Three other cyclists showed up later yesterday and the back lot began to look more like a normal campsite, well maybe. One rider was on the GDMBR southbound and made it to his destination for his journey, Salida, and was returning to Breckenridge to catch a ride back home. A dad and son were on a mix bag of routes making their way across the United States to Portland, Maine. Meanwhile, I had the primo spot for my tent location in the back lot that offered the best wind protection.

I decided to stay in Hartsel this morning and have breakfast since the cafe opened at 6 am and the day was going to be shorter due to less mileage planned. I was the first in line waiting for the open sign to illuminate and when it did, I thankfully ordered the two stack of pancakes versus the triple stacker. I could not finish these two huge pancakes no matter how hard I tried.

I knew heading out the door I was in store for some more washboard roads and it would be about 16 miles worth. I also knew the biting flies would be out scouting for their newest victims so I planned on wearing my rain pants all day.

I would be lying if I said today the washboards where not aggravating after a few miles. It made the pancake digestion difficult to say the least. It was a game of trying to find a line that minimized the rattling. Luckily, all my gear remained on the bike and I eventually found better roads.

There would be one climb today and it seemed to be gradual until the last three miles. Once on top, the view of Salida and the surrounding mountains was breathtaking and so worth all the challenges it took to get to the top.

The descent down into Salida was amazing and I kept looking around and sometimes over my shoulder and just thinking to myself just how unbelievable the views turned out to be today. It was definitely the highlight of the day and perfect way to roll into Salida for the evening.

Today will be a good day to relax to prepare for more serious climbing in the days to come. I am looking forward to Southern Colorado and more beautiful mountains that will be coming my way.