Jordan bikes to Arizona - Day 5

After a few ice baths and hot tub rotations, Jordan received a restful night’s sleep. I awoke at 6:30 AM with a pessimistic outlook due to the heavy rain and the low temperature of 43 degrees. Given the inclement weather, I began organizing the gear while Jordan slept. Additionally, the hotel provided a laundry room for guests, allowing me to wash our clothes.

At 8:30 AM, Jordan awoke, and we discussed the day’s plan. Although his knee still felt slightly sore, it was improving. He would ride around the parking lot a few times to assess his ability to continue the ride. Subject to his decision, we planned the day while having breakfast. We would depart Durango and head towards the Four Corners monument. Google Maps indicated that this was approximately 90 miles, with a few minor mountain climbs. (Please note that these were minor to Jordan, but they would be challenging for me.)

As Highway 160 west of Durango was a busy four-lane road with debris-filled shoulders, Jordan offered to provide a safe ride about five miles out of town to Highway 141. At 11:30 AM, he commenced the ride at Wildcat Canyon. The ride began with an uphill climb into the wind.

The road was safe, and Jordan was able to ride 12 miles before we turned onto Highway 140. However, the highway was heavily traveled, and many trucks posed a challenge due to their limited space on the shoulder. Trucks are typically dangerous without the wind. The wind, combined with the swirl created by a car traveling at 65 MPH within 3-5 feet of you, is sufficient to cause you to lose control of your bike. Consequently, we opted to load the bike onto the truck and have Jordan ride that 4-mile stretch.

We proceeded approximately 3.5 miles; however, the road conditions deteriorated as we ventured further. The car was covered in clay, rendering the tires slippery and ineffective. I was concerned as we were in a remote area with no phone service, resulting in a significant delay for the day. Even a fat tire bike would have been unable to navigate this terrain. As evidenced below, the decision to turn around was made for us, and we are grateful for our choice. Google Maps’ bike directions proved unreliable.  

Upon finally escaping the arduous clay road, we meticulously assessed the extent of the damage. Without a car wash, we had no choice but to return to Durango. Upon our arrival, the process of removing the clay from our vehicle and bicycle consumed approximately 30 minutes. The aftermath was quite disheveled. Fortunately, the situation concluded favorably, avoiding the potential predicament of being stranded in the middle of nowhere amidst the clay.

Jordan cycled for eight miles when the road transitioned from gravel to clay. The road had recently rained, resulting in a wet surface. Consequently, we decided to load the bicycle and drive the remaining distance, although we were uncertain about the location of the pavement. Google had recommended this route as the “Recommended Route.”
It is important to note that we are following a Google-mapped bicycle route. Due to the limited planning time, we entrusted Google with our decision. However, we will soon realize that this was a significant error.

 

Following the completion of the car and bicycle cleaning, Jordan expressed a desire to embark on a journey along the renowned Million Dollar Highway for the entire day. As previously mentioned, the Million Dollar Highway comprises a series of mountain passes characterized by a base elevation of 5,600 feet in Montrose and 6,500 feet in Durango. The majestic Sultan Mountain, Kendall Mountain, and Storm Peak encircle the region.

The highway features three prominent peaks: Coal Bank Pass, Molas Pass, and Red Mountain Pass. Each pass stands at an elevation of approximately 10,640 feet, 10,970 feet, and 11,018 feet, respectively. Notably, there is a significant drop of roughly 2,000 feet between each pass. Given the challenging nature of the terrain, particularly after traversing over 200 miles and navigating several major passes in recent days, this journey presents a formidable challenge. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the same road experienced a minor blizzard the preceding day.

 Upon concluding our day’s adventure, we endeavored to rectify the missed experiences of the previous day due to inclement weather. Despite the relatively short distance of 67 miles, the day was characterized by four arduous ascents. While descending proved to be a more manageable task, it was undeniably perilous. The accompanying video, albeit somewhat lengthy, provides a visual representation of the descent. The scenic beauty of the route is evident, but it is crucial to maintain constant attention to the road to avoid potential hazards such as rocks. Notably, the descent was achieved at speeds exceeding 40 mph.

 He hit speeds over 40 MPH on this descent.

Here is the video leaving Ouray.

Upon completing our journey, we were still debating whether to camp or explore available hotel rates. We discovered a four-star hotel in Telluride, a name that resonated with me. The hotel was priced at $90, which appeared to be an exceptional bargain. However, upon arrival, we were informed that it was an error (the hotel’s usual off-season rate is double that amount). Nevertheless, Jordan presented the hotel’s phone number, and they honored the discounted rate.

This establishment is exceptionally luxurious, as evidenced by its website.

Below are some photographs I captured today. These images were taken directly from the camera without any editing.

Segment 1:  Out of Durango 11:30 AM (926 feet of climb)

Segment 2:  Out of Durango again! 3:32 PM (7,058 Feet of Climb)

OVERALL SUMMARY (Day/Overall)

• Miles - 67.01  /  294.64
• Elevation  - 7,984 feet / 19,034 feet
• Riding Time (H:M:S) - 5:23:59 / 21:25:54

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

Jordan bikes to Arizona - Day 4

Today marks the Sabbath, a day often referred to as the “Holy Day of rest and remembrance.” However, this day was far from a restful period for Jordan, who was determined to complete as many miles as possible within the seven-day timeframe. The initial 175 miles presented three significant challenges. In my opinion, running a marathon would be a more challenging endeavor compared to navigating one of these obstacles. Additionally, today coincides with Mother’s Day, which may have resulted in increased traffic as individuals spend time with their mothers.

Sleep was relatively uneventful, although the temperature dropped significantly. I estimate that the lowest temperature reached approximately 35 degrees Fahrenheit. I awoke at 5:00 AM and discovered that the interior of the car windows was covered in water. My pillow also bore the brunt of the dampness. I opted to sleep in the passenger seat while the individual requiring the most rest occupied the back seat of the Subaru Outback. I maintained a quiet demeanor to ensure that Jordan could obtain the necessary rest and recovery.

At 7:30 AM, Jordan awoke, and we commenced our journey. He appeared somewhat fatigued. He was able to begin the drive shortly after 9:00 AM, while I completed the preparations for the day, including searching for the keys I had misplaced the previous night. I meticulously inspected every inch of the ground, but unfortunately, I was unsuccessful in locating the keys. This situation elicited a sense of guilt and self-doubt. While it may not serve as an excuse, Jordan is experiencing physical exhaustion, and I am already feeling emotionally strained.

The hotel

Light rain starts - 9:18 AM

The commencement of the day’s cycling journey presented a slight uphill ascent, accompanied by minimal wind. The narrow road, despite low traffic, ensured a safe and secure ride. The initial 14 miles proved challenging for Jordan. Before reaching McClure Pass, he paused to allow me to stretch him, as he exhibited significant tightness. He expressed that the ride had been arduous, evident in his exertion.

McClure Pass presents an 8 percent grade for three consecutive miles. Following three substantial climbs, this fourth ascent would demand the utmost effort and determination from Jordan. This marked the first instance I observed him exerting significant effort during the climb. As fatigue sets in, accidents become a potential risk.

Despite his exhaustion, he successfully reached the summit without pausing for rest. He was prepared to descend into the valley.

Happy man!

As previously mentioned, the descent follows the climbs. These descents are often more challenging due to the need to balance speed with constant braking. Over time, the hands become so sore that they can cramp. However, the upcoming weather conditions will make this descent even more difficult. He encountered a headwind and had to pedal to maintain speed, as the wind would otherwise slow him down. Additionally, the road was narrow and I consider it unsafe.

Despite these challenges, he continued to work hard and arrived in Hotchkiss, Colorado, at noon. This accomplishment resulted in over 50 miles being traveled in under 3.5 hours. It is essential to note that this time included arduous climbs, strong winds, and numerous stops. The total time was significant and took a toll on him. He was a man who faced numerous challenges from the weather.

Upon leaving Hotchkiss, the road was clearly hazardous. Therefore, we loaded the bike to find a suitable starting point. He was not pleased with this decision, as he felt it was “cheating.” However, I believe it was a wise choice. This was a portion of the road that is only suitable for those who are suicidal. Jordan did point out some unusual artwork along the way.

Jordan continued his journey, but the conditions deteriorated rapidly. He experienced unexplained knee pain, compounded by the challenging road conditions, fatigue, and inclement weather. Consequently, we decided to drive to Durango, Colorado, where we would secure accommodations and provide him with rest and care, primarily addressing the overuse injury to his knee. (Refer to the accompanying video for visual evidence of the severe weather conditions, including snow.)

Upon our arrival at the hotel, we commenced the process of unpacking and providing him with the necessary care. Throughout the night, he underwent alternating treatments of ice baths and heat therapy. He was contemplating a potential change in our plans. The daily journey of over 130 miles to reach California appeared daunting, especially without the prospect of long-term complications.

We mutually agreed to adopt a flexible approach, prioritizing day-by-day progress without any rigid requirements. We would drive as necessary to maximize our enjoyment of the scenic routes.

On Friday, we will ensure our proximity to Silverton, Colorado, for a series of climbs to Montrose.

The renowned Million Dollar Highway will serve as our route. This pass boasts a base elevation of 5,600 feet in Montrose and 6,500 feet in Durango. Surrounding the pass are the majestic Sultan Mountain, Kendall Mountain, and Storm Peak.

The Million Dollar Highway comprises three significant passes: Coal Bank Pass at 10,640 feet, Molas Pass at 10,970 feet, and Red Mountain Pass at 11,018 feet.

Furthermore, he proposed coordinating the journey to the Four Corners region, where Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona converge. I will examine the route necessary to reach the Four Corners from Durango.

UPDATE: This was already included in the planned route. This will eliminate the slim possibility of reaching California, but at least the ride will not be unpleasant and arduous.

Segment 1 - 9:18 AM start

Segment 2 - 2:54 PM start

After 1.27 miles, 5:16, and 6 feet of climb, his knee hurt.  We decided it is best to seek ice, a knee wrap, and rest for the day.

OVERALL SUMMARY (Day/Overall)

• Miles - 52.57  / 227.63
• Elevation  - 3.343 feet / 21.050 feet
• Riding Time (H:M:S) - 3:34:57 /16:01:55

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

Jordan bikes to Arizona - Day 3

TODAY WAS HARD ON JORDAN!

Today’s weather conditions were unpredictable, causing a range of emotions. Despite low expectations after yesterday’s variable weather, I awoke at 5:30 AM and began packing for our extended journey. By 8:15 AM, Jordan was awake, and we prepared breakfast while finalizing our packing. Packing was paramount today, as we would not return until after our ride.

We departed Golden just before 9:45 AM, heading to Copper Mountain, Colorado. It was there that Jordan wisely abandoned the ride yesterday due to adverse weather conditions, including thunder, lightning, sleet, hail, and ultimately, snow. We had hoped to cover an additional 20 miles that day.

Today, we anticipate weather challenges. Besides the low temperatures, thick fog accompanied by occasional sleet made travel by automobile, let alone by bicycle, arduous. I had never encountered these two elements simultaneously.

Upon arriving at Copper Mountain, Jordan prepared for the ride. However, the heavy winds and near-freezing temperatures raised doubts. At approximately 11:00 AM, he mounted his bicycle and discovered that the sleet was pelting him with such force that it was painful. The prospect of venturing out was abandoned, particularly as we realized that the trail he was scheduled to ride was covered in snow. We later learned that the path near the ski resorts was not plowed, as it provided an excellent opportunity for cross-country skiing. Consequently, we loaded our belongings into the car and drove five miles up I-70, where the trail was cleared and the weather was more tolerable. It is astonishing how rapidly mountain weather can change within a few miles.

Jordan commenced his day on the Ten Mile Canyon National Regional Trail, located just off exit 180 on I-70. The wind was approximately 15 MPH, and it was a headwind. The trail offered a pleasant, easy, and slightly downhill ride (approximately a 1,000-foot drop over 17 miles) to Vail. I intended to take Interstate 70 and planned to arrive in Vail before Jordan.

Upon arrival, I was unable to locate him. Upon reaching him via phone, he informed me that he was averaging 17 MPH and had already departed the trail. Regrettably, I missed him and had to catch up.

We encountered each other approximately west of Vail, where the rain began to fall. The freezing rain, accompanied by strong driving winds, severely impaired visibility, and the cold penetrated deeply into our bones. Despite my hopes that he would cease his journey, he persisted in riding.

The rain subsided just before noon when he arrived in Edwards, Colorado. Edwards is a small town situated along Interstate 70 and adjacent to Beaver Creek Resort. Jordan informed me that he was required to perform some work on a Saturday, making it an ideal location for lunch. We were in proximity to a Starbucks, so we engaged in a quick process of elimination, ultimately selecting it as our lunch spot due to the availability of Wi-Fi.

Jordan worked for over an hour, while I diligently monitored the weather conditions. When it became apparent that we would experience a brief period of favorable weather, we mutually decided it was time to resume our journey. However, our prediction proved to be incorrect; his luck waned within 20 minutes of departure. Shortly thereafter, a dark sky descended, unleashing another torrential downpour of cold and hard rain upon Jordan. 

Concerned for his safety, I was relieved when he admitted that seeing out of glasses was challenging. The rain pelted him for over an hour until we reached Eagle, Colorado. I promptly pulled over the side of the road so he could rest and change into dry socks as the rain subsided. The anxiety and fear I experienced over the past hour regarding his safety led to a moment of forgetfulness. When I pulled over, I did not realize I had parked to block an access road, resulting in a meeting with the local police.

I sincerely apologized for my oversight. He was gracious enough to provide us with an overview of our route for the next few hours. He also informed us that there were approximately 30 minutes before the rain would resume. He was correct! Fortunately, there were numerous trails for the next 25 miles, which made the rain riding significantly safer. The rain persisted until we reached the Glenwood Canyon Bike Trail. This was one of the most remarkable trails I have ever seen, spanning approximately 16 miles as it traversed through the Glenwood Canyon (video below).

As the Glenwood Canyon trail was separated from the Highway, I was limited to driving on I-70 to Glenwood Springs to meet him. We anticipated that the weather would worsen before improving, so I was concerned about whether he would reach Glenwood Springs before another storm.

His timing was impeccable as he arrived in Glenwood Springs and loaded the bike onto the car when it began to rain. As before, a cold, relentless rain. We drove approximately two miles through town to the Rio Grande Trail’s starting point. The Rio Grande Trail leads to Aspen, Colorado, but we intended to stop at Carbondale and head west. We found a Wendy’s for dinner and rested for about an hour as the storm passed. I could discern that he was fatigued after enduring three significant climbs in two days!

The impact of the wind can be seen on his jacket

A scenic trail extends from Glenwood Springs to the southwestern outskirts of Carbondale, Colorado. Although it initially appeared flat, a 1,500-foot ascent occurred over the subsequent 25 miles. The prevailing headwind reached speeds of 10 to 15 mph. The trail continued beyond Carbondale into another mountain pass, ultimately leading to Redstone, Colorado. The total distance covered was approximately 92 miles, with an elevation gain exceeding 6,000 feet. Exhausted and the sun setting, we realized the necessity of securing our vehicle for an overnight stay.

Throughout the entire journey, I have experienced heightened anxiety regarding the prospect of sleeping remotely, losing keys, causing a car accident, or encountering any other unforeseen challenges. While we had established a suitable daily sleeping location, I found myself uncomfortable. Consequently, we drove a few miles up and down Highway 133 near Redstone, but nothing seemed more satisfactory than our starting point. Simultaneously, I discovered that I had misplaced the additional set of bicycle hitch and lock keys. I diligently searched the surrounding area for an hour and meticulously reviewed my whereabouts for the past hour, yet I remained unable to locate a solution. We wasted another hour, and I felt profoundly distressed. It was not until approximately 11:00 PM that we were finally able to settle down and sleep.

Segment 1 - 11:43 AM start

Segment 2 - 1:55 PM start

Segment 3 - 7:16 PM start

OVERALL SUMMARY (Day/Overall)

• Miles - 91.27  /  175.06
• Elevation  - 6,140 feet / 17,707 feet
• Riding Time (H:M:S) - 5:50:24 / 12:18:58

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!