We left Rangely CO and immediately began a long gradual climb on good roads. The scenery has changed from majestic mountains to dry desolate scrub. After turning off of US 40 at mile 30, we endured almost 20 miles of the worst pavement of the tour (so far). By this time we had crossed the state line into Utah. Fortunately there was absolutely no traffic on this road, so we were free to thread our way around potholes and broken pavement. At least two riders suffered flat tires on this section.
The right turn onto SR 45 was a welcome relief, as this highway was smooth with a good shoulder and light traffic. However, it did bring on a couple of long climbs before reaching our destination of Vernal UT, home of a Utah State Natural History Museum. We had lunch across from the museum and took advantage of the tour through the museum.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a really demanding day of 118 miles through the Flaming Gorge, so some more climbing. We were told this was a mountainous tour and it is proving to be that.
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| Climbing a moderate grade shortly after leaving Rangely CO |
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| Dry and desolate landscape |
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| A better part of the really rough road (Bonanza Rd) in Utah |
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| There is just nothing out here except brush and a few oil tanks |
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| Utah's version of badlands |
The scenery certainly changed Expected to see sage brush go rolling across the monitor at any moment.
ReplyDeleteTake care [ know that is a frequent comment from across the street ]- know that we all are thinking of both of y'all.
Peggy
- across the street -