Yep, made it to Idaho Falls today. Unbelievable ride from many perspectives, not the least of which was that I rode the entire day (about 450 miles) in high desert. For you novices, that means high elevation plains, with dry, arid desert like environments.
The first 130 miles was through remarkable territory continuing in the Oregon Badlands. I rode the Central Oregon Highway, with Miles and miles of two lane sweeping turns, with a few "twisities" thrown in to keep me on my toes. But it was fabulous. It was early in the day so the temperature was moderate.
Now I have to confess...I didn't ride alone today. I rode side by side with the Malheur River. It is a very long, winding river, and sometimes I rode on its right, and others I rode on its left. Very cool. It was beautiful, and was the primary source of irrigation for the area. I rode through 3 brush fires, due to the very dry conditions in the desert.
Into Idaho and into the furnace. The ride through the high desert in Idaho was wicked...around 100 F or higher in places. The wind already wicks out your moisture; add to that incredibly low humidity. I had to stop every 75 miles or so to hydrate! Sheesh, it was wicked hot.
The ride has been incredible...it has slowed down my riding, made me more patient...not doubt the distances are so great that speeding up doesnt' get you there much sooner...just a speeding ticket if you are not careful. It is about pacing yourself...an intermediate city or goal in mind by the end of the day, and the time to observe, stop, engage....very cool.
How great can this be? I am sooo very lucky. But miss Frances and Jazz and our home...but needed to do this.
Again tomorrow. More later.
And we miss you , Greg ! Come back with your Frances to visit and see more of the wonderful Rogue Valley . So great seeing and being with you . Traveling Mercies to you always , Rebecca and Joe
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