Route from Hacienda RV Park in Las Cruces NM to Mission RV Park in El Paso TX
Today’s route was 63.55 miles and averaged 13.7 mph. There were lots of winds and depending on the direction they were either head, cross or tail winds. Overall it was an awesome day for riding – not too much elevation gain or loss and decent temperatures of the mid 80’s. I didn’t get on the road this morning until 9 – felt good to have a more leisurely start time.
Best Moment – Around noon at Starbucks, I met another eastbound group of cyclists. It is awesome to think about the instant comradeship that forms instantly with cyclists on this kind of trek.
Worst Moment – The city traffic through El Paso was quite a challenge. For some reason not many of the streets throughout the city have bike lanes ☹.
What a historic area this is. The building that displayed this sign is where Billy the Kid was tried, this is where the Gadsen Purchase was signed. La Mesilla has a wonderful historic town square.
The trail went through an incredibly rich agricultural area sporting pecan groves and vineyards. Unfortunately all three wineries were closed for tasting today. Should have been here one day later.
Somewhere I crossed into The Lone Star state, but the border wasn’t marked at all – probably because of the real back roads that I’m traveling. So not only did I get into a new state, but also am on the first new trail map of trip.
Listened for traffic, the birds, and the sounds of the road.
One of my followers said she couldn't find my link to Livestrong. In case you are also looking for it, here it is http://grassroots2011.livestrong.org/billsbigride197
Hi Bill,
ReplyDeleteDay 6.... I can't take it in!! Unbelievable how many miles you've covered in the first week. I was thinking about what you said about the fragrant pine forests.. that must have been lovely. It reminded me of how Rob used to mention that when he was training for marathons, or running his marathons, his senses would become very acute, especially his sense of smell. I guess it must have something to do with the exertion. Thanks for posting all the great comments; we feel like we're almost there with you. I love the best/worst moments, the photos and hearing about what books you are listening to. Sounds like you, Neita, Ron and Duncan are meeting some interesting people along the way. It's also very neat that you are experiencing that instant cameraderie that people feel when they meet others engaged in the same endeavour (Canadian spelling!). You have that instant understanding that comes from the shared experience. Keep up the great work and thanks for all the great journalling!
Jodi