Walden, CO - Kremmling, CO

This morning I met an English fellow named Richard at the mini-mart.  After a chat, it turned out that we were both headed to Kremmling.  With Google Maps, I had earlier researched a route that would have been shorter (58 instead of 78 miles) and less wind-prone.  With hubris, I informed Richard that his route was poor and mine was better.  Never mind that Google Maps has led me astray several times now.  He was already committed to his route so we parted ways and said that we'd see each other in Kremmling.

Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately -- who knows what misfortune I avoided), I missed my turn and ended up on the same route as Richard and his current riding companion Brian.  I didn't figure this out until 12 miles down the road.  At that point, I couldn't turn back.  The day just isn't long enough.  Cursing myself, I pedaled onwards.

It turned out to be incredibly scenic with minimal traffic.  The aspens are a brilliant gold now, and the road up the pass was smooth as it wound through the forest.  Richard was obsessed with seeing a moose.  The steady 25mph wind was mostly a crosswind so it wasn't so bothersome.  Later we had to turn west on US 40, which was much busier and headed straight into the wind.  That part wasn't as fun.

Tomorrow the weather is supposed to be cold and windy and perhaps rainy.  It's 68 miles and includes Vail Pass at 10,662 feet.  I doubt anything could bother me, as I will be happy to sleep in my own bed.



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Pretty sure the horse is responsible for this sign

Entering scenic Rand, Colorado

Must be an Okie from Muskogee

Brian and Richard, my riding companions today

Pedaling up Willow Creek Pass

...and coming down

Different steeds