Why is the vault toilet so much warmer than my tent in the early morning? I have wondered that for the past two mornings as I sit longer than I probably should enjoying all the creature comforts at a campsite.

I was trying not to wake the 22-month-old in the tent adjacent to mine this morning slightly before sunrise as I prepared for the day’s activities, which include cycling of course. Today would be almost entirely on gravel roads and that is always good.

The first few miles today were peaceful and the roads were still a little wet from the early evening thunderstorm. The sage brush ended temporarily and it seemed to be a bird sanctuary in the grassy area where I found myself riding. I saw a couple herons, a bald eagle getting harassed by some smaller birds, a brown-headed cowbird, and the list could go on and on.

It was not long until I arrived at the Back Country Byway, which I would almost spend the rest of day, outside of a few miles on a frontage road to get me to Lima. The byway was simply amazing. A gradual climb with spectacular views kept getting better and better. Once over the top of the only significant climb today and the views were now all around as I was in a bowl.

As I was cutting across the amazing bowl, I saw my first pronghorn run from the field on my right and across the road to my left. This pronghorn looked very strong as it climbed up the hill. I have yet to get a photo of these quick animals.

Eventually, I found myself riding down a very impressive canyon following Big Sheep Creek. I did not see any sheep, but the views were incredible and it was a really spectacular scenery change from the beginning of the day.

I made it to Lima and the rumor is they have a really nice steak joint that I will have to visit to verify. Laundry is about done and the afternoon storm has arrived. Good thing I selected the Motel option at the Mountain View Motel RV Park.