tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088054975312070842024-03-14T02:04:51.287-07:00Cycling the Pacific CoastVancouver to TijuanaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-48389237596081474482012-09-14T17:53:00.001-07:002012-09-15T09:31:07.058-07:00Day 40: We've only gone an bloomin' done it - Carlsbad to the Mexican Border!Up early and on the road by 7, we were both really excited and anxious to get finished. There was quite a heavy fog, but it was still pretty hot following one road pretty much to San Diego. <br />
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All of the towns along this stretch Enchinitas, Cardiff by the Sea, Solana Beach were really great little towns - all with surf shacks and java bars and spraling white sandy beaches. Even at 7am the towns were buzzing with people running and getting their surf in before work - total West Coast lifestyle.<br />
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A big climb into Del Mar definately got our blood pumping, but apart from the sweat dripping from my head it actually wasn't too bad - I must be getting good at this cycling lark... although after the descent I realised that I had a front puncture - noooo!<br />
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We stopped and changed it pretty quick, but realised after we had loaded the bike back up, that we had put the wheel in wrong... ah!! We finally got sorted again after about 30 mins and was back on the road with our fingers crossed it wouldn't happen again.<br />
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We took a scenic road through La Jolla entering San Diego city, the place was gorgeous. We stopped for a quick break to see a cove full of snorklers and seals. It was a pretty nice ride keeping to the coast. The bike path along Mission Beach was a similar, but more chilled out, ride to those boardwalks in LA.Taking the Mission Bay drive through Mission Bay Park and through Point Loma - we really wanted to power through, but were starving so stopped for a quick bite.<br />
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Past the US naval reservation, a bike path again took us into downtown where we met a couple of guys from Macclesfield who were also finishing at the boarder following the book route. <br />
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We had wanted to take the ferry to Coronado to take the scnic route along the strand, but we had just missed a boat and didn't fancy waiting 50 mins - we just wanted to finish. Now heading the same way as the guys, we followed the book route which took a less scenic route through the industrial section if town - not too pleasing on the eye but definitely a lot quicker. However, the road we needed was closed off for road works, but us and another cyclist decided to just go for it through the building site and nobody stopped us, thank goodness we didn't need a detour at this point!<br />
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The route took us into Chula Vista where Tijuana started to appear on the bike route signs. Reaching the summit of one hill we could see Mexico over the border - wow so close! Passing through the last small town San Ysidro which was full of money exchange shops and immigration "specialists". Turning the corner there it was... the San Ysido/Tijuana border!<br />
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Wow we made it!!! Can't believe we've gone and bloomin' done it.<br />
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There were so many times we thought we wouldn't but we're here, it hasn't really sunk in yet. It just goes to prove what you can do when you put your mind to something and have amazing people behind you.<br />
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Thank you so much to everyone from the bottom of our hearts for all of your support.<br />
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...you never know, maybe this time next year we'll be millionaires!<br />
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Miles today 59. Total miles 1840.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT6fef1i3yLz26201-nsr6zff9AIbMbEiJHAgfoidiPiw1-eh92bHb7ZIUR-6vAokCFy6Ud8hyUcnzsudwWfLmsE9PFrZLIJGUFyLIEcXvObqo0Fi0CVT0GdHEcRL6yBnqDUTfYwtGK5M/" />Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-18375925191649404242012-09-13T19:56:00.001-07:002012-09-15T09:31:29.210-07:00Day 39: Are we nearly there yet? - Huntington Beach to Carlsbad<div>
The day began with a pleasant spin down the beach bicycle path, but that was only to last for a few miles, then we were on to the PCH and in this part of California the car is king so it was very busy.<br />
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As we were cycling through the next town, Newport Beach, which I believe was the setting of popular TV series 'The OC', we got talking to another cyclist who guided us off the highway for a while and took us on a tour of some if Newport's most salubrious neighbourhoods, the houses were amazing some right next to the water with luxury boats parked outside. So thanks for the tour Harver and for getting us away from the traffic for a while.<br />
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We then cycled on through the nice beach town of Laguna Beach where we stopped to look at the ocean and get some lunch and then it was onwards through more beach towns, Dana Point and Capistrano Beach then to San Clemente.<br />
In San Clamente our route took us through another tour of town streets before heading out of town on a bike path. Then we were out of built up areas for a while.<br />
First we went through some state beaches sandwiched between the train tracks and the freeway on one side and the ocean on the other, past a nuclear power plant and then headed inland for a rather unique section of the ride.<br />
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The area of the coast between San Clemente and Oceanside is dominated by Camp Pendleton Marine Reservation and the only road that disects it is the I5 freeway where bikes are not allowed, so our only route was through the camp. We had to show ID at the entry gate and then we were allowed to cycle through the camp for the next ten miles. We saw some signs for 'Tank Crossing' and a few military vehicles but other than that it was like cycling through a university in many ways.<br />
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After Camp Pendleton we headed back to the beaches at the town of Oceanside and then on to Carlsbad where we finished for the day.<br />
Close to the end now.<br />
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Miles today 58. Total miles 1781.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUJalsHA7n_9_ibija2wnMskjh2n-YUuFia8hdEG75a5KNqoVS1Ad_eJAxTZcGRZhyphenhyphendZHEnB4Q9BjbwIvZ_66jr7X6dPC3fUScZv_oydJsOg1O6Uo_xyY0XMmaSrtzMAtYK8G61hdqhA/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-74076786989185058492012-09-12T22:51:00.001-07:002012-09-15T09:34:38.095-07:00Day 38: This ain't no disco, it ain't no country club either... Malibu to Huntington Beach<div>
Our stay in the Malibu Motel was so relaxing, you could hear the ocean through our window in the night, so we both felt really rejuvenated in the morning. Setting off just before 9am along a really busy Highway 1, even though there was a shoulder there were cars parked so it made it quite unsafe to ride along, so reaching the bike path on the beach at Santa Monica was well received. We treated ourselves to a breakfast burrito on the beach.<br />
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The bike path was amazing, taking you right along the beach, even through the sand in some places along Santa Monica, Venice and Manhattan beach. The path was buzzing - yummy mummies running with Prams, cyclists of all shapes an sizes, I even saw a guy in his 80's roller blading - he was such a dude!<br />
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At Redondo beach the path took us through a hotel car park which was really strange, but out at the pier where we took to the LA roads. It wasn't too bad at first, with a bike path most if the time or a large shoulder. As we rode through Carson however, it was a different story. The road surface was awful, no shoulder and three lanes of really fast traffic heading for the freeway entrance. The worst thing was we thought we had gone the wrong way and went back on ourselves so ended up cycling the bridge over the railway lines twice.<br />
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Finally we made it to the bike path, which was nice to be off the road but it was pretty deralict - it was up high with one side the Los Angeles river, which looked like the bit where they filmed the race scene in Grease and industrial on the other. It was easy to get some speed up and we were in the marina and Shoreline village which reminded me a little of Vancouver. The bike path continued along Bluff Park with white sandy beach all the way along and filled with kite surfers. <br />
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Back onto the road on 2nd street over Alamitos bay which was full of swimmers and dragon boat racers - everyone in this city seems to be either at the beach or in a car! Turning onto the PCH towards Seal Beach we realised we had done it - LA - and still lived to tell the tale.<br />
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Another bike path at Sunset beach took us all the way to Huntington Beach where we called it a day and had our first fish taco - oh my god amazing!<br />
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Miles today 62. Total miles 1723.<br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-55171973561651375152012-09-11T22:29:00.000-07:002012-09-12T22:39:05.350-07:00Day 37: The Long Haul- Santa Barbara to Malibu<div>
Up and out early into the sunshine.<br />
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The day started with a ride through Santa Barbara in the early morning sun, Santa Barbara is a lovely town, lots of nice Spanish architecture and you have the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other.<br />
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The ride continued on through the towns of Summerland, Carpintera & Ventura, where we cycled along bike paths and beaches full of surfers, this is SoCal as you would imagine it to be, except for the weather, upon leaving Santa Barbara a fog had rolled in and the day was to remain overcast, so none of the famous California sunshine today, ah well you can't have it all.<br />
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After Ventura we cycled through the towns of Oxnard & Port Hueneme then headed out down a mountainous rugged section of coastline that would probably be our last stretch of open country riding before we hit LA. The start of this section was met with a huge headwind that had me riding in my uphill gearing it was so strong, luckily it did not last.<br />
As we stopped to look at the ocean we saw a school of dolphins swimming by which was a lovely sight, we have been so lucky to have seen so much amazing wildlife on this trip.<br />
Following that we hit the sprawling community of Malibu. So many huge and amazing houses were gathered by the sea and dotted on the hillside, you can see that this area is the preserve of the rich and famous.<br />
Got to a motel tired and hungry, out largest amount of miles covered today! LA tomorrow!<br />
Miles today 80. Total miles 1,661.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGXf8eAT62quYUQLpwU_scJJxzJFfpikgAoIqB8Z0OIHxR6w1JQvH0TNNEsWYfqgVsloX7ZTA8olwLY_px6qIqp8QtwpZn3JSMaDs4sHWKEr23AHdMHdmK3Rh1dN8enMQv0cv1_7D82o/" /><br />
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Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571347862223493119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-89870607358671914862012-09-10T22:28:00.000-07:002012-09-12T22:29:16.123-07:00Day 36: The last big climb - Lompoc to Santa Barbara<div>
First pot of call for the day was, you guessed it, the bike shop - which never seem to open until 10am anywhere, so we had to wait around. The guy was really hekpful and didn't actually have any wheels to fit Dave's bike, but managed to rebuild his wheel. Rebuilding a well isn't a quick job, so we had to wait around until lunch, which is just so frustrating when all you want to do is get on the road.<br />
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Finally by about 1pm we were back on the road with a new wheel and new front tyres. From leaving Lompoc it's a gradual climb for about 15 miles. It wasn't too bad, but the road surface was just really bad so hard to pick up speed. We finally made the summit of the hill, just under 1k feet and I was so excited to think this was the last big climb, and it was actually pretty easy.<br />
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The downhill was awesome about 2.5 miles of straight down, although I realised half way down that this would also be our last big descent - so I made the most of it ha! The road took us back onto the 101, onto a really busy section through massive rock, on the northbound side there is even a tunnel. I was really glad we were heading south and still downhill. Taking a break at the rest stop,I had a cuddle by three lively dogs which helped me relax.<br />
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We were pretty much on the 101 then until Goleta, which meant we could keep the speed up and make it to Santa Barbara before sunset. <br />
Coming into Santa Barbara was awesome, we followed a bike path that took us all through the university - which looked more like a holiday complex than a uni - the how town had such a great vibe, wow such a great place! <br />
We finally arrived at our motel just after 7pm, which was pretty good going.<br />
Miles today 54. Total miles 1581.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDrvcAZEg5N6WfMufaHuPDOm-25odRJNEjIlLTDhNyms7UktIIbg0qodQUpGpgdzU6iPtFSBkpGaC9O6qKKZ6pc3kpx0H9S7jgRGFvrZdP0iXXtDtEG5r0Qbv78hgvLwWHpnA2XUTBVM/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-7214131811230330612012-09-09T22:00:00.000-07:002012-09-10T09:22:00.508-07:00Day 35: Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air - Santa Maria to Lompoc<div>
With the wheel problem on my bike continuing we decided we needed to get a new one, two popped spokes in two days= broken wheel I think and there's no way I want to be changing spokes everyday until the finish line. It's annoying to have to get a new wheel so close to the end but what can you do?<br />
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The nearest bike shop was twenty miles down the road but unfortunately it was closed on Sunday and we couldn't risk another fifty miles to Santa Barbara with such a weak wheel. We decided to just do a short day to <u>Lompoc</u> where the shop is located and get the new wheel first thing on Monday.<br />
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The short day gave us chance to hit the breakfast buffet in the hotel, all this riding has made me an eating machine so I definitely got my monies worth!<br />
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We set off into the sunshine for a short but certainly not uneventful ride.<br />
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About two miles in Holly got a flat in her front tyre, then after another two miles she got another one then after another two miles I got one! Unbelievable! All three flats were in the front tyre which neither of us had previously had a flat in for the entire trip (our succession of earlier flats had all been in the back tyre) which made it even more unbelievable. On close inspection both tires are very worn so we may have to add new tyres to tomorrow's shopping list. I have to admit changing the third tyre in the bkazing heat by the side of a busy freeway was pretty frustrating and I needed to let a strongly worded shout to release the tension.<br />
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Luckily after this we didn't get any more flats for the rest of the day.<br />
The ride progressed from the highway through some farmland and up a 900 foot climb where we got a nice view of the valley below us, then it was all downhill to Lompoc where we grabbed a motel for the night.<br />
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Miles today 20. Total miles 1527.
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-79719765056380086502012-09-08T22:08:00.000-07:002012-09-10T09:15:20.260-07:00Day 34: Some people stand in the darkness - Morro Bay State Park to Santa Maria <div>
The bike shop in San Luis didn't open until 10 so we took our time sorting out what weight we could lose. As after today there wasn't many places we wanted to camp again we decided to get rid of all our camping gea<br />
Our pot, burner and bowls were all starting to break so they headed for the bin, but we didn't know what to do with the tent and mats as it wouldn't have been worth sending them home we decided to give it all to a young family from mexico who were camping in the next spot. They only had one tent between mum, dad, grandma and granddaughter. They were really appreciative and were really lovely people, we felt happy our tent would be going to a good home. Just as we were about to head off Ron from yesterday turned up on his bike to check we were OK and had got our spoke fixed! Amazing, what a great guy! People sure are nice and friendly around here!<br />
Heading into farmland a little lighter on our way to San Luis Opisbo. With the glorious sunshine we stopped to apply sunscreen. As we were slathering the cold cream over us, a car pulled up and a guy wound down his window "I live just around the corner, do you need any help?" We all had a laugh when I said we were just creaming up. I think Morrow Bay is officially the nicest town!<br />
After about 16 miles we reached San luis. Wow what a nice place (Matt and Leah you are so lucky it's your home town!) It had such a great vibe, friendly people, lots of independent cafes and bars we wish we could have stayed longer. <u>When</u> we were finished in the bike shop we took the 227 and Price Canyon Road into Pismo beach and couldn't help singing the Baywatch theme tune out loud as we road - So Cal, we have arrived!<br />
The beach looked amazing and the houses were just so nice, if it wasn't for all the warning signs everywhere of what to do if you hear the nuclear warning signal I would be moving in! Who's bright idea was it to build a nuclear power plant on a fault line?!<br />
Stopping for lunch in the centre of town, bustling with Saturday visitors, we had a wonder round the seaside town.<br />
Following the Highway 1, now the Pacific Coast Highway was passed through Grover Beach and Ocean and up a fairly steep hill back into farm lands and terrible, terrible road surfaces. After quite a few miles I needed a bathroom break so we stopped at a garage in Guadalupe, but a guy got the key before me.... we wsited for a good 15 mins. I decided I didn't want to go in there after that amount of time so we headed onwards. Guadalupe was a bit scary, a real farm town, we actually felt like we were in Mexico, but no more bathrooms - ahh, so pushed forwards to the next town Orcutt.<br />
The first few miles there was a terribly heavy head wind, but as it cleared we started powering quite fast along the roads, not a good idea.... yes you guessed it... spoke number 3 for Dave broke - that's 2 in 2 days! Damn. Dave made it most of the way to Orcutt, but had to push the last mile. <br />
We were so tired and all we wanted was a motel, turns out there are no motels in Orcutt. An awesome old town with old styled shops and buildings but no motel, b&amp;b nothing! I was really close to tears as we just didn't know what to do. Lots of people stopped to chst and tell us what a nice town it is and how nice and helpful everyone is, but funny thing was nobody really helped us! One lady directed us to a hotel 'only half a mile down the road' (it was 4). We had to mend the spoke there and then and cycle to try and find this hotel. <br />
Finally the spoke was fixed and we were on the highway... heading north towards San Francisco - a little soul distroying. The sun had set and we were losing daylight, we finally found the hotel by the Santa Maria airport - a Radisson. I head to go in with my charity top on and pigtails and beg for a cheap room. We were so relieved they had a room spare, as there was a female pilot convention on! They gave us a special rate in the room - but was still way over budget - if only we had got Dave a new wheel when we got mine, you live and learn hey?<br />
The room was amazing, the bed even had air control to adjust the firmness of the mattress, it was the nicest bed I can remember sleeping in. I never want to leave.<br />
Miles today 61 (4 in the wrong direction - doh). Total miles 1507.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO06u0vfWEFA3v19bFTpWfCUSA9PHrsRY8k1Hq0CSacTVlWDYMxkcxGSRQcgnSMHofylUUu9stj8O9ajXVRFNSxK9pea-F-CKcpomWyJxgVgCjKMYbbydUtyd_J_KxE7gnhqj2dHpucTU/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-28869101815967686052012-09-07T21:00:00.000-07:002012-09-10T09:10:11.150-07:00Day 33: Broken spoke 4 - Time to lose some weight. Limekiln State Park to Morro Bay State Park<div>
The riding today was varied and feels like it could easily be categorised into sections, so here goes:<br />
Section number one was some pleasant small hills with some amazing views of the ocean to our left and the early morning sun cracking through the mountains to our left, as it was early there was hardly any traffic on the road so it was nice and quiet. We did however, see a vulture eating a dead skunk, just goes to show that vultures will eat anything, then again so will some people (McRib anyone?)<br />
After this came section number two, the big climb! This climb started at around sea level and rose to around 1,000 feet, it then fell and rose sharply again, even steeper than before, over the whole climb there were some nice views to be had, but it was hard work and I think we were both glad when it was time for the descent. On to section three!<br />
The third section of the ride was over some rolling hills at around sea level right next to the ocean, on this stretch we saw some <u>pelicans</u> diving into the ocean to catch fish and a colony of elephant seals on the beach, these creatures are amazing, so big but they can move really fast if they need to. We cycled past Hearst Castle which was perched high on a hillside overlooking the highway.<br />
We headed inland through section four, which took us through farmland and some small towns before we hit the ocean again.<br />
Section five took us along the ocean and into the lovely seaside town of Cayucos where stopped by the beach and ate some sandwiches in the sunshine, the weather had been great all day, really warm and sunny and we didn't even have any fog in the morning, I guess we now must be officially getting into Southern California.<br />
We chatted to a really nice couple from Morro Bay who were on a tandem bike and reassured us of how nice the campsite was (there were two in town, the beach campground was a car park for RVs, so not to be confused!)<br />
As we headed into the town of Morro just two miles from the campsite disaster struck and I broke another spoke, boo! This is the second one for me and the wheel won't be in great shape now. Just as we had stopped on the side of the road the couple we had been talking to earlier, drove passed us in the car and Ron came out to help us locate a bikeshop. So lovely of him. We managed to get to the campground but will need to get it checked over at a bike shop tomorrow. <br />
We really don't want to break any more spokes and so with only a week to go and a few cities to pass through we decided it would be easiest to lose our camping gear to lighten our loads for these last few days, so, last night in the tent tonight. Thank you tent, you have been good to us.<br />
Miles today 68. Total miles 1,446.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfN5uH2fo6T6OqcztmM7hNxDAdaqot9hj4_0nLDk9ABtMlBhXaegW4Yfv8rZbTAEnm0wfOVT2KqVXpg9RcXi9T258OGRh_YbOBn5PswXwWj-kgeuWTaYiwVWQVDAUMuZ1osjz0GArN92I/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-11909022872296710712012-09-06T22:08:00.000-07:002012-09-09T22:29:40.431-07:00Day 32: Under the bridge - Monterey to Limekiln State Park<div>
Wow what a day!<br />
Dave and I took an unscheduled rest day yesterday in Monterey as we were both exausted, Dave's knee was sore and it was forcast thunder storms. I'm not sure if it was the extra rest or the excitement of booking our onward travel but we whizzed through today, which us detailed as a difficult day in our guide book. <br />
Following back onto the 1 from Monterey the road took us up to the steep cliffs of Carmel Highlands. The houses here were amazing, huge and must cost a small fortune! <br />
The road followed the coast for most of the day towards Big Sur, where the views were amazing. There was still a lot of climbing, but compared to some of the other days the climbed seemed to be made easier as each canyon or bay had a bridge joining the roads rather than taking you right down to sea level and back up again. Some of the bridges were fantastic to look at and even more amazing to cross over on the bikes. Some you could look straight down almost beneath you. <br />
Highway 1 takes you back inland for Big Sur through more mighty redwood trees which meant it was lovely and hot again. We stopped for lunch in the Pfeiffer-Big Sur State Park and ate our lunch by the Big Sur river surrounded by naughty Blue Jays. <br />
Leading out of Big Sur is a climb of over 1k feet, i mufh earned by ice tea from the shop at the top! The descend down took us through the redwoods and red sand opening up into red ocean cliffs. The views were just breathtaking and made every second of each climb worth it - thank god there was no fog, or lightning! <br />
Stopping at a point we heard sealions barking up from below and could smell them (they stink!), the more we starred the more we could see. Lining every rock in and out of the water, there were even pools of them in the water. <br />
The road followed the rugged cliffs with connecting bridges and amazing views, we started talking to another cyclist on his way to San Diego who advised us some of the campgrounds didn't have drinking water, so we decided to end the day at Limekiln State Park. It sounds a bit strange to say its under a bridge of the highway, but it really was lovely. We managed to get a hiker biker spot right by the ocean and watched the sun set before bed. What an awesome day. <br />
Miles today 58. Total miles 1378.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-IU50-phPuAXGFo-OzaM8vjqXRckuMtm_C3pYO0yhQdZH39rV0btuw0vNCv-XeqW2a3biFIcWi3q5iDgUbVQ9z6g7A_Z5x9PCJeYbV5Gt0PIprhGc42e7b7yf5VWuhZUkGReD-0sYaA/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-89445582408103307002012-09-04T21:00:00.001-07:002012-09-04T21:00:57.940-07:00Day 31- Has the get up and go gone? Santa Cruz to Monterey <div>
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Today was hard at first, but not because of any big hills or scary moments but for some more mundane reasons, firstly it was very foggy again this morning and our journey began on the busy streets of Santa Cruz so the riding was not much fun either added to which I'd developed a pain in my knee, whinge whinge whinge, all this was leaving me feeling slightly uninspired, not to worry though, this would not last.<br />
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The ride took us from the streets if Santa Cruz, through the fruit and vegetable farms of Monterey County via a quick pit stop at La Selva State Beach where we were lucky enough to see some more great bird life. As we cycled through the farm fields (which at times smelled if the lovely sweet strawberries that were being grown in them) we saw lots if people hard at work harvesting the crops and it reminded me how lucky we were to have the opportunity to be in this trip and have some time off from working and it snapped me out if my bad mood.<br />
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There wasn't much in the way if amazing vistas in the ride today but we did have several animal sightings to keep us entertained. Outside of Moss Landing we saw a large colony of sea lions jostling for position on a jetty all piled on top of each other and jumping and playing in the water. We were also very entertained by all the ground squirrels we saw whilst riding the bike path through the grass lands leading up to Monterey. Following the Hifhway on the bike path we saw our first sign for LA, can't believe how close we are now to the end!<br />
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The day ended in Monterey along a route that took us by the beach and the clouds have lifted now. Time for some rest, big climbs tomorrow as we head for Big Sur.<br />
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Miles today 46. Total miles 1,320.</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADH7b1U19gx7JHaT5GNMNwt27OJzTUeTERO5yuPjoMiswY9rE05y1_u7j9s3TqpgbeWJCZ7AfonfREqpC0eDwshCKSUExZY5B9xkM6-XgBcF3wuEb51_VcK368PV40tpFxzwg-4BNXR8/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-68289162974606227462012-09-03T21:05:00.001-07:002012-09-15T09:38:35.970-07:00Day 30: Fall into Santa Cruz - Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz<div>
After loading up on the free breakfast from the motel we set off into the fog. The beginning of the day the road rose and fell with the dliffs, the climbs not too bad and the roads not terribly busy for labour day.<br />
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There was a long hall of no shops or running water so we made sure to load up before we set off. The road was full of day beach areas, each filled with families setting up for BBQs to celebtate the holiday.<br />
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We stopped to eat our lunch at Bean ollow State beach sticking to the north side of the beach, full of rock pools and a lot quite than the south side.<br />
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It was a hard day for us in the fact that there was so much fog, it made the ride a bit boring as you couldn't see anything. Some of the cliffs you were riding through would have been stunning, but I guess we have been lucky with views until now. <br />
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Breaking up the afternoon we stooped at an organic strawberry farm, which gave a discount to cyclists and treated ourselves to a delicious homemade strawberry short cake, yum yum yum. After leaving the farm the shoulder crossed some train tracks, I slowed down and role over the first, but I caught my front wheel in the second groove next to the track and managed to fall with my bike into the road. Luckily the road was clear and I was going really slow so I think my pride hurt more than my bottom, but got a fright none the less.<br />
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Arriving into Santa Cruz was so weird. Two seconds ago we had been on an almost deralict fog ridden rugged coast and all of a sudden we were in in a fun fueled university town with plam trees and rollercoasters.<br />
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This place was far too much fun to just roll on through, so we found a cheap motel and decided to explore the boardwalk.<br />
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Miles today 50. Total miles 1274.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvTwgVdAklpu_UtmkcRAWME_Y_vp8kncW34L-sfWD9_u0a9k_SejxjJpdGJVQWqT8rQhyyf2W5y_7DoQqVKsmi7DQbdw4HYGAaQPst-8enpfDgapEkuhB83sWcLzkzo32RsJPrhfOiOvk/" /><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFTUImExRABlgX-kVQdKiyk5oIySSuVP4rf3zsRcDUw1PTAQUpen3-BqZxwSx9pwbBfR2_qO4k_C2oEPvf5bqUun-7N9YT5R2UM9A4GxEr4A3FMK9mQY1vXbPD89upoa_OBv0qSLnTe5k/" />Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-15542993559059654972012-09-02T18:58:00.001-07:002012-09-02T19:52:12.755-07:00Day 29: Bye bye big city, hello again fog - San Francisco to Half Moon Bay<div>
We woke up ate as much if the breakfast buffet as we could and hit the road.<br />
Our hotel was located in downtown San Francisco so our first bit if riding for the day was through some busy inner city neighborhoods then up some of those famous steep San Francisco streets and into Golden Gate park.<br />
The park was both bustling and peaceful at the same time in the way that all great city parks seem to be, it reminded us of Regents and Hyde Parks in London.<br />
We rode the length of the park from east to west where we then joined up with the Pacific Ocean <u>again</u> and we rode south on the Great Highway, by this point the sun had disappeared and the famous San Francisco fog had rolled in.<br />
As we cycled along the busy highway next to beaches full of dog walkers and surfers Holly noticed an injured Seagull sat in the middle of the road (it may have been hit by a car), we stopped and managed to shepherd the bird to safety by the side of the road but its wing was broken and it could not fly, we got a passerby to call the SPCA and animal control but as it was a Sunday there was no reply, not wanting to give up another passer by took the injured bird into his car and said he would take it to an animal hospital, what a kind man, we hope this story has a happy ending and the bird recovers.<br />
We continued cycling through Daly City, where we stopped for lunch, then on through Pacifica, the fog was really thick now, probably the thickest we seen. As we left Pacifica the fog cleared briefly as we begun the steep climb over a hill known as Devil's Slide, this seems like an apt name as it was probably the most dangerous section of riding we had done so far as the road was busy and steep with ni shoulder, we made it over the top and the descent wasn't a walk in the park either, the fog was back, it was steep and busy and there were huge potholes we needed to avoid but we made it down in one piece!<br />
We ended the day in the town of Half Moon Bay, the fog was still thick and a bit chilly so we grabbed a motel room.<br />
Miles today 34. Total miles 1,224.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMYtXGKDLYkTwuehz3prexmWVeQ0SL4j4-B9tkT_JXpIFDZ1a0nyw3adS0yhDiSFryDbQPa9On8TRtbZwhGRqY_ZI8QMCOCu3Z9Ktwk8I8s8MsB86ttjQ7mm-wd9RS4_imFvAQi_ac2I/" /><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqhDjDEWEFUCvLWIahyphenhypheneKxmpOYqBzK25JtwumVvrgwv0bIVCQjr1LkeQvvA-6fLxpsW63G2AnYWaZRXEXLoBS7FjFlq7t7utw4rTxB3gjstImqMRZvSddCK1lZYSYmEQi13wXaBjw3OI/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-15202986881770512882012-08-31T21:34:00.000-07:002012-09-01T21:36:41.621-07:00Day 28: Heading for the 'frisco bay -Samuel P Taylor State Park to San Francisco<div><div>
So we woke up and all five members if our tree circle camp group decided to ride together to San Francisco which was really nice. Our peloton set off from the park riding over some very rough roads and rolling terrain with a few hills but nothing like what we have seen recently. We stopped in the town of Fairfax to get some breakfast and then it was onwards to the big city.<br />
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Had a temporary stop in Larkspur as Amanda broke a spoke, luckily due to our previous misfortunes we had the tools to help her fix it, we all pitched in and with Todd's expert guidance Amanda fixed the wheel and we were on our way again. We rode down a bike lane then into Saulisito, by now things were starting to get built up and we could see the city across the water, we climbed a hill and then there it was in front of us, the Golden Gate Bridge, by this point we had lost the others as we had stopped to take some pictures, which is a shame as they were all ending their trips in San Francisco and it would have been nice to say goodbye.<br />
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The bridge was crazy, lots of pedestrians and other cyclists but we managed to stop and enjoy the view and even saw some seals (or perhaps sea lions) playing in the water.Then we were in San Francisco. <br />
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We have been travelling for about a month now and we haven't been through a major metro area since leaving Vancouver so I must admit it was a bit of a culture shock, so many people and so much noise, I'd almost forgotten what city life was like, our hotel was downtown so we had to cycle through a park and then some busy city streets to get to the hotel.<br />
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We went out to stuff our faces with some diner food then rest day tomorrow to see the sites.<br />
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Miles today 33. Total miles 1190.</div>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqPIJGggas10ENqfVhrM3kkWbFMchZUxx85UXfSfKBkuqWgvJQUEBp3hXDoBCeLP-QTaz-Wh1KcB37EEzCmXdTPmVfqtImvfg8GHbmLqGoeI0nP5Tp_yilkrhvhZiPvjEMiVOmjZNRus/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnQeQ_ev_ux19ruEGW8GmNk1LYO4L2IRnQ_XDE-x3AGHvl0guyqcddkuf267Zt-fxSX0LAyj8FORcCg6vrs49l3470vZgdC2BukvGugEEkQ8RYMOVuCX3WzuxqHVIXk-iv653yZ1a2NA/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgthAUeHX1g48KnzB-mkGDJi5fMtTuVxmtdRVsBgOBPs71Ipga-bow65T252MSA1Y9U9lB7RwT3sYbyF0pfTybluGqV2zCX0IBS3HG0xlYIjhOWX0nug82YE6f7Jk1B6dr3rH2eF2fASg/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJ1Xaw6yZhDN8u0wrDpzQM4gdvOx9iz9Ck65fuDGiexee6-lSMxdEq1__4umIInc8nvoSKz_G9F-ehZQg84h_JG2eBp34j3f7SP0kRVLPEFvP8Gs-MhrrUTaVzb7tHLEj6JD5UiMQSS0/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJrIi3ffunPiN2jBOfCemCUVP-EZCuLtemiSCfQeecQCbnP08smnYGbU0pMJCa3RUA2b5uWzVrAk4xw0jZ29Ts_tEkm4_s46UIioawCUpZ29j4Dyh_1ZeE8fS2i1OgEUpZw-PhdYFLqBo/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQffDRfZfR7v05dvsia2HN_EUL_Qvy_uZ5_sqFsVVep72ejyyX0rFRC2gUgNCV_ZRYNH8mHMjB3Bfdbqcd7c_xjcJkXDXxlQCaBwcaFqWCvk0L9NhCukdbqVvR_eLCve_o3XITHNdyRQ/' /></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-73412053203775534132012-08-30T20:46:00.000-07:002012-09-01T21:33:21.252-07:00Day 27: The magical circles of trees - Bodega Dunes State Beach to Samuel P Taylor Park.<div>
Along the trip you run into a lot of people following the suggested days in the book and since Manchester beach we had been bumping into and sharing hiker bikers with a few groups of peooke which is really nice. Last night sharing a picnic table with two girls from Port Townsend, Amanda and Rachel who actually knew the guy we had met in Bookings!<br />
We all had a shorter day than yesterday, so took our time getting ready and headed out out around 10. The first 10 miles whizzed by, srriving in Valley Ford for some cookies and to stock up for lunch. We have both turned into eating machines!<br />
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The next few miles into Tomales following the sea inland along the bay, were a bit more trying, climbing 200 foot hills with a full on head wind and terrible road surfaces. One point coming downhill, the wind blew, my bike almost stopped it was so strong - you wonder if cars even notice when they drive along!<br />
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After Tomales was some long waited flat riding.... but nothing is that simple right? Right. The headwinds continued so strong, Dave my hero cycled I front with me tucked in behind so he'd take the brunt if it. Just like penguins.<br />
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We passed down along To males bay, which was just beautiful and Dave and I ate our sandwiches by a small secluded beach at Millerton Point.<br />
Arriving in Olema we picked up our last groceries and found the bike oath leading to the campsite which was a welcomed break from the highway and bad road surface.<br />
We hooked up with a Todd, a guy we had also met in Manchester and arrived together. The hiker biker in Samuel P Taylor is really large, but it's all on a hill so there is actually very little room for camping. Todd found some space past a falken tree and was like 'you gotta see this'<br />
It was amazing, five or did redwoos trees all in a circle with space to camp in the middle. We decided to share the space and as we were setting up Amanda and Rachel arrived too who joined us.<br />
Todd only had a small amount of food and rather him having to cycle to the next town (he had followed a different route) we all pooled our food together. It was everyone else's last night, so the girls had bought wine too! We had a feast of tuna pasta, cheese curd burritos, with crackers followed by briwnies and marshmallows.<br />
It was a great night with great people.<br />
Miles today 42. Total miles 1157.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGX0HPN6nWQ_vyWvh7ULFrSEfBl-rnj8gfuL3eYUBihwNqaOQRpl4VYICQPtnCd_WpLxBP2oOvd7ILfmKbhX_OFZE6QDE2Gu8Lozae0-LivTkgmxbWSVoCmpJ5lyJLNWV4Gg10XKtgII/" /><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhzPewB2lHVcQ8LROyx3vMLC5KMaSzo-00v0HjWiJCpCVlIRkNQC4mWq9I2tky4pZQxoZ-vXUBpzv7ogCy37I12ZQHveNRRufZDHV6QqjBOLavovvJQ8CVrY4mWz-dQ7IpdA0U45IQVEM/" /><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXWdCAjG9rv1S7K4pp2kc97iLt7UxqRr147v36hGfO-HhtNWFbf4H4YzzXFy7yQTsuFpiXHbQZjUILD8QothbLImDsJDoJPtqsfh-mzrjdzQl0s58CpZCcOWl9KALeEyykQ_YEiLcD50/" /><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirB2zy8bQDWuWs7swF7JqsdGi3r6gJ93govAEBCby1Ylh8Y3ulnatUdjOGvsadZPGtT2QrxuwXdIOLKGCSeF5fOsg0GfjQi43XQ9FLfABCbr5izFWYun04WNWK9fRJSVEJqvT2c0Ne18w/" /><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbtLjUPKZ66pqYn6k2FZ4RSIpxQCooL017ZHu8L8TYs3AcNZIHxMf2fdWq75y8XDzuN5a0gwieg9Ae55EfNH1D80qMc-5mrL7ybXCeHagwoyeAQMwPEGLxPFDzOSqzMa3gDLDVQJDTUw4/" /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-60033805268863997122012-08-29T17:38:00.000-07:002012-09-01T21:35:04.895-07:00Day 26: Switch back city - Manchester State Beach to Bodega Dunes State Beach<div>
Today was immense, I have never seen so many hills, plus we logged our highest mileage total.<br />
If you have been reading our previous posts you'll know that this trip has already been filled with hills of all different shapes and sizes but today was just crazy!<br />
We began by getting up early as we wanted to cover a fair few miles today, it was hard to tell when night had ended and day begun as the moon had been so bright last night even penetrating the thick blanket of fog that had left everything in the camp as wet as a big storm.<br />
We set out over some rolling hills making good time as we sped along in the morning sunshine, by 11-30 we had already covered quite a few miles so we stopped for an early lunch in the town of Gualala, eating at a picnic table overlooking the ocean, surrounded by hummingbirds, butterflies and seagulls, lovely.<br />
The ride then continued past sprawling community of well to do neighbourhoods called Sea Ranch, which had some interesting architecture, including an amazing chapel. You can tell many Hollywood types live around these parts, hiding out by the sea.<br />
Then came the beginning of the climbs, as the highway hugged the cliffs it would rise and fall with each cove which would result in a sharp descent then a hairpin bend then a steep descent. This layout made it impossible to gain momentum from the downhill and take it to the uphill as you lost it all in the sharp corner at the bottom.<br />
As the hills got taller, the views got even more spectacular and the heat was rising too so it was very demanding, at one point there were some vultures circling above, I think maybe they were waiting for me to keel over.<br />
We stopped to refule in Fort Ross as we new the next 10 miles were going to be even more demanding. Highway 1 at this point climbs over headlands and cattle grids, which is sectioned by a gate to close off the road if it becomes too unstable. Evebpn though the climb topped out at around 700 feet, the climbs were steep and with the deep coves leading up to the climbs gave you no run up. But when you reached the top.... wow! <br />
The fist pay off was amazing, swinging down and around the bends, surrounded by cliffs and ocean. Each climb took you to a greater view, but the last down hill was breath taking - no wonder they film so many car ads along this stretch. This down hill was just switch back after switch back, it was actually just as hard as the uphills.<br />
A quick stop in Jenner for some chocolate milk and powered in through the last 10 miles to camp. Totally exhausted, but totally exhilarated.<br />
Miles today 69. Total miles 1,116.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ41PiOEZ4UcXPoKQ5djZSDuIeYXDbPbV9o2eQXUNKTDtU3s8uPH0-TuuDI4q4r_gYGNA8NfaWGS6LiYps5jd6pda7FVQXMntow0r8PGA3RyFTa94Cv54zB4Qx_f9MZqHCzzXhbB7KMfQ/" /><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEv08LyV2t_UyWtGJ2hWnYmufftyRwo6KHdaBoYqyGHZevxvQeLDLzTSzizldaIQniAko2IMrr1FhEeuDgcKT0zFesn0M8PvKZyTm4rCNIh6LSlUmem74YblXSJfKiZ4UegsxWW5KsyPA/" /><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zwMv9vn0iWxsj0A1YAqYvvpKVdL7xXYH8Cdv6HmsEuo2rfy9_EWWq8w8R0yOfFjSz6H6UuuIzV7dWHaqWymuAncYHjzs5JRCHDGJ57-YjU7sVueJ71SEYNHWxNqKUPEcUS7VsF4HCzY/" /></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-56756754253209760022012-08-28T17:38:00.000-07:002012-09-01T21:27:18.367-07:00Day 25: Roller coastal ride - Fort Bragg to Manchester Beach state park<div>
From the advice of the bike shop in Arcata, I needed to get my new wheel checked. The bike shop opened in Fort Bragg are 9:30 but the guy was busy so we had to wait around until about 11:30, after a well needed stock up at Safeway, we didn't get going until a little before one. Oh well.<br />
We took a break at the Jughandle State reserve to fill up on fruit and sandwiches (the previous night's Denny's meal wasn't too nutritious).<br />
The whole day was up and down, and not just any ups and downs these were coastal bluff roads. Each down wizzed us around winding roads with breathtaking views. When you hit the bottom mind, you hit the bottom. It was deffinately a day of using each and every gear. <br />
Once you made it to the top and the amazing vista point, it was back down again - just like a roller coaster!<br />
After the town of Elk, where we stopped to top up our water supplies and an ice cream treat for me, we hit the steepest (apparently the steepest climb on the route). Wow not only was it steep, but there was this really strong head wind. I literally had to wait for a break in the wind to pedal as fast as I could until the next gust blew.<br />
The wind was so strong at one point it blew my front tyre off the road, but I managed to keep going. It was strange but we hadn't seen a single cyclist all day, but at the climb they all appeared. One girl was pushing her bike up, but I was determined to make it all the way. Dave was, as always waiting at the top, cheering me on along with the girl's friend. More cyclists appeared and everyone cheered at reaching the top.<br />
So we have now conquered the highest climb and the steepest, and with over 1000 miles behind us, feeling pretty damn chuffed with ourselves.<br />
The road continued like this all the way to the campsite. Manchester beach is probably the most primitive we have stayed in, with no showers or sinks and just pit loos. Its not too bad, its just really windy - we broken out our emergengy blankets tonight to make sure we stay warm.<br />
Miles today 40. Total miles 1047.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdcYxsYQq21wwb6Nqc2VhS1vaSNrLJ_VI9cXwEsipToIGg0V-Khqi27CaXlcmwcrxtCXSLZm2OPr0vlXu2v5YIsFB8D45zR9tgsfy8FhhYXTSnzxeN6Siho-x_0joPwsOIhroJsnIpnSQ/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-78748919804320846982012-08-26T21:26:00.000-07:002012-09-01T21:30:33.574-07:00Day 24: Every little helps... Richardson Grove State Park to Standish Hickey campground.<div>
We had an amazing rest day with our friends Matt and Leah who drove up from Chico and brought us food and beer! After saying goodbye we didn't get packed up until late and didn't feel so up to the 1200 foot Legget hill, so decided to take a short day just 16 miles up the road (still lots of climbing) and settled in Standish Hickey hiker biker, but we figured going a few miles was better than none.<br />
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We took a break at Confusion Hill on route, which is one of only few road side attractions left. <br />
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After a hit ride we arrived at Standish hickey. <u>It</u> was the first hiker biker we were in where we were the only ones there. The only problem was we were really limited on food as there were no grocery stores on route. <br />
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Luckily Leah and Matt left us with some bits of food, so we managed to have a very nutritious dinner of freeze dried eggs with new potatoes, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and half an apple! Ready for our big climb first thing in the morning.<br />
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Miles today 16. Total miles 961.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpT2gPfajPGycNUe5tiPmrkdEbMrvUbChp5OBNwtJebDJ3jb4v2pBgPiwXh_jHLrwP38prCLXTxGFUKEcz_WcN8UyyGazmZhxKflvTMkCn0sSGiMfE9hd7Eo6DkUZ5_c39xlDQBrGEEks/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-405294228979289532012-08-24T21:03:00.000-07:002012-08-28T09:54:40.915-07:00Day 22 Hitchin a ride- Rio Dell to Richardson Grove State Park.<div><p>So the situation was this, I had a broken spoke on the cassette side and no tools to remove the cassette, only a bike shop would be able to help and the closest one was all the way back in Eureka, a town we had passed through yesterday morning! To make matters worse we were in a schedule as we had a camping spot booked and some friends to meet in the evening who were driving all the way from Chico to see us.</p>
<p>A plan was hatched and it went like this; I removed the back wheel from the bike and left the motel bright and early, luckily there is a public bus in the Redwoods so I was able to ride that to backtrack to Eureka, it took about an hour and twenty to cover the distance we had cycled yesterday although it was a more direct route so I didn't feel too bad. I got to Eureka and got the wheel fixed by the good people at Henderson Center Cycles and also picked up the tools to remove the cassette if this happens again, damn the extra weight, I will not get caught in this situation again. Now I just needed to get back to the motel to be reunited with Holly and the rest of my bike. Problem was there was no bus until 2, and a taxi would cost 65 bucks, the guy at the bike shop suggested I hitch hike, he even made me a sign and gave me a lift to the freeway, what a nice guy. I didn't have to wait long within twenty minutes I got a ride, it was a guy who was on his way camping and said he wouldn't normally pick up a hitch hiker but he could tell that I was in a bind, I think it was the bike wheel! He also said he could tell that I didn't smell! Ha ha. Really nice dude and I'm so thankful he picked me up, helped keep us on track, I made it back to the motel before check out time, fitted the fixed wheel and we were on the road by 11, not too shabby.</p>
<p>We had over fifty miles to do to get to the campground so had to go fast.</p>
<p>Not too fast though as the early part of our day took us along the legendary Avenue of the Giants with many more magnificent redwood trees, it was hard to keep our eyes on the road, necks straining from looking up at all the huge trees. We also hit 900 miles, which we anticipate to be half way, so this was a major psychological boost for us.</p>
<p>The day involved some slow and steady climbing as we were heading into some of the higher sections of the tour, we climbed through some amazing mountainous landscapes hoping to make camp before sunset and then we headed back into another redwood forest, where our campsite was. We managed to get set up before it got dark, and then our friends Matt and Leah arrived, and they had beer! Which was just what the doctor ordered, a warm campfire and a cold beer, thanks guys! </p>
<p>Miles today 55. Total miles 945.</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisa6f1DD79QHu2y4f_3Uq-0R-AQAU8yVZ0BcWl8B5GC0qd9NqDs8eFtYKP7vl-Eq57uAv7bT5GJapBeP1aetCet1GfE_OG4JJXZsVIucLh5RA9KrkKKiov0iKcEo55wdxd04OZFKIKww/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNbKIV3KHyYztFpC-gtdE6e2tSQxTEzswEYa87ghvnRJBOf-LDawIB0hmKSrrasB0NTjBKqb7Lspq7wFwvgyK3z4RpPqCUjZ6pzcpGTEidy4ng6z1H8AQgIzvoxw3M0bVfn_scw3oeSk/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaY0tkZ6hyphenhyphenpvTYsgPuaNwkGmPcWWV8-uD9mRz0ULW19x9AVefJY_n12CO4R-33CuxNGjOMiPT4ZK-NHWAoEXFlnV1CqYLD15hn9G2xaXqt_eR5aQeVNv4M3f14_Ykf3dJBa3Pz-_UP8lY/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5eue0_DNkSVXs0cuU2zjwbXe_CQGhEW8Qd8T3ShtaT9SM5l98l_NMw7bOLTRh6kaU89BDjg82CWNHlSFX4Xs8yjEdYUEnsXxx1-9rGSfb9VOvsOi3muZGMpdVwUuPFYpiH_SEx04an6c/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_eN1k2VR2ju8exdpyEKRBiRbxBVA292wlpsf4fhjWK09e5l5s_JtSz0Mes8sH8RMG8l1qPKzYQOde3ENxVYBB2Dp2-iKmc6_NvjHYrqbl_Z34j6CtACD9aJLyJdXCmeebNaSdpz0zEQ/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyGwxHWm85QPqFug8mD9DzDBxd0nJxH96Z7kkjG-eJuw-49-1FtHfzGGKN6KBSzDgD3APNNb07areatDG9i4CIf8p23QeUAf92yes-Ba04JdQskqzRleydFM3f3o1i6YvQzkW0YdQPd7w/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppkvBfA_8MxiAc9cVD997a1uooS7r1liSogcwmNoKTbrKw8EKxEtqLhT8dmPk1z0BeE2d-EAiqYM_tyV4JcUFbADfjNiJdkxrGgod5bQbKhtjxg_HRX4R-QvKtwr0jSzLJRc2OhhKGWg/' /></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571347862223493119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-48272148536322087032012-08-23T19:00:00.000-07:002012-08-28T09:52:13.988-07:00Day 21: Broken spoke 3- not again! Arcata to Rio Dell<div><p><u>We</u> had a delicious vegetarian breakfast in Arcata at the... whilst the good people at Revolution Cycles fixed Holly's wheel, in the end though we decided to just get them to replace the back wheel as with this many breakages we couldn't be confident on the existing wheel going the full distance so seemed best to replace it ASAP.</p>
<p>From Arcata we rode through Eureka, stopping to check out some of the nice architecture that this town is famous for. From there it was back to the 101 which was now a freeway for a few miles which was a pretty joyless slog as the road was very bust and there was nit much to see.</p>
<p>As soon as we were able we left the freeway to take the scenic route, this added a few miles on to our trip but was much nicer than the busy 101.</p>
<p>We stopped for lunch at a bird sanctuary and then peddled on through the country towns of Loleta and Fernbridge before stopping to buy some peaches at a fruit stand.</p>
<p>The day continued through more beautiful relaxing farmland and into the Victorian town of Ferndale which was picture postcard pretty and we stopped and had a nice vegetarian chilli at the lost coast cafe.</p>
<p>From there our route took us back to more farmland this time with some very steep rolling hills, coming down one of these hills the unbelievable happened, I broke a spoke! Oh why oh why had we not replaced my wheel this morning when we replaced Holly's?!? The nearest bike shop was all the way back in Eureka and the day was ending so there is no way we could have made it back there in time and we couldn't replace the spoke as it was on the cassette side and we did not have the necessary tools to replace the cassette.</p>
<p>My bike was able to soldier on four more miles at a slow pace as the wheel was now seriously bending out of shape and we got to the town if Rio Dell just before it got dark and we checked into the local motel and set about hatching a plan as to how we could get the broken wheel fixed.</p>
<p>Miles today 45. Total miles 890.</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjQZWc7Qyw_aC2yt000WR6eAkuGbrLrpbWllMzA6w1mOmTPfpBFg1cdOvfmYtCcD3LHOSgklueudJUG0paOQIuhULU9JsuTn-vVGcEjo9MJnn6JQBUZqcckiKnIJO9A3b9nXjMj0RhZs/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMKE5Pe7FZOHlFLqnEui0D8X2p3MmQirhg79KeSOYQgyOhbwhX62O6YoXAmmeCozG0kovvSrA6K4HtXazwMT3wECVEq8Aydzopyt_Vpq9_cxVo3pGgcT1E7r9nYQfuCF-X0v0OCOYWdI/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Re8lxzSChPONSUjfLpf6zv4c9c6x1Zp_IgSlRqhH4PJPgs0d7mB_alTJiDrmfM3t8iFvmjbvJCbf2a0Q7dIReRWKGDv-u2zDqw99fzMBt8S41f20ejmE-2HUrXytZXTHWSDQgSsUIlc/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePS7l52JJUs32mz2-M4Z8CA6MhKkDKrNd79gX_Eq58SBqrF_RbBXFM7fjT3D9ud3YvWxB8g1bJ70701inm_G0UFVqxOSU-Cv_NyjEiqNgSh-HpHgwCEM9NQWDVIHmAdbrXA5zg7-5bSI/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJY53AdkApxHUEAKKgmSnUteBM9uXHNprMb_P8X4Nbam6-zFb25SG1WNJE6kDwyqPL5jdhKoryx2OzxlVq-FR8ucprfJW2zUOfoOg-1el21Miv2_dnI5zwNag7hyphenhyphenfD2fR_e1alCOsvpCE/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTQjq3bRFipwtg7BNlLAW_u2pyFd4a3XeI9x43dm5QvB-5CdwUhpy2iGXq2KVq5B5cdR4zBA5rXJ2AAHZ0sWEQOBjUYfLr69OGQ54-JTTvzgUcERHGrWKc8R1-K2gbsSbgej4z5YW-fs/' /></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15571347862223493119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-3420748854720984082012-08-22T09:37:00.000-07:002012-08-28T09:38:14.323-07:00Day 20: The Return of the Broken Spoke - Prairie Creek Campground to Arcata.<div>
No elk this morning unfortunately, but lots of fog. We left the campground after 10 after waiting for the fog to clear. Heading back out out onto the 101 South we hit the small town of Orik in search for some wifi (we had been in contact with some warmshowers hosts so needed to reply). There was a great cafe where the owner was real bike friendly, even allowing us to leave our bikes in the second room while we sat in, only intending on buying a coffee, we decided to take an early lunch as its not often we get to sit inside.<br />
Dave ordered a burger, while i took the unconventional lunch of strawberry and rhubarb pie with ice cream - mmmm. It was all so good. There was country music playing, my coffee cup was never empty, we could have stayed there all day.<br />
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Back on our bikes entering the Redwoods National Park, the 101 takes you through two lagoons which were really pretty. The 101 however was not, sonwe toom the side tour aroundto Patricks Point.<br />
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All the side roads have pretty rough road surfaces and can be much hillier than the highway, but they are so much more relaxing to travel along.Entering Patricks Point State Park we headed actually right down to the point leaving our bikes for a well deserved stretch of the legs. The point was stunning, but we could hear sealions barking at each other from the other side of the rock, but they were all sheltered by the fog so no pics I'm afraid.We did see one bobbing in the water but was too quick to get a pic.<br />
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There was a climb if only about 300ft but i think i got a little over excited on the eay down... And i did it again, i broke a spoke!! And yes it wss on the cassette side - argh. We were 29 miles from the next bike shop in Arcata and had no other choice but to release the break out and keep on rolling, slowly but surely. <br />
Back out into the busy highway was not a nice place to be, so using our ACA map we took a side path along clam beach drive which was so much nicer than highwy riding. But it really wasn't our day as we didnt realise part of the path was unpathed - not what you want with a fully loaded bike with a broken spoke. It was a few miles back, so we decided to roll them over the gravel. It was really hot and the bikes reslly heavy, but made it to the other side of the path. We started chatting to another cyclist called Dennis who was local and told us about which bike shops to go to in town. It was 5:40 and we wete 6 miles from town, we had to take the highway. <br />
Arriving in town about 6:15 we followed Dennis's directions, first cycle shop closed, the second wlso closed but a gut appeared and said they would squeeze us in first thing in the morning. There was nothing more we could do but find somewrhere to stay.<br />
Arcata is a really nice uni town so it was bustling with young people and great for us as we found place that sold 12 buck 18'' pizzas and 2 buck beers. With our ever increasing appetite, we managed to eat the whole thing, but i was wasted on a beer - oh dear.<br />
Miles today 44. Total miles 845.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhoKJwtrVHLjM55H_0EjCPReHpkQMqn-J9yVsQzii_DoSQYSHSU0lWwdwWIF0mpB_PHjTWI7HMvGCYx9gnAybJWe1N4FblWC_x3E8jYut5PRdimClCrIKHs2s-wb8p_2TcB5bFEB4GoE/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-91419383468969436582012-08-21T09:35:00.000-07:002012-08-28T09:36:49.444-07:00Day 19: Tall hills and big trees - Crescent City to Elk Prairie Campground<div>
Setting off from Crescent City just after 10 our next 10 miles we're uphill... And not just up a hill, up a 1100ft mountain. This is by far the highest climb we have had and also the steepest. There was no shoulder, but the majority of the traffic was really courteous and used the overtaking lane. It was freezing, but when I reached the top I was dripping from both sweat and the fog, which was do thick it was dripping from the trees too.<br />
After having a break we noticed all the amazing Redwood trees around us - they were like giants, big friendly red giants and blue sky.<br />
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There were <u>two</u> further climbs before the big downhill, which took us down into Klamath, by the trees of mystery. We were freezing do stopped at the cafe which was a real underwhelming experience, but we just needed to get warm. There were only a few other shops, all with slot machines.<br />
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After another 10 miles we reached our second climb of the day. Along the 101 we climbed for about 5 miles, slow and steady, slow indeed as there was a really strong headwind, so even though it was sunny - we were still cold. Our route took us off 101 and along the Newton B Drury Parkway through the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.<br />
This second climb took us up to just under 1k ft, reaching the top we were rewarded by the most amazing view of all the redwoods. The trees are simply stunning and huge! It was all downhill to the Elk Prairie campground, most of which I was looking up at the trees. <br />
Setting up camp in the hiker biker campsite, we are under strict instructions not to leave any trace of food and put all food products even toothpaste into a bear locker. Let's hope we only get woken up by the Elk in the campground and not any furry black bears!<br />
Miles today 34. Total miles 801.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPuQ4Hbmwi96T3HZXHhtWOjfYfJ1GWWu4IuX2j8AoR9nZWygtCIVPrSEoQfaAO6WTbmo0shSgsRndE0VLxc_LFiqgvu6MEaA4ukkxJwiTfcgCi7nsA8z9YspFkvForaIKUDiItuDnkxMU/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-11264427895815941682012-08-20T09:34:00.000-07:002012-08-28T09:35:25.947-07:00Day 18: Rest days can be like stopping half way up a hill - Brookings to Crescent City<div>
Taking our second rest day in Brookings, it felt a real accomplishment to have finished Oregon, but getting started today was really tough.<br />
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First stop was the bike shop for new chains, our first had done over 1500 miles so pretty good going, but with a large distance between bike shops we didn't want to take any chances. Not opening until 10 we didn't get going until midday by the time the guy had finished, but we got chatting to a guy from Port Townsend who had hitchhiked to the shop as his wheel was broke who was really nice so the time went by quite quick.<br />
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We don't know if it was the new chains or just being generally tired but I literally couldn't get going faster than 10mph, but finally made it to the California boarder. Oregon has been totally amazing, but we must say wear looking forward to getting warm!<br />
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Our route took us in a detour through farm land which was really nice to get off the highway with a little bit of sunshine. We stopped inGot Dick for some lunch and chatted to a couple of locals, which was funny as one guy just didn't seem to grasp we we're on push bikes and not motor bikes, which led to an interesting conversation.<br />
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After reaching Crescent City we we're both exhausted and feeling abut under the weather so we decided to call it a day and grab a room in a motel. Hopefully we'll feel better tomorrow.<br />
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Miles today 29. Total miles 767.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-UagDMUq_SoWgybnuxgYdgvBjW-W0Y6GbrUWNcldG6sj4amBu1baWFWrMuqNwf7yIPe6Gr4YpiN2jWGSuv8zafDjoUikQSLcudqaVLcQDOyzlTVVYPrgQHBPL08SUV7d0J6U1e9iSZX0/" /><br />
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-68151940935933039502012-08-19T11:45:00.006-07:002012-08-19T16:49:56.468-07:00Day 17: When the fog clears - Mount Humbug to Brookings<div><div>
We awoke this morning to what sounded like small helicopters circling above our tent, at first I thought maybe it was somebody snoring but when we emerged we saw that the sound was in fact some humming birds eating nectar from the flowers around our tent, there were also lots of little rabbits running around the site. We saw lots of birds today including Blue Jays and Vultures.<br />
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We set off into sense fog, probably the thickest we have seen so far, over some hills, past some dinosaurs (of the fiberglass variety), took a deviation along the old coast highway which reminded me a lot of an English country lane, narrow and winding and there was even a field of sheep to complete the picture.<br />
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We stopped for lunch at the town of Gold Beach, then headed off for the afternoon ride to Brookings, no Towns or shops just twenty five miles of uninterrupted coastline so we made sure to stock up on water and bars before leaving town.<br />
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Th ride started with a long climb over cape Sebastian and as soon as we descended the fog had cleared and we were treated to some spectacular coastal scenery, some of the best we have seen, I'll let the pictures do most of the talking but it really is like nothing I've seen before.<br />
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The day ended with more and more of these views and some short sharp climbs and a ride over Oregan's tallest bridge 345feet set on an iron girder holding it above the beach) before we arrived in Brookings to a nice Motel room and delicious prime rib dinner, we even ran into our Canadian friends from the campsite in the restaurant.<br />
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We are now only four miles from the Californian border so today was our last proper day riding in Oregon and what a great experience it has been, the weather has been bizarre at times but the scenery has been amazing, the wildlife sightings have been abundant and we have met some really lovely people. I would recommend that you should visit here if you get the chance.
Miles today 51. Total miles 738.</div>
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Got away from the campsite just before 10 heading into the next town Brandon on the search for some coffee to warm up. You can always be sure of finding some nice coffee on this trip!<br />
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Caffeinated up, we followed signs back to the 101, we didn't get far before I had to stop to take pictures. The rock formations in the sea are spectacular in Oregon and each bay has its own special collection. After being on the road barely a few minutes we stopped at Face Rock view point. Can you see it?<br />
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The 101 took us inland and boy do you notice a difference in temperature and there's there was this strange big yellow ball in the sky! Crossing over the county boarder into Curry County, first stop was the town of Langlois, we had been given a hot tip about the 'best hotdogs' in the Langlois Market Deli.<br />
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It sure was popular, the place was packed full of people buying hotdogs for lunch. We had to give them a try. These type of dogs are called Brats (pronounced Brots), like a Bratwurst and they served them with their special homemade mustard, which tasted a bit like apple sauce. Yum yum yum. Pretty darn good.<br />
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The next 10 miles took us back to the coast where I kept losing Dave as I couldn't stop taking pictures. We finally reached our destination of Humbug Mountain and set up camp in a really nice hiker biker site surrounded by tiny bunnies. To beat the cold we treated ourselves to a glorious raging fire.<br />
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Last riding day in Oregon tomorrow, only 50 miles stand between us and our rest day. Think we'll get an early night to make an early morning getaway.<br />
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Miles today 38.5. Total miles 687.5.</div>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAEwLbrPtl5HUVdhJ-vsq3LHBEiKyvyCcUtNwMM0gaWeFWZS86zX8YYvSiDeLoRuheAZJm1H5s-qHvZfNxX4Skx6rmYku1rFudDbYSqxLTzD_V8k6ouYEoiuYjiUoe3bAJWNHlnk66WQ/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRtwD3voTMW9HuiCSAX6KOqDUmLIgHGYM4W39xogf9dbTQhfLL_OJosm3zcru41iGLX1auBGimAR5eAl9Mj_v0655G708UP5kFXnZF0lBR9HMfETDD-7_oT4_BwjCuNwr70XVp5bf_Bo/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI40g3am-zqAZoyJ0-3nQz4Byg3Y7pdciA5i3BwY8PfyZSO9jt2qMLGslsQa2xCsPO4CnRGuIt2PzbyqbRqVwUcnIGSQiQxeIj8kPGu7KhZT8D-8dRpCPUePYVvbYSJ68G_XwdHXi1rJ8/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxODsAyixlYr-z-HjBn5Hb23KHlC9cOhSr2a9Nmqupg8XvVQK1SsSRZL0hsGlHlEsUyMWtF6r6OLt6o4q9Opakw1EMZQXP5LGbGZ5J5iayCYHpqIz6D1yTfUDTZrYqlJ4X2QeS08dzN0o/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNQzzAbmknYpKFmlepBYceljEjp2jsXmJF-xEyhxdxqHHjSv1vOA7Nhv4egos0-PTSrCc50ZTm7Zr0wJ96kn_uBoHnZtp9umDyvius0B9pHM3sglZuawfNrA2pXmp483amFWNOjcejoM4/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Jl8cOt4577M_L0a5QspP21zoFoTz1Pdq4__QLmCZDdrswL1zVBpO8_1EYNL9ZG3nJZ64tsFu6VZc6GNmOsNzYGoX46ib6leyg-Yx3px5i4ImOvawYfLmNw4_WjcSJ35aEVpt30joCF8/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9ouOAXBz47WlPfsEEt-llQeqBJgPbAyyRoUlmWDWpgqK6DfNTorXy6DrshhFyJha5pzpadGPG4P8iburFSXMamnTDE76R0MyMmpZ4wp00uFTF1ZUVqT52kR1SQethTWyA1i0ksBkwU4/' /></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208805497531207084.post-13089350510198261552012-08-16T11:42:00.000-07:002012-08-19T16:46:50.394-07:00Day 15: Keep on trucking - Reedsport to Bullards Beach State Park<div><div>
A little tough to get going this morning, I think I'll blame last night's non too healthy dinner of pizza and nachos.<br />
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We rode out of the busy town and along the 101 which was very busy lots if truck traffic and RV's led to a couple if hairy moments, at one point I had a big truck to my left and a storm drain to my right giving me about one inch of road to balance my tires on. I was glad of a brief side trip off the highway when we were able to take one.<br />
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We carried on the 101 to the town of North Bend, stopping just outside at a Veteran's memorial by the river to pay our respects and take a picture of the bridge we were about to cross.<br />
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The bridge was very busy with little shoulder and very strong sidewind and I've got to tell you when a big gust of wind hits a fully loaded touring bike it really knocks you. Luckily about half way over a trucker slowed down to hold up the traffic for us a bit, giving us a much easier second half to the crossing.<br />
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We stopped and bought a delicious packed lunch from a cute little sandwich and cookie shop in North Bend called Lori's Goodies To Go and ate down by the river.<br />
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We then hit the road again following the 101 over a few climbs to our camp for the night at Bullards Beach, we camped next to a couple of Canadian guys cycling down to Napa.<br />
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After dinner we walked some of the sandy trails surrounding the campsite and saw an owl swooping through the trees.<br />
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Miles today 49 Total miles 649<br />
<br />
Dave </div>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSOB9BfN8fbEqmpgYgie8FhJkl01MPvg6ZtZQSRXflMODJg-BAGgNvLDCvMiJ8NFyTL3dNWqOVzZakdfaBIw7Pd0K88i_4MoFiStpqlR0Of5XW8FJ0uYgpwxQIB1frlhqEC-1-WJimg4/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDW7EOX8z293z3WlTjpd5z5aLFaYNsiWOZhdGaXFjAbgDTZRgYuI4lzaIlaplT60Co7v5GifS7V7WfS-HEzjYTqM9Go59CaE8ZdAR8oVIorE3CrpKFyUWdIUP1bvK1WnvVrsewGJAXeQ/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3kqxG0PCaxBT16JggnCZxjtbH2046Ph8wwEBjas62d5E5NnctuAR5Ql4DBBZBCEkaVEgVIQ3JcFWo2xzflCHjrMa7wkyWeAFtjMvWUxJTcFXPuThu1e_07mUANo_ktSR0wH6pTA8f9Gc/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDMbXVLJ5fiRNgE3Ka2GcTuL5fINosjgFQdzzwm-7aSqbrrqhOSBSdve2JI-54S2CCnnE1A2wc5qk3HuF46wUDfLeUBU6MP1GvEkgkkyW7nX1mDcbMEQYRLq5uOLFUsoasPg6wRcPwh1A/' /></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733407771703900538noreply@blogger.com0