Another earlier start to the morning, but this time it was in search of breakfast. People in the town pointed us to a mini-mart and sure enough the breakfast there was homemade and fresh. Today was another long day and a hot one. The temperatures kept on rising until it was over 100 degrees. In Dayville we stopped for ice cream and lunch. The lunch, my standard BLT was delicious. The ice cream was even better. It must be Tillamook.
As soon as we left Dayville we encountered road construction. It was another tar and chip operation and traffic was blocked in one direction. We were fortunate enough to get an escort through the construction zone but unfortunately it was in the gorge, the most beautiful part of the day’s ride. While riding with the escort traffic was blocked in both directions so we could safely pass. This also meant that once we got through the construction zone the traffic coming from behind would be batched together. A dream for a long uphill.
Once through it was a long and hot climb. There were a few times when I overheated. This mammal does not do well in hot temperatures. Also, the water I had left was warm and the supplies diminishing. After making it to the top of Keyes Creek Summit. It was a 7 mile downhill to Mitchell. Tonight we were staying at the Spoken Hostel. A great oasis in the middle of eastern Oregon. In addition the host, Jalet, has to be one of the friendliest people around. It is she that makes this place so special to many cyclists and travelers.
Today’s stats: total mileage 83 miles, average speed 12.9 mph, elevation climb 2428 feet, elevation loss 2974 feet, maximum speed 34.5 mph