Day 32

Today was a fairly easy day, 59 miles from Westcliffe to Salida. Both towns are great, and this whole Wet Valley experience has been awesome.

Salida is a pretty kickass town nestled in this massive valley. There are three bike shops, tons of awesome little bookshops and art galleries, and more in that vein. We were directed by one of the gals working at the bike shop to a restaurant where we got awesome thai food. Just a rad town to be in, all-around.

Tonight we’re in bed early, in preparation for our biggest climb of the trip, Monarch Pass (elev. 11,312 ft.), tomorrow. This is going to be gnarly. After the climb, however intense it may be, we’ve got a thirty mile downhill and a place to crash in Gunnison. Definitely psyched for showers after a sick day.

I’m listening to a Dharma Bums audiobook on the iPod since I haven’t been able to find any Kerouac to read, then passing out. Wish us luck, hopefully we’ll have some pictures for y’all tomorrow.

T.