4/1 - Unexpected Heights

225 miles.

I've done some difficult things before...but riding over 200 miles leaned into a cross wind, dodging tumbleweed, and then having it turn into a headwind for the last 20 or so miles climbing Poncha Pass (surprise, 9,010 ft!)? The temperatures dropped suddenly to 10 C, hands hurting, wind roaring in my ears but speedo not climbing past 40mph at wide open throttle, cars and 18 wheelers passing with abandon? And did I mention the dust storm earlier and some freezing rain, 'cause why not?

The bar keeps getting higher.

I couldn't have been happier to roll into The Simple Lodge and Hostel in Salida, CO.