You Take My Breath Away!!!

Was it the intense climbing or was it the beautiful scenery that left me breathless for most of the day? Maybe a bit of both. It was a balming 75-80 degrees, fairly good pavement, no shoulders, but very little traffic. One view was lovelier than the next. I didn’t think anything could beat Emry Pass for beauty and excitement, but Texas did it! Today we climbed almost 3,000 feet in Texas hill country to the tiny town of Vanderpool. Although much of the 40 mile day was uphill, we knew we had three major climbs; the first being 4-5 miles long and the next two maybe 2-3 miles long. This sign was an indicator to us that we better put the pedal to the metal and do some serious biking!
This picture doesn’t truly depict our climbs, but you can see the biker in front of me is headed around a curve. Every curve I went around I was sure I would be at the top…but alas, more climbing before I could reach the top.

Ahhhh…a downhill begins. Sharp grades and curvy roads called for the rear brakes being on at all times and “feathering” the front brakes. The downhill was so spectacular that I tried to keep my speed at about 15mph so I could sneak glances as I flew by. Pam, who loves hills, reports she was going 42 mph!

We are truly into a lush area; dark greens, light greens, trees and bushes everywhere. I believe it was a unanimous decision by the group that today was the most scenic and beautiful ride thus far (and one of the hardest days).

Not a cloud in the sky, and no place I'd rather be than riding my bike across the USA! That being said, there is still no place like home!

This is a picture I took trying to show how high we were at one point…..but it didn’t work – so just enjoy the beauty it holds. If you ever get a hankering to visits SW Texas, you must take State Road 337 from Camp Wood to Vanderpool – put it on your bucket list! It must be a favorite of motorcyclists as many of them passed us. By the way, all drivers have been very considerate of us and when possible give us lots of room as they go by.

After a most rewarding day, I claim my digs for the night. We are staying at Fox Fire Cabins – a remote area with cabins for 2-3 people. It is very quiet here, no tv, no telephones, and no internet. Although I don’t like being without those “necessities” for too long, it is a welcome change.

The ole swimming hole at Fox Fire Cabins. The water is clear as can be and fairly warm. One of our gals just had to swim in the buff….and no, Van, it wasn’t me!

Before retiring for the night, we did a little star gazing and moon watching. There is a lovely cool breeze, the crickets or some bug is chirping away, and I’m just replaying in my mind the tapes of a most glorious day.

My cabin mates are already asleep so I guess I, too, should retire. Tomorrow is another day and I can’t wait to see what God has in store for me (& you!). Happy Trails to you....until we meet again.