So far, so good........We left Everett early this a.m at about 6:45 a.m. Even though no rain was predicted, it sprinkled a bit in the starting parking lot, just to remind us all that we were in western Washington. It was deliciously cool for the first 50 miles as we ground up Stevens Pass, temperature in the low 60's. After Skykomish, we took a route that I wasn't aware of. I have climbed Stevens Pass about 5 times, an there is a turnoff sign for the Iron Goat trail, which I had always thought to be a path, or a gravel road. Actually, it is a beautiful paved road that winds uphill in shaded forest, away from the busy route 2. Then later, we took the old Stevens Pass highway, which has been largely abandoned, but still passable for cyclists. I reached the top of the pass in about 5 hours, then began the long descent to Wenatchee. It should have been relatively effortless, and while it is indeed downhill, and although we had a tailwind sometimes, the temperature was a problem......it rose over 40 degrees in the next 40 miles, up to 105 degrees for the last 20 miles, which is unpleasant to ride in. I felt really good today......I was the first rider to get to the motel in Wenatchee. I averaged 17.6 mph which is pretty decent, considering the big climb up Stevens.
127 miles, 5600 vertical feet
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5 comments:
Excellent! Pretty amazing to zoom so fast . Not at all surprised you left all the whipper-snappers behind! I'm wishing for cooler weather for tomorrow for you. Much love, ME
Good Job John --- we are going to stalk you this whole time ! Way to KSA on your first day!
Steph and Andrew:)
John: Great to hear that you had a good first day. It will be fun to follow your progress. Everything cool and calm at work.
John, good job! We are pulling for you! Keep cool. I am so proud of you.
John. That is fantastic. First rider to the hotel after an incredible day over the Cascades. Every day and every mile is great work. We'll be thinking of you all along your journey.
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