There was a very early start today despite the fairly short distance involved, but there was a side trip in the van to the Arches National Park during the afternoon and I was on it and looking forward to it. It was Sunday, Fathers Day and the traffic on the road was very light so early in the morning. The weather was fantastic right from the off and it was perfect conditions for the 'Sunday Club Run'. Gary was back on the road so our 4 was complete. As we progressed the scenery was very dramatic with the mesa area coming to the fore. That's the flat topped land with scree down the sides, just like in the cowboy films. The SAG after 33 miles was welcome and a chance to take in the scenery.
After that the scenery became even more dramatic and we had some good downhill sections to keep our average speed up and overall we lost height today. We got to Green River about 11.00am, quite early and passed over the Green River which, given the arid area it passes through, I imagined was going to be something akin to the Gavenny after several weeks of drought, but no it was quite impressive and full. Fed by melt water coming down from the mountains. Green River town makes Battle Mountain look big, the population is only 946 and declining, though it can boast two laundramats and the world famous 'West Winds' restaurant, though I must admit it hadn't crossed my radar. I had my picture taken with my Heart Foundation T-shirt on by the Green River, so called because it eventually joins the Colorado River and it seems that from a hill near the confluence the Colorado looks red due to the fact that its passed through a decent chunk of red sandstone, whereas the Green River looks, well, green, or at least not red.
After lunch I went to the Arches National Park which frankly was mindblowing. I will not try to describe it, I could not do it justice, just look at the photos.
Today's mileage was 66.2 miles.
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Hi Wayne,
We're very impressed! Makes our 45 mile rides look somewhat feeble! However, we're still trying to keep up the mileage in your absence. We shall expect you to ride on the front at all times in future. Also impressed at your early morining rising!
We're joining you in the US tomorrow ( Thursday), but down in Georgia, so unfortunately we won't be able to stand at the side of the road & give you a cheer. Keep the Welsh flag flying, and keep up the entertaining blog.
Best wishes, Bill & Pam
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