We’d picked out a stellar 54 mile bike ride on one of Americas Scenic Byways and even though the climb was a little over the top (4,600) at this elevation, the route is paved and there would be lots of cool scenery to distract us from our misery. 😂
There were some righteous downhills at 14% but since it was an out and back we knew whatever we road down we had to climb back up. 😂
It all started out great until the storm front (again, not forecasted) moved in.
We pressed on thinking we’d skirt around it, however a little after the half way point a wicked canyon wind kicked up, more clouds moved in and we decided it best to turn around. 😏
Strong one directional sustained winds are one thing but strong winds that circulate are more difficult to handle on a bike, in the rain especially when zipping down canyon roads at 25 miles an hour with no guard rail. And oh yea it was Sunday which meant we were sharing the road with mucho RVs broke camp this morning.
Not to be robbed of seeing the scenery we wanted to see, when we got back to our car we drove the route (in the rain) and finished an audio book. Soooo there ya go. Life is seldom what you expect but it IS what you make it.
Tonight is our fourth and last night at Ranchito Feliz, a Hipcamp where Roy is our host. Roy owns nine acres in Cannonville, UT (just outside Bryce Canyon). He was one of the first to jump on board the Hipcamp idea and is among one of their top hosts.
The way Hipcamp came to be is fascinating. For a quick story click here but if you don’t have time to read it just know that needs drive business and this female founder rocked it.
The best part of this Hipcamp stay, however was Roy, a San Diego native, and former marine who knows more about the natural history of the area, the customs and people than I have space to share here. Besides his stories are his to share and only he can tell them the best. Sooo if you’re ever in Southern Utah and have a mind to camp, look up Roy at the Ranchito Feliz.
Click on the image below to view more pics and vids:
Keep Calm and Pedal On 