Cycling Day 24: Coburg to Alsea, OR. - 53.7 miles and 1,863’ elevation gain

Today was to be relatively easy, with not much elevation gain and low mileage. There would be a spike as we began crossing the Oregon Coast Range, but hey, just one big climb? Bring it on!

Before that, however, we needed to pass through the fertile Willamette Valley, the reason so many pioneer families took to the Oregon Trail, seeking riches, or at least a better way of life, in these western soils.

These farms seemed generally more prosperous, still, from those seen earlier. Not surprising, as the area is generally flat, so it would be easy to farm and get one’s crops to market.

The Big Hill began about 31 miles in, and lasted for about 3 miles before topping out. I had to stop several times to get the heart rate down (again) while Charlie and Beth powered up and past without pause.

We finally got a break in the small town of Alsea, where Kenny and Suzanne served up the best hot dog, maple bar and Mountain Dew I think I’ve ever had. Amped up on sugar, I was sure I could keep up with Charlie and Beth, but they must have had some as well at the cafe next door, as the next time I saw them was in camp.

I think I finally figured out how to set up and take down the tent and equipment efficiently, as I’m no longer the last to do both tasks. Hooray… but wait a moment. We only have one more riding day left. I’m beginning to doubt the wisdom of the saying, “It’s never too late to learn.”

In a stroke of absolute brilliance, David and Beth went down to the nearby stream and managed to catch about two dozen crawfish, which they boiled as an impromptu appetizer.

It’s always our good fortune when either of these people have cooking duty, as their creative menus always impress. The last time I cooked the appetizer was a bag of corn chips, saved only by Peter’s rather extraordinary dip made of cream cheese, a bit of yogurt and strawberry jam.

We’ve picked up some additional contributions to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition while on this, the second half of the tour, so I wanted to recognize how far we’ve come, and plan to send the image of me in their tee shirt to the NOCC when I come up for air at home.

Home… just a few nights away. But first, a big day along the Oregon Coast.