Biking with Bill

Jackson Hole, Teton Pass, high mountain scenery; this is the day we have been waiting for.

Today’s 88 mile trek to Jackson Hole, WY was a CLASSIC bicycle ride. We had 5600 feet of challenging climbing, including over two mountain passes in the Tetons. We saw some of the most beautiful and memorable scenery in America. It is a ride we will remember and talk about for the rest of our lives.

We had enjoyed our time in Idaho falls, learned a bit about bicycle mechanics, and had a relaxing Sunday afternoon.

This morning departure was at 6:30 am –we would be on the road until 3:00 pm. We could see in the haze ahead the peaks of the Tetons. We knew from route rap that the summit of Teton Pass from which we would descend into Jackson Hole was at 8431 feet. We would not begin our “assault” on the summit until the 70 mile mark in today’s ride, and in the afternoon heat. The climb to the summit would require pedaling up 2400 feet in 6.6 miles with a 10% to 12% grade at times. It was clear to all of us that today would be a major challenge.

In the morning riding East on Rt 26 we encountered an estimated 10 to 12 mph headwind. in the flat lands approaching the mountains. The fields we passed were as rich a GREEN as I have ever seen. It was perhaps alfalfa or hay irrigated to perfection. We cycled single file against the wind until about the 40 mile mark when we crossed over the Snake River and began to climb. We turned onto Rt 31 ; “Teton Scenic Byway”–You bet! In the town of Victor we “fueled up” with a milk shake for the climb to the summit of Teton Pass. We entered the Targhee National Forest and climbed over our first summit at Pine Creek Pass. A difficult climb in itself. BUT, the views were incredible! Here I heard the best quote of the day; “What could be more beautiful than this?”

The day’s real hard work began at the 70 mile mark. The grueling climb started here. For most of us it was the most demanding and difficult climb ever attempted. The reward was a speedy 5 mile descent, again with a 10% down slope. Dan (CA) hit 58.3 mph in his “free fall” descent. We all expected a big challenge in the Tetons.....and we found it!

Today was a banner day. It was described in so many ways at different times today: scenic, steep, windy, hot, exciting, “bloody hard”, sweaty, and exhausting. It was all of those, plus...fantastic!

Tomorrow morning on the 4th of July the ABB cyclists will wake up in one of the most beautiful spots in America: Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Bill