Date: August 16, 2005
Route: La Crosse to Prairie du Chien
Distance: 70 miles
Ride Time: 4h 45m
Elevation Climbed: 2200’
Weather: 60s to 80s
Log
The day started early with a short ride to Perkins for breakfast … oatmeal, as usual, for me. On the way out of town several of us took a side trip to see the king of beer and the largest six pack in the world at the City Brewery. Cindy, a rider from Boston , travels with her daughters: Flat Jennifer and Flat Carolyn. She takes them out of her bike bag at each photo op so they can have a little fun with us. If you look closely, you can see them in this picture.
Today was a day on the flood plain. The gentle rollers kept the route interesting and the ever-changing Mississippi made it beautiful. The first 15 miles were in swirling fog with spots of sun. We were told of a remarkable viewpoint that would entail a side trip with a climb. Cindy was riding a little ahead of me. I noticed her on the left of the road at the entrance to this scenic overlook inviting me to join her. I hadn’t planned to take this diversion but I thought, ”Why not? It’s a relatively short, easy day and it’s early and cool.” It turned out to be a relentless half-mile climb of 14%. I have never climbed a harder hill. I used my lowest gear and crept up at an agonizing 3mph. I didn’t know I could go that slowly and not tip over. This rock is called Grandad’s Bluff and at 790’, the tallest peak for miles around. You can see Iowa and Minnesota from the view-point. It was worth the pain.
We continued to follow the Mississippi , past locks, little towns, and the Upper Mississippi Wildlife Refuge. I saw egrets, Great Blue Heron, Canadian Geese, and large flocks of white pelicans. I stopped at a little store and enjoyed a snack in the sun on the back deck overlooking the river, parking my bicycle with the other vehicles.
I arrived at the hotel at 1:30PM and had time to take a little nap.
Another great day on the bike!
