62 miles, 3816 ft elevation gain
Since my touring bike is on the UPS truck, I had to ride my other bike (Rodriguez Stellar) on Sunday. It is a pleasure to ride and quite a different experience from riding the touring bike. So light, nimble (twitchy), almost flies up the hills.
With a good weather forecast, I picked out a challenging ride: across Mercer Island, out on May Valley Road to the Issaquah – Hobart Road, and then up Tiger Mountain Road for some climbing. It was planned as an out and back ride, but part way through I got the idea that I could return via Renton and Lake Washington Blvd. Only trouble was that I got lost in Renton, although eventually got found and made it to the airport and familiar roads.
Here’s the map:

At this point, I am almost ready to head to Boston. I have never been on such a long trip before, so it is a little scary to realize I will be away from home for three months. But at this point, I have gotten most things wrapped up (or I will by Wed. afternoon).
I really appreciate the help and advice I have gotten from friends, bike tourers, and everyone. People have offered up possible stopping points at their friends’ and relatives’ places that are close to the route, and have told me about interesting sites along the way, and even good campgrounds! Thanks to all for your help, it makes a big difference to me.
