Ever since we left New York, crossing the Appalachian Mountains had been a big milestone. We knew the range had nothing like the height or reputation of its western siblings, but this gnarly, weatherbeaten series of ridges was intimidating. And while we only nudged 3000 feet a couple of times, that intimidation was richly deserved. Finally, when we crossed the Ohio River this morning at Wheeling, WV, and entered Ohio, that milestone had been accomplished.
But the very day that the one objective had been accomplished, another was proving impossible. It had finally sunk in, that while we made it from New York to Ohio in 16 days, we just weren’t going to make it to California in the four weeks we had left. The solution seemed obvious.
Rather than use our remaining time biking across the flatlands of Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and then New Mexico, we decided to take a couple of days and drive to New Mexico and use the rest of the time biking God’s country: the lands west of the 100th meridian.
While the cultivated polish of Princeton, the Amish buggies of Lancaster County and the brilliant autumn hardwoods of western Marilyn and Pennsylvania merited passage at 8 to 15 mph, the flatlands of the middle west seemed better viewed at 60 to 70 mph. Besides, the drive would be fun, a welcome break in the biking.
To be continued:
I think the drive is a GREAT idea !! I’m exhausted just reading your blog !! I have a hard time riding a bike 5 miles let alone 500 !! Yes, the luxury of sitting in a car !! Have fun and keep us posted.
Well, I’m disappointed that you two are not going to get into Texas…might have even have met you…anyway, I understand….from NM on to CA will be far enuff in 4 weeks…are u still going to celebrate your birthday in ohio? wishin y’all the best!
I like your change, very creative.
All the best-
Just catching up on your Blog. I envy your experience and admire your endurance. When you get back to Calif., here’s hoping you still want to bike with us wimps.