Day 1. Astoria to Portland

The tour starts in Astoria, OR, the terminus of the Lewis and Clark expedition. In 1805 they endured the winter there, hoping to catch a ship.  However, they concluded their journey in their camp and ultimately returned home.   It is considered one of the oldest settlements in the west.

The Start

The route today was 104 miles. Oops.  I was planning on 84.  With a detour in the middle, and some extra miles at each end, it was further than anticipated.  But we had a favorable tailwind (thanks mom and pop) so it was a very good trip and gives confidence for the long days ahead.  Including another 100 mile (century) on Friday (today). 

 Weather predictions were for a gorgeous day, zero percent chance of rain.   So, as you would imagine,  I started in a light rain drizzle for the first 10-15 miles.  I guess in Oregon, that is not really rain.   It did clear up to be beautiful as predicted, a perfect day for riding.

The route here has wide shoulders, for the most part, which makes it comfortable for pedaling.  I must admit though, that when the log trucks come barreling by, that is not my favorite part of the day.  However, their trailing vortex and the sweet cedar aromas almost off-set my temporary heart arrhythmia.

I climbed 3600 feet today.  The uphills, while slow (as low as 5mph) and hard, they are the best time to enjoy the scenery.   The downhills (up to 40mph) are of course fun and a relief from the climbs.  (Blake, just like the elementary walkway run, only steeper and without the stairway crash at the end)

For today, we head across the Columbia River to the Washington side.  I can't wait to see the river gorge.   It is a long day, over 100 miles and ends on quite a climb.   So, just planning to take my time.   The overnight is at MaryHill State Park. 

Pandora Mix of the day:  Theme is travelling, so;  Bakithi Kumalo (Transmigration album), Journey (obvious, I suppose), Traveling Wilburys (seems appropriate)