Miles biked today was 74 - we left Republic at 5:10AM and it was a little cool but as the day progressed and we made it over the pass and down into the valley the temperatures reached 92 degrees - we biked about 20 miles on new black top (do you know how hot that is).
Today's climb went quite well, only 14 miles and 2-3/4 hours to climb approximately 2000 ft followed by 30 miles of downhill and then another 30 miles of minor ups and downs. Wauconda Pass wasn't as scenic as Sherman Pass but it still had plenty of gorgous views to oooh and ahh about. As soon as we cleared Wauconda Pass and started decending the landscape changed dramaticly as the western side of the Cascades do not get nearly as much precipatation as the east side. The west side has near desert conditions and the scenery reminded me a lot of Utah.
As of today we have completed 4 of the 6 serious climes on our route and the end of our tour is in site! We are already having withdrawls and wondering what we'll do next. I have a feeling there will be more biking trips to follow.
Today's climb went quite well, only 14 miles and 2-3/4 hours to climb approximately 2000 ft followed by 30 miles of downhill and then another 30 miles of minor ups and downs. Wauconda Pass wasn't as scenic as Sherman Pass but it still had plenty of gorgous views to oooh and ahh about. As soon as we cleared Wauconda Pass and started decending the landscape changed dramaticly as the western side of the Cascades do not get nearly as much precipatation as the east side. The west side has near desert conditions and the scenery reminded me a lot of Utah.
As of today we have completed 4 of the 6 serious climes on our route and the end of our tour is in site! We are already having withdrawls and wondering what we'll do next. I have a feeling there will be more biking trips to follow.
Congratulations! I recognize many of the places in your photos, having lived in the Puget Sound area for several years.
ReplyDeleteIf you have the time and inclination, try and make a trip to Victoria, BC via ferry. It is a charming and romantic Canadian port with incredible architecture, lively street performers, gorgeous scenery--all with a very europeon feel. Easy to walk or bike, too.
Have a safe trip!
Rick Mertens
West Lafayette, IN