A shorter ride today, just over 30 miles. Tonight I’m camping along the Columbia River about 3 miles south of I-90. I took a little time to see the Gingko Petrified Forest on the way.
Traveling to Minnesota - by bicycle. What a crazy idea! But that’s the plan. I’ll post brief updates of my progress here. Many people have asked for regular updates, and not all are on social media, so I chose Blogger as a place anyone with a browser can access. I’m not planning on wordy updates - you might only get my final destination and mileage, and then only if I have cell coverage, which won’t be always. You can follow my daily rides on Strava, and I’ll post occasional photos on Instagram. My main trip diary is going to be analog, though. Yup, pen and paper. You don’t need internet access, or even power. Amazing technology, that! This is a ride I’ve dreamed about for decades. I now have the time and health to do it (I think). But if I have to bail I won’t hesitate (I think). Prayers for safety are appreciated. Departure date is June 8, aiming to be 2000 miles away 35 days later, in time for a family reunion July 17. Then I and my bike will ride the train back home. Wish me luck!
Today I arrived at my destination, my dad’s retirement home in Roseville, MN! I got an early start, spent a half hour visiting the property where my childhood home used to be (the home is gone now, and the property belongs to the city of Champlin), and rolled into Roseville around 1:30. There were a lot of trails today, which is GREAT, except that they were a bit bumpy and they caused my rear rack to loosen and eventually interfere with the wheel. So I had to spend some time taking all the bags off and tightening screws. But I arrived! No flat tires over 1990 miles, which is amazing. I lost 12 pounds and am now officially scrawny, weighing less than I did at age 22 (138, if you must know). This has been the trip of a lifetime, and it may take some time to process. Thanks to everyone who has been covering me with their prayers, thanks to Gretchen for letting me do this crazy notion. And thanks to everyone who has followed along and offered support.
Date of Departure: Wednesday, June 8. Planning to bike over Snoqualmie Pass on the Palouse To Cascades State Park Trail (a.k.a. the John Wayne Pioneer Trail) and camp somewhere near Keechelus Lake, about 75 miles.
Looking forward to seeing pictures and hearing about your trip!
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