The day had finally arrived! After supporting the Gregs through the desert over the last few days, it was finally time to hop into some very cushioned bike shorts and continue the trip with the guys on bike. The right combination of nerves and excitement kept my energy at an impressively high level, as I had been waiting for this moment for quite some time. The morning began with breakfast prepared by our gracious hosts, Pat and Rachel, who had been kind enough to share their Fourth of July with us. After our final goodbyes,we were on the road.
We left Boise on a very scenic bike trail that overlooked the city and the mountains with a rising sun in the background. Our (original) goal was to cycle to Mountain Homes (which was neither homey or associated with any mountains), a 45 mile trek. The route of choice for the day was interstate 84 (yes, cycling the interstate in Idaho is legal). Admittedly, I was a bit apprehensive about biking on the interstate, as thoughts of traffic and the mess that is Connecticut highways persisted in my mind. Fortunately, these thoughts were quickly extinguished. The interstate leaving Boise had only two lanes and a very wide shoulder separating us from the cars. Best of all traffic was minimal, and most cars gave us an extra lane of room while passing.
The interstate proved to be a good decision, as we benefitted from the smooth roads and gradual climbs/ downhills. We coasted along, often maintaining a speed over 20 mph, with top speeds of 39 mph reached on a very rewarding 2 mile long decent. Our only complication was a poorly placed nail that found its way into Greg's back tire.
With momentum on our side, we reached our original destination around 11:00. Our legs were still fresh and making great time on the interstate so after a quick slurpy intervention, we made the obvious decision to carry on to Glenn's Ferry, another 35 miles (for a total of 70 miles). The second leg of our trek proved as rewarding as the first as we were gifted with miles of downhill decent that helped us reach speeds in the mid thirties. After about 25 miles, the interstate became parallel to a river which offered more scenic views.
As beautiful as the route had become, my legs were starting to feel the tole of the first day of riding, and I began counting the miles until we would reach our destination.
Upon arrival to Glenn's Ferry, we stopped at a minimart for some much needed air conditioning and rehydration. The day had began to reach its peak temperatures (upper 90s) and we felt it on the road. Eager to rest, we headed to the camp grounds where we would be spending the night, and set up camp.
Photos by Jonathan Kobles
You guys are the bomb.com! Stalking the blog as ever, so glad all three of you are together at last! =)
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