Dressed to go for breakfast to determine if the rain would last for a 1/2 hour or hour. Very dark clouds. Weather prediction is 3 days of rain !!
Oh well - so wrapped gear in plastic. Put on a riding shirt w/ rain coat and headed out. In a 1/4 mile I was freezing. Low 50's and pouring. Put on another layer - called home for a little sympathy (Not !!) and headed UP.
Rode the Iron Horse Trail, up hill with no breaks, in the rain, for 36 miles. The rain just started to abate as I reached the 2 mile long train tunnel.
Chili and a cup of coffee at the Saloon was a life-saver !
The bad news - I was on gravel.
The good news - in a groove, slow and steady, no need for braking or gear changes with mud and twig-packed components.
Some great views, an enjoyable ride, and not a bad day after all. Sun broke thru as I headed into Cle Elum.
A long day since the Iron Horse downhill to Cle Elum was really rough going - same MPH as going up !!
Not too many photos. Fingers were cold and numb, as were feet, so not inclined to stop.
Great conversation with Forest Service Ranger at the restaurant bar - will be riding much of the day tomorrow along the Yakima River canyon. West wind predicted - yea !
The water picture is Lake Keechelus on the west side of Cascades; tunnel is 2 miles unlit; had to get out the headlamp - eerie.
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