Today was going to be an epic day. One way or another no matter how it turned out.
It started a bit on the “iffy” side. I had listened to the wind in the trees all night. Wind always makes me nervous. When I woke up, the wind was still rustling in the trees. Once I got on the road, I figured out that it doesn’t take much wind to rustle aspen trees. The wind was no going to be a factor today.
Today was the day to climb Independence Pass! A true monster. And I had a plan! My camp was at approx. 9200 feet and I had to climb to 12,095. So basically 2900 feet. My previous experience would say that this would take about 3 hours. So my great plan was to go for 2 hours and take a break before taking on the last 1000 feet. Seemed like a great plan.
The climbing was hard, but about the same effort as the other big passes I have gone up on the trip so far. But the altitude. That would be the big difference on Independence Pass. So on I pedaled. So right at 2 hours I stopped. Not because I needed to though. I WAS AT THE TOP!
I was pretty pleased with that effort. So much for the plan, right?
I also crossed the Continental Divide for the 7th and final time for the trip.
Today, there were lots of cyclists at the top. I was the only one touring so I got to claim bragging rights for the hardest climb of all of them. I didn’t tell them that I did it in a 38-26 gear.
Next was the second most fun part (climbing the pass was the funnest part). The downhill. I covered a lot of ground and lost a lot of altitude quickly. Very quickly. On to the Twin Lakes where I had a much deserved lunch. Then lastly down to Buena Vista along the Arkansas River.
Today was truly epic. And Epic in the very best sense of that word.
Note: I know I should have taken more pictures. I think that was the altitude causing my brain to malfunction. That is my excuse.
I like your comment- “climbing was the funnest part”- I’m with you brother!! Its all downhill from here!
Maybe you could have mentioned, “where’s the nearest bike shop where I can get short gears…like you guys have.” Naaah. But, first funniest, both of you got it right. There is something special about savoring life hanging out at the top. I feel a little deflated after a long descent. Good job!
I would have been dead at the 6K ft mark without hauling 70lbs of stuff! You go Greg!
Greg, you’re living the dream! I hope to follow in your tire-tracks (figuratively and not literally speaking) one day and do a solo tour cross-country! And YES, more pictures please! One day you will regret NOT taking more! But I know it’s hard when you are in a groove to stop and take pics…but think of your FANS!
Matt- i am looking forward to when you do your tour. Most people are touring on specific touring bikes like the one you just got. You are ready!
I am taking lots of photos. I only post a few of them. I can post photos from my iPhone easily. Most of my photos are on my regular camera though.