There were several factors that combines to create a truly atrocious day:
1. My breakfast was entirely insubstantial. I've found it to really be the most important meal of the day when you're riding. This morning in Walden, I ate some peanuts and a Clif bar with the intention of getting a real breakfast in the town of Cowdrey, 15 miles away. But, when I got to Cowdrey, there was literally nobody and nothing there. No grocery store to buy more food and no restaurant to patronize. My map led me astray. And the next town on the way? Riverside, 35 miles away. So I rode 50 miles on very little food. It sucked. I'm sorry, Mom.
2. The terrain in Wyoming: I hate it. Once you get to the crest of a hill, you can see the road continue for 5-6 miles into the horizon. I hate that so much. I get really dejected when I can see all the hills I have to climb from so far away. I miss the sharp, unexpected turns in the mountains.
Also, there is NOTHING to look at and barely any cars drive past. It makes me feel really lonely when I'm the only sign of life six miles ahead and six miles behind.
3. It's Wyoming. I have very little hope for improvement and I have to make it through the entire state.
4. Mosquitoes. Billions of them. I have my own entourage.
I rode 68 miles today. That puts me at 140+ for the last two days. I want to keep this pace up so I can get out of here.
The single highlight of my day: I stopped by the side of the road to drink out of my Camelbak. I had, however, unknowingly stopped next to a cattle ranch with 100+ cows. The animals got really spooked by my presence and, I kid you not, all ran away. I caused a stampede with my presence. I'm cool.
Still looking for a place to pitch the tent in Saratoga, Wy. I'll let you know if I find anything.
P.S. Sorry for bashing Wyoming so much, Mark. But it really does suck.
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bechara bechcha! Wy, sounds like Karachi with curfew after the riots!
ReplyDeleteShamee, are you close to Deer Haven RV Park, Saratoga? I see it favorable for your ride break.
How far is Yellowstone...i love that place but never got to see it, throw some pennies in the geysers on my behalf!
Love you
A
So you caused stampede among 100+ cows! Hahaha that's so funny.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWhat I never understood: Why do they let you kill a billion bison in Oregon Trail but only let you haul a fifth of the meat?
ReplyDeleteTotally relevant contribution.
OMG...Did Kinza just mention Oregon Trail? Please tell me you're talking about crazy elementary we got to play as kids.
ReplyDeleteAnd Shahmeer, yes Wyoming sucks. That's why I questioned if you really wanted to trek across the state. :) Now I get to start another journal, I think I'll call "I Told Ya So". This will be entry 7. Mosquito repellent was 2, following sun screen. :) Oh and I get to add carry at least 3-4 days of provisions, because Wyoming sucks and you could go a full day until you get to the next town. Geez, it's only week 1. I'm gonna have a novel be your adventure's conclusion.
All kidding aside, I'm impressed with how far you've traveled. Those Wyoming roads were so tiresome via car that I can't imagine how monotonous the landscape must seem while pedaling.