Saturday morning I took off by bike with my crew, headed for Salida. Chet and Kelsi left in the rental mini-van to head to Salida as well — but on Kora’s schedule. Cami hung out with the Adventure Cycling leaders, getting set up to borrow a bike and ride the last portion of the day’s route into Salida with me.
Cami and Denny drove past us on our bike route and waited at about 10,000ft about 13 miles outside Salida, so that when we arrived at this spot Cami could join us for the final descent into town. If you look closely at this photo you can see some of the collegiate peaks in the background.
It was a hard 40 miles of climbing to the rendezvous point. Eric and I arrived together.
The descent on gravel was challenging as well. After about 5 minutes of the downhill Cami said, “Taylor, if the whole thing is like this all the way into Salida…this isn’t really fun.” Braking nearly the whole way, on gravel, through some shortlived rain, and significant wind - Cami got a taste of the Great Divide with us!
The leaders made sure she had the reflector on and thanks to Denny’s idea and generosity Cami enjoyed a safe and memorable ride down. She encouraged, “Make sure to stop and look around and take pictures!”
Made it to Salida and the Woodland Motel! Our 2 bedroom worked out great for us and the kids.
We arrived Saturday afternoon, walked around a bit down by the riverside and through the park. It’s a great place for people watching as there are people tubing, kayaking, floating and even surfing in various spots.
Kora loved the park!
Later we got dinner at the Sherpa Cafe and used the motel hot tub! No biking for me tomorrow!