Salida to Pueblo, Colorado
95.2 miles
6 hours, 19 minutes
2,861' climbing
15.1 mph average speed
32.9 mph maximum
3,852 calories
Long day. As we leave the Rocky Mountains behind, we rode mostly downhill except for 4 mile climb in middle of route. Early on we followed the Arkansas River. Breathtaking views as we rounded bends in canyons we rode through. We saw many rafting outfitters along our route and met several people at our first SAG stop who were about to embark on a water ride down the river.
At the second SAG, a storm cloud seemed to be threatening our perfect streak of rain free travel. I placed some needed calls back east, then hustled my way back on the road for the final 30 miles into Pueblo. The earlier friendly winds turned hostile. It was work to stay up to a respectable speed level and ride through the occasional strong gusts.
About 7 miles from the hotel, the DQ beacon caught my eye and I pulled in for a repeat of an earlier visit this last week of fruit smoothie and chili dogs. While there I got a follow-up phone call and decided I needed to cut my trip short and head back east. I'm only missing three more riding days but it's more important to get back right now.
There are 9 other riders who are leaving at this rest day in Pueblo, leaving a smaller party of 11 continuing on to New Hampshire completing the full coast to coast tour. Those who were leaving had a chance to address the group for some parting words. Although I'm glad to be heading home, I'd have liked to have more time with these strong riders.
I will post an epilogue in the days to come.
Clouds low in front of Rockies
One of many views following Arkansas River. Running fast off of mountains
Veteran Memorial Park outside of Pueblo
Cloud heading my way: Picked up bike and managed to escape it
Saddle shoes and bobby socks come to mind
Cayenne Red
All driven here on the road
Didn't your parents have on of these?
Left side of Trio
Right side of Trio
Sharped Dressed Man would drive this.
Odd. Just odd.
Detail of hubs on one car
Fingers on purpose
People in witness protection program or so they said
Luggage and gear wagon
Congratulations Jim on completing another tour. It sounds like the scenery was terrific, as were the climbs! Are you going to try and meet up with the group at the end of the tour? Again congrats.
ReplyDeleteBruce, Yes. I’m planning on driving up to Brattleboro to see them before they head out on the last leg to the Atlantic,
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