The top of Coquihalla

What a day, we started with the uncertainly of our first big climb , wondering how steep it would be ?, how would we handle it ?, would we be able to do it ?. All was answered on the slop of the mountain, we climbed and climbed, small groups and singles dotting the mountain road all climbing at their own pace for 21 kilometers !!, and then after what seemed like an eternity it was there “ the summit of Coquihalla “ and boy what a feeling of accomplishment it was , a personal best for most of us. All the way up we were pushed by a very chilly wind and the temp dropped to 10 degrees by the summit, I started with rain gear and took it off as I was sweating like crazy , twice I had to put it back on and then at the summit I bundled up again for the decent and what a rush that was , we went down and down forever, just flying happy to be over the top .

We stopped for a long lunch at a rest stop at the side of the Hwy and where teased with a bit of sunshine but just teased . Then after another breathtaking decent that we where warned about ( I got up to 66 km/h and was using my breaks occasionally !!! ) we turned off the Hwy onto a peaceful country road and for the last 40 km we where basked in sunshine and warmth , it was just wonderful as we weaved through the valley all of us giddy with accomplishment .

Today we camp in Merritt , a mill town. The change from Hope to here is startling , we went from lush forest to arid dry mountain country in just 112 km, I guess we will be seeing many changes as we cross this wonderful country. 

Two more birthday cakes today !!!, bean burritos and rice for dinner, and after dinner an introduction session where we all got up one by one to introduce ourself to the group. Tomorrow is a rest day , sleep in a bit , and laundry !!!! are top of the list of to does .

Total ridden today 112.8 - average 22.3 - riding time 5.03 

Merritt