The wind really howled last night so I had no idea what to expect for the day ahead.
When I awoke, the weather had settled down. No wind and sunny skies. I am feeling pretty tired from 8 days on the bike, but instead of a rest day, I decided to opt for a short, easier day. It would only be about 30 miles to Red Canyon and the choice of several campgrounds.
What a difference a day makes, or a State for that matter. I left the sage brush immediately after leaving Manila. And I was climbing. I guess one had to do with the other! I was entering the Red Canyon part of Flaming Gorge NRA. At Sheep Creek, I met some locals.
From there, it was uphill. A couple thousand feet uphill and I used ALL the gears including the small ring this time!
The sage turned to piñon pine, and as I climbed higher yet, to ponderosa pine forest. The day might have been shorter, but is was not easier! I kept waiting to get to the summit of my climb, but it only teased me. I would get to a downhill but would only last for a half mile and start climbing back up again. This went on for the entire morning and into the early afternoon. I really never got to a “summit” per se I think I spent most of the day over 8,000 feet, but there was no way to tell for sure.
I did however get to the Red Canyon overlook area. But I was really gased at this point. I went to the Red Canyon Lodge for lunch and then immediately headed for the campground. Then I did something I rarely do…… I took a nap! For 2 hours.
About 5:30 I rode out to the overlook area.
This part of Flaming Gorge really was spectacular, especially from 1700 feet above the reservoir. No sage brush in sight.
After viewing the gorge from the overlook, I headed back to the Red Canyon Lodge for dinner. Then it was off to the tent for an early night. So much for an easy day. But it was all worth the effort.
Your retired naps are allowed now!
It looks like you were quite close to that local!
He was not very afraid of people. Probably about 15 feet, but he was on the other side of the guardrail.
HI Greg- the fact that you had to use all your gears (seated and standing) is quite impressive considering your dragging a 85 lb bike up the mountain. I’m really enjoying your enhanced ride descriptions (terrain, vegetation, history, landmarks) and photos (compared to your first few days of your ride). A lot of use working stiffs are living vicariously through your blog and your exploits- you are truly living the dream. be safe (and stay thirsty) my friend!!