My legs were tired at the beginning of the day and we had a 57 mile day that included a big climb.
This is the profile from ride with gps
I have learned that it takes me at least 10 miles to feel warmed up, but that did not do it today. In addition, I had on leg warmers and my legs were so tight that the elastic holding them up seemed to dig into my feeble muscles with each turn of the pedals. I was anxious for the day to warm up enough to take them off!
The wind was a factor today, but nothing like yesterday. It made things a little harder, but that was all. We had to pedal on the downhills and the bike was moved by the wind, but it was not terrifying like it was yesterday. Most importantly, I could enjoy my surroundings again. And what beautiful surroundings!
Gone was the high desert. Now the landscape is green and beautiful in a totally different way from where we have been!
A few miles into our ride.
At the top of the climb. The jacket will go on for the descent. However, it took a lot of work to get down!
We are not in the desert anymore
The aspen are beginning to show their fall colors.
And the field trip? Patrica, who was on last years ride, but isn't doing this year's, came all the way from Denver to take a group of us to Rocky Mountain National Park to (hopefully) see an elk rut.
He was very actively controlling his harem. Another young bull did not make any progress in getting into this group of cows.
This was not an easy day, but it is the kind of day you hope for when coming on one of these trips. Challenging cycling, beautiful scenery and something special thrown into the mix!