Day started with a 6.7 mile uphill with the most glorious views. I hope I remember them forever. Climbed out of the tri-cities valley, and then did a 11.7 mile drop to the Columbia River.
Rolling hills and wheat fields as far as the eye can see. And houses being built on the highest peaks. Except for 3 miles on road-repair gravel it was a really smooth paved road. Breathtaking.
At the Umatilla River campground, where I stopped to confirm directions, the office manager said that 2 campers from Vermont had checked out this morning.
Over the Columbia on Route 395. Big trucks; 70 MPH; 18 inch bike lane. I made it.
At a restaurant in Hermiston, OR, was very warmly received by the owner couple, and the wife's mother and daughter. They spent a lot of time researching routes over the Blue Mountains for me, and shared their phone numbers and e-mail addresses to keep in touch. Great people.
Based on their suggestion I did the Reith Road to Pendelton. 24 miles of total remoteness; passed perhaps 6 vehicles. Great rock outcroppings; rolling wheat fields as far as I can see; along the Umatilla River. My phone camera was not working - missed some great shots. Very hot - sapping my energy.
Pendleton is a "real" cowboy town. Lots of cowboy boots; saddle and western- wear shops; saloons; great restaurants downtown.
Very anxious about tomorrow. Pendleton to La Grande; locals say it is tougher than crossing the Rockies. In some places it is 10 miles at a 7+ % grade.
Gear down and bring on the tortoise !!
What a day of variety - ups and downs, very high desert; river valley; cross Columbia (while praying!). Whew !!!
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