The Road Less Traveled

Last night was special. We connected with our good friends from Guatemala, Loa and Russ, for dinner in downtown Vernon. Although it had been six years since we last met, it felt like no time had passed. It was one of those evenings you never want to end. We left committed to meeting again, which is easy for us since Portland isn't too far away, and we've fallen in love with the Okanagan Valley, making a return visit imminent

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This morning started off slowly due to our late night. By mid-morning, we were on our bikes, heading about 50 miles up the road to Sicamous, BC. After a brief stint on the highway, the route took us deep into forested farmland and a maze of country roads. These roads are undoubtedly some of my favorites. They are lightly traveled and wide open, creating a sense of lightness and freedom. They also give way to an appreciation for the hard work of farmers and how the practice of farming has evolved throughout history. It's the rides along the roads less traveled that help you appreciate the gifts and beauty of our Earth.

We arrived in Sicamous earlier than expected. The two of us are pacing each other better than ever before. Our strength is building, and our conditioning is improving at just the right time, as the Canadian Rockies loom ahead. Elevation will increase, and travel distances will lengthen as we approach the Continental Divide. We also know that over the next few days, the road less traveled will no longer be an option; highway riding, where traffic can be heavy, will be the only way for us to cross the Rockies. Tomorrow, we’re off to Revelstoke, BC—our last stop before we begin ascending the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Until tomorrow!

The road less traveled.