Today was all about
negotiating Sherman Pass. A daunting 5575 feet
with steep roads and narrow shoulders, today was a butt kicker!
It was up and at it early in
order to hit the pass while it was still cool. Colville was shrouded in mist and
fog which gave it a fairyland effect. From Colville it was on to Kettle Falls where the real Hills began.
Taking it slow and easy, it was a steady climb. The countryside was gorgeous and
rich with huckleberries.
At 4 miles from the top I took a lunch break eating my
fill of huckleberries which were as large as blueberries. A bike can stop where
motorcycles and autos can't, so anytime I saw a good patch I just had my
fill. Huckleberries go for $50 a gallon
in this part of the country and I could've easily collected $100 worth in a
matter of an hour.
While taking a break in a very desolated part of the highway to the pass, I took a close look at this pole. Something large had been scraping its claws on it and this left me with an eerie feeling. I was glad to be on my way even though my legs were screaming in pain.
"A dedication to the youth who built the roads and
trails, the fire lookouts and dams and who laid the foundation for growth in our
nation,"
About halfway up the pass I
encountered a historical CCC camp that had been damaged by a storm that
had come through about a week earlier. Trees were uprooted, broken off, and
cabins destroyed. It must've been quite a storm!
After 26 miles I finally
reached the top, totally exhausted, legs shaking, with my lungs gasping. After
a short rest, it was a 15 mile run downhill. To my chagrin, Republic, my
destination for the night, sat atop a very steep hill so my last peddling of
the day was exhausting. Tomorrow it's off bright and early to attack yet
another pass. Wish me luck.
Keep going Steve. This is obviously the roughest part. You can do it!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the encouragement!
ReplyDeleteLooks Like you have had a Great Adventure! Your Bike mechanic from Huntington, IN
ReplyDeleteNot quite over yet, still have 200 miles to do.
DeleteHi Steve, you have a new prayer warrior. I am Durell Hood's mama-in-law whom you passed on the WA trail...he posted your blog. I have been FASCINATED w/you & your journey postings & want you to promise me something...that you w/write a book on your journey. I w/be the 1st in line to purchase it. So glad to see the posting of the CCC camp. My father worked in one in LA during the depression & I used to love to listen to his stories of his working there. My daughter & I just picked 3 gallons of blueberries yesterday for $25, wish I had a way to ship you some; a little jingle for those bike repairs you've had to endure.
ReplyDeleteI have a very dear friend who is a Viet Naum vet & I wish you two could meet. He has the same sweet spirit & love of his countrymen as you...you would instantly love one another. My prayers are w/you on the wings of a white dove perched on your shoulder...be safe. Jan Thibodeaux
Thank you for joining in on the blog, the encouragement, and for the kind words. I have met so many incredible people on this trip!
DeleteThat picture is magical! And the huckleberries look delicious!! Nice work, Dad! You can do it!
ReplyDeleteEm
Getting close to the end point! It's been a long and wonderful trip!
ReplyDelete