Day 2: Camping vs Climbing

Our first overnight on the road was spent camping in a tent. We have not done that for many years now, but it always seemed enjoyable. Last night was anything but enjoyable; it was cold, actually dipped down to 32 degrees during the night. After a long, cold day on the bike, all I needed was a long hot shower and good night’s sleep. Well, I got neither; the shower was short and our air mattress lost air. We were sleeping on the ground by morning. However, the absolute worst was needing to get up every two hours to go potty in the cold- my re-hydration protocol needs some improvement.

Still cold in the morning, we ate another great meal and bundled up to climb above 4000 feet elevation, descend 1600, and then climb back up to 4000 feet. We spent almost all day climbing; an average 6% grade with a maximum of 11%. It took us three and a half hours to travel 30 miles and we finished in the first arriving group. The rides are so different than anything in Wisconsin. One ascent today was about nine miles long. We are riding these with a group of ten or so,, which changes every day, at 5 to 6 mph. Around every corner is a picturesque photo opportunity.

Based on our initial exposure, I am not sure which will be more challenging the camping or the climbing. It might just be the camping. Our novice pedaler, Lisa, is holding her own as we occasionally pass single riders on the uphills.

Big day tomorrow. It’s laundry day. In addition to providing our food/beverage, setting up tents , transporting luggage, providing route information , and pampering us, Bubba and staff perform laundry duties. Fifty-two days without having to cook or do laundry is a true vacation.

Good Night (as the coyotes serenade us), “It’s ALL Good”