Monday morning began with bags to the van by 6:15 and breakfast on our own. My instant gluten free oatmeal and a banana from the hotel was great. I headed out early, stopped by the hotel where a friend was checking out and beginning her way back to Austin with a few days layover in Colorado. She is taking a duffle bag of "stuff" home for me. Lightening my load! Amazing how little I really need. She offered me a ride home and for a moment I got homesick.
I turned down the offer and rode off to see the Teton National park. This was to be a 103 mile day. It was cold and colder weather at the top of the mountain was predicted, so I had arm warmers, leg warmers and a rain jacket just in case it snowed, hailed or ?
Climbs were gentle at first. The mountains and Snake river were absolutely amazing . The smell of the pines and the cool dry air was so refreshing - fed my soul! (pictures will come later )
After the park, the climb was 6-8 %, gaining elevation to the point of wondering if I would ever reach the top. The road was under construction in several areas.
The reward for the day of climbing was a 30 mile downhill with a few climbs in between the screaming fast descents. I did glance at my odometer as I feathered my brakes and saw 40 mph.
The tail wind which sometimes changed to cross winds, and gravel were challenging me and the road queen to stay upright. Big fun!! Reminded me of mountain biking on a road bike at times.
We made it to dinner first and were ready to feast after a full day of riding. Bed time. Tomorrow is an 80 mi day. Slight down hill. Gentle day. Today was major fun!!
Norma
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