven, CT.
A couple of our riders are leaving hear so we went to one of the watering holes to see them off. I very seldom drink alcohol but had a first for me, a hard cider which was actually good.
Right outside the church basement entrance there is a gazebo so I decided to call home from there. I soon as I called a homeless guy arrived. He sat down for a couple of minutes and waited for me to leave his chosen home for the evening. Soon he grew impatient and started unpacking his stuff and making a bunch of noise. I guess that was his way of telling me I had spent long enough in his territory. The next morning he asked a couple of women in our group how we scored the church basement for our accommodations.
Day + 5 June 1, 2016
Lincoln, NH to Thetford Center, VT. 50 miles.
This is a shorter day but the scheduling gods do not like us. There are several big hills right out of camp which are a real killer. Hills in the afternoon are a much easier when the muscles are warm and have been worked for half a day.
The only rest stop for the day is North Haverhill, NH at 30 miles. It is a challenging 30 miles but we know this is a relatively short day so we push through it. After the first 10 miles it is an easy 20 miles for the lunch stop in North Haverhill. There was a little county store with a deli counter where several of us had lunch. The other half of the group went across the bridge into Vermont for lunch. I had the large ham and cheese grinder. They do not have subs in New England, they are grinders. I should have had the small grinder since we had to hop right back on the bike. I have made that mistake several times and need to learn it soon. We walked across the street and sat in the shade to eat. Very good.
We communicate by twitter on the bikes. We have twitter set up so it comes across as text messages on our phones. We got rerouted during lunch which added about 7 miles to the ride due to road construction.
Mid afternoon we crossed the Connecticut River into Vermont and an old rust trestle bridge. Of course we had to stop for photos. Then we had several miles along the river. I love these rides. They are relatively flat and easy. Adventure Cycling Association maps keep you off of busy roads as much as possible. Many of the New England states have older roads along the river that have been replaced by more modern roads and many of these are named river road. I always like it when we have a river road on our route.
The last 4 miles had some extremely steep roads. My legs were definitely asking for mercy. We crossed a one lane covered bridge that required us to stop before starting the last ascent. I was about to get off and walk when I could hear cow bells and yelling at the top. I wouldn't have made it riding without that motivation. At the top there was a welcoming committee cheering us on. They had cold towels and watermelon to cool us down. This was our destination for the night, Thetford Center. There was an open space and community garden and the Community Center. The Community Center was an old church building that has been converted. We camped in the open field but there were no showers.
The Community Center provided us with dinner and breakfast. It was a real feast and very much appreciated. Many of the volunteers I recognized from You Tube videos of previous trips.
After dinner I washed up as best I could and washed my cycling clothes for the day in the bathroom sink. I was walking out to my tent when Nikki asked me if I would like my laundry done and a shower. One of the volunteers had offered to take us to her house. That was an offer I could not refuse. Pam lived 10 minutes away and it was over the same roads we had struggled with earlier in the day. They did not seem near as bad in a car. Pam did our laundry while we showered. She is a psychologist with 2 college student children. Her husband died last year from cancer. She drove us back to Thetford Center. It was dark and I immediately went to sleep since there was no cell service. We did not have cell service much of the day
Lincoln, NH to Thetford Center, VT. 50 miles.
This is a shorter day but the scheduling gods do not like us. There are several big hills right out of camp which are a real killer. Hills in the afternoon are a much easier when the muscles are warm and have been worked for half a day.
The only rest stop for the day is North Haverhill, NH at 30 miles. It is a challenging 30 miles but we know this is a relatively short day so we push through it. After the first 10 miles it is an easy 20 miles for the lunch stop in North Haverhill. There was a little county store with a deli counter where several of us had lunch. The other half of the group went across the bridge into Vermont for lunch. I had the large ham and cheese grinder. They do not have subs in New England, they are grinders. I should have had the small grinder since we had to hop right back on the bike. I have made that mistake several times and need to learn it soon. We walked across the street and sat in the shade to eat. Very good.
We communicate by twitter on the bikes. We have twitter set up so it comes across as text messages on our phones. We got rerouted during lunch which added about 7 miles to the ride due to road construction.
Mid afternoon we crossed the Connecticut River into Vermont and an old rust trestle bridge. Of course we had to stop for photos. Then we had several miles along the river. I love these rides. They are relatively flat and easy. Adventure Cycling Association maps keep you off of busy roads as much as possible. Many of the New England states have older roads along the river that have been replaced by more modern roads and many of these are named river road. I always like it when we have a river road on our route.
The last 4 miles had some extremely steep roads. My legs were definitely asking for mercy. We crossed a one lane covered bridge that required us to stop before starting the last ascent. I was about to get off and walk when I could hear cow bells and yelling at the top. I wouldn't have made it riding without that motivation. At the top there was a welcoming committee cheering us on. They had cold towels and watermelon to cool us down. This was our destination for the night, Thetford Center. There was an open space and community garden and the Community Center. The Community Center was an old church building that has been converted. We camped in the open field but there were no showers.
The Community Center provided us with dinner and breakfast. It was a real feast and very much appreciated. Many of the volunteers I recognized from You Tube videos of previous trips.
After dinner I washed up as best I could and washed my cycling clothes for the day in the bathroom sink. I was walking out to my tent when Nikki asked me if I would like my laundry done and a shower. One of the volunteers had offered to take us to her house. That was an offer I could not refuse. Pam lived 10 minutes away and it was over the same roads we had struggled with earlier in the day. They did not seem near as bad in a car. Pam did our laundry while we showered. She is a psychologist with 2 college student children. Her husband died last year from cancer. She drove us back to Thetford Center. It was dark and I immediately went to sleep since there was no cell service. We did not have cell service much of the day
Day + 4 May 30, 2016
Naples, NH to Lincoln, NH. 75 miles.
This is the hardest day of the trip. 75 miles with a big climb in the morning and the Kancamagus Pass in the afternoon.
We left early because of the big day ahead. Everyone was out of camp by 8 AM.
We started out with 3 steep hills in the morning which were very hard. Again cold muscles have a hard time with big strains. The first rest stop was at the library at Lovell after 25 miles. We had shade and nice bathrooms which are much appreciated. Many of the rest stops do not have bathrooms and we have to search for open facilities.
Second rest stop was only 15 miles further in Conway at the city park. The ride to Conway was much easier than the first 25 miles. Not as many hills and no monsters. Across the street from the park was a gas station. I got a turkey and cheese sandwich for lunch and 2 Gatorades.
The third rest stop was 25 more miles at the top of Kancamagus Pass. This is the hardest climb of the trip. It started off near a river but with a steady but not too difficult climb. We were on Passaconaway Rd which parallels the main road over the pass. There was no traffic at all and we could always see or hear the river. It was flowing quickly and there were many rapids. At the end of Passaconaway Road a covered bridge over rapids took us back to the Kancamagus Highway.
We stopped briefly shortly after getting onto Kancamagus Highway for pictures at a falls and scenic overlook. Many people were playing in the falls and we surely wanted to but did not have time. Once leaving the falls we had a long but manageable climb for about 10 miles. I was with Nikki and Ethan at this point. We were very fortunate to find a campground since all of us had run out of water. After filling up we continued on. It was good that this climb was in the afternoon when we had warm muscles. I definitely could not have made it in the morning.
We had a surprise rest stop 4 1/2 miles from the summit. Nikki and I had pulled quite a ways in front of Ethan and we pulled off for a quick breather. Ethan did not stop and pulled ahead. We headed out again when Ethan was about 200 yards ahead of us.
The last 4 1/2 miles was very difficult. The grade was 13 % most of the ways. The were a couple of times where it eased a little. I synchronized my pedal strokes with my breathing and concentrated on only that. I estimate I was going about 3-4 mph. At first I was doing 2 strokes for each breath and then one breath for each pedal stroke. I passed Nikki and Ethan within a half hour and then 2 riders from another group. I was so happy when the slope eased a bit because I thought we were near the top but it was a false hope. Fortunately the summit was only a quarter of a mile further. At the rest stop at the top they took pictures as we pulled in and had Gatorade, popsicles and Snickers bars for us. I stayed about 15 minutes but there were big flies that I swear had vampire teeth.
The descent to Lincoln was over 10 miles and very steep. I am more than a little chicken on the descents and used my brakes almost constantly. Fortunately the road was good and I still was flying. Some of the other riders said they hit over 55 mph. I was nowhere near that. I only pedaled a couple of times in 10 miles and would not have needed to but after going fast I was impatient with 25 mph.
Lincoln, NH was at the bottom. Ethan and I got to the bottom about the same time as Katie so the three of us stopped at a bar and had dinner. I had clam chowder and pizza. It was OK but near as good as the night before.
We then rode to Maple Haven Campground. It was just an open field with restroom building. OK but nothing special. But it was cool making nice sleeping weather.
Naples, NH to Lincoln, NH. 75 miles.
This is the hardest day of the trip. 75 miles with a big climb in the morning and the Kancamagus Pass in the afternoon.
We left early because of the big day ahead. Everyone was out of camp by 8 AM.
We started out with 3 steep hills in the morning which were very hard. Again cold muscles have a hard time with big strains. The first rest stop was at the library at Lovell after 25 miles. We had shade and nice bathrooms which are much appreciated. Many of the rest stops do not have bathrooms and we have to search for open facilities.
Second rest stop was only 15 miles further in Conway at the city park. The ride to Conway was much easier than the first 25 miles. Not as many hills and no monsters. Across the street from the park was a gas station. I got a turkey and cheese sandwich for lunch and 2 Gatorades.
The third rest stop was 25 more miles at the top of Kancamagus Pass. This is the hardest climb of the trip. It started off near a river but with a steady but not too difficult climb. We were on Passaconaway Rd which parallels the main road over the pass. There was no traffic at all and we could always see or hear the river. It was flowing quickly and there were many rapids. At the end of Passaconaway Road a covered bridge over rapids took us back to the Kancamagus Highway.
We stopped briefly shortly after getting onto Kancamagus Highway for pictures at a falls and scenic overlook. Many people were playing in the falls and we surely wanted to but did not have time. Once leaving the falls we had a long but manageable climb for about 10 miles. I was with Nikki and Ethan at this point. We were very fortunate to find a campground since all of us had run out of water. After filling up we continued on. It was good that this climb was in the afternoon when we had warm muscles. I definitely could not have made it in the morning.
We had a surprise rest stop 4 1/2 miles from the summit. Nikki and I had pulled quite a ways in front of Ethan and we pulled off for a quick breather. Ethan did not stop and pulled ahead. We headed out again when Ethan was about 200 yards ahead of us.
The last 4 1/2 miles was very difficult. The grade was 13 % most of the ways. The were a couple of times where it eased a little. I synchronized my pedal strokes with my breathing and concentrated on only that. I estimate I was going about 3-4 mph. At first I was doing 2 strokes for each breath and then one breath for each pedal stroke. I passed Nikki and Ethan within a half hour and then 2 riders from another group. I was so happy when the slope eased a bit because I thought we were near the top but it was a false hope. Fortunately the summit was only a quarter of a mile further. At the rest stop at the top they took pictures as we pulled in and had Gatorade, popsicles and Snickers bars for us. I stayed about 15 minutes but there were big flies that I swear had vampire teeth.
The descent to Lincoln was over 10 miles and very steep. I am more than a little chicken on the descents and used my brakes almost constantly. Fortunately the road was good and I still was flying. Some of the other riders said they hit over 55 mph. I was nowhere near that. I only pedaled a couple of times in 10 miles and would not have needed to but after going fast I was impatient with 25 mph.
Lincoln, NH was at the bottom. Ethan and I got to the bottom about the same time as Katie so the three of us stopped at a bar and had dinner. I had clam chowder and pizza. It was OK but near as good as the night before.
We then rode to Maple Haven Campground. It was just an open field with restroom building. OK but nothing special. But it was cool making nice sleeping weather.
Newcastle, NH to Naples, NH
Day + 2 May 29, 2016
Belfast, Maine to Damariscotta, Maine
Belfast, Maine to Damariscotta, Maine
D + 1 May 28, 2016I am totally bummed out because my new laptop purchased just for this trip will not power up. I was counting on it to store photos and videos, edit my blog and do whatever business I need to do. Since I do not have a computer I will have to rely on my phone and Face Book to keep everyone informed as much as possible. I will update the blog whenever I get access to a computer. Unfortunately I have no way of transferring photos from the camera to the library computer so no photos on the blog.
Also the bike computer stopped working. This is an inconvenience since I use it to keep track of distance to next turn, etc. I will just have to rely on other people more for navigation.
At 0730 I loaded my suitcase in the trailer and my day use stuff like sun screen, snacks, etc in my day cubby in the chase van. Then I rode down to the waterfront for the ceremonial tire dipping and photos. There was lots of cheering from the sendoff crowd.
Right off the bat we have what I then considered to be a big hill but I would soon find out was a bump in the road. We traversed the streets of Bar Harbor before heading out on Route 223 to our first rest stop in Ellsworth 23 miles away. I started riding with a whole gaggle of people before groups of people with similar riding speeds settled out. My first riding partner was Nikki and a couple other people. We were about in the middle of the pack as far as speed. I soon switched to Sharon and Jennifer because they were a little faster. The van was parked in front of a little Coop with a restaurant and a few little shops. There was a farmers market next door.
The next rest stop was East Orland at 43 miles. Sharon and Jennifer rode the Trans Am route last year so were much better at navigation than I. I also had to work to keep up with them on the hills but it seemed to work out well. I really liked the little villages in Maine. Our rest stop in East Orland was by a park on the main street right across the street from a little deli. I went to the deli and purchased 3 bananas and 3 apples. Walking back to the rest stop a gentleman stopped me and gave me $20 dollars after I told him about our ride. That same scenario has happened almost every day since.
Our final destination for day 1 was the Belfast, ME city park. It was a little windy so it took me a while to put up the tent but sleeping was great with a low of 50 degrees. The campground had showers. I was dead tired from 67 miles and went to sleep by 9 PM after dinner in town.
Also the bike computer stopped working. This is an inconvenience since I use it to keep track of distance to next turn, etc. I will just have to rely on other people more for navigation.
Day + 1 May 28, 2016
Bar Harbor, Maine to Belfast Maine. 67 miles. I had ridden over 4000 miles over the last 10 months in preparation for this trip and thought I was well prepared. And talking to the others 4000 miles was by far the most anyone had ridden. So I thought this wouldn't be too hard. Just a couple miles out from Bar Harbor we hit the first big hill and reality came crashing in. It was hard because it was a big hill and because it was early in the morning and the muscles were not yet warm.At 0730 I loaded my suitcase in the trailer and my day use stuff like sun screen, snacks, etc in my day cubby in the chase van. Then I rode down to the waterfront for the ceremonial tire dipping and photos. There was lots of cheering from the sendoff crowd.
Right off the bat we have what I then considered to be a big hill but I would soon find out was a bump in the road. We traversed the streets of Bar Harbor before heading out on Route 223 to our first rest stop in Ellsworth 23 miles away. I started riding with a whole gaggle of people before groups of people with similar riding speeds settled out. My first riding partner was Nikki and a couple other people. We were about in the middle of the pack as far as speed. I soon switched to Sharon and Jennifer because they were a little faster. The van was parked in front of a little Coop with a restaurant and a few little shops. There was a farmers market next door.
The next rest stop was East Orland at 43 miles. Sharon and Jennifer rode the Trans Am route last year so were much better at navigation than I. I also had to work to keep up with them on the hills but it seemed to work out well. I really liked the little villages in Maine. Our rest stop in East Orland was by a park on the main street right across the street from a little deli. I went to the deli and purchased 3 bananas and 3 apples. Walking back to the rest stop a gentleman stopped me and gave me $20 dollars after I told him about our ride. That same scenario has happened almost every day since.
Our final destination for day 1 was the Belfast, ME city park. It was a little windy so it took me a while to put up the tent but sleeping was great with a low of 50 degrees. The campground had showers. I was dead tired from 67 miles and went to sleep by 9 PM after dinner in town.
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