Day 8

Today was a glorious, luxurious day.  We left Timberline Lodge at 9:30 (unprecedented luxury for these events) heading to Detroit Oregon.  For those unfamiliar with this metropolis, here is a map.  I am writing this on a small porch that looks out on Detroit Lake

It is a funny little lake that is drained beginning 15 September to prevent snowmelt flooding.  But, now, as you can see it is full and attractive.

This morning's ride was rare; for the first 10 miles I had 29.7 MPH average.  It was probably just as well that it was rather windy or I might have opened it up even more, risking injury and death.  The rest of the ride had a few climbs of some magnitude but the general trajectory was downward.  It was a PERFECT cycling day.  The route lacked majestic vistas or a cluster of photo ops.  But, from a cycling point of view it could not have been improved upon.  The temperatures were moderate, the road surfaces good, and the surrounding appealing in every way.  I did take one pic

which I admit is not much but it does show us entering the Willamette National Forest, where we stayed for the remainder of the ride.

In all, I am feeling well and strong but we shall see tomorrow.  Tomorrow is a big day, 130 miles with two major mountain passes, most particularly Mackenzie Pass which, according to all reports is spectacular.  We shall see.  I will report.