Pedaling Science: A TransAmerica Bicycle Adventure

Coast to Coast Complete!!

2008-08-21T12:35:00.000-07:00

After my return to Warrenton, Virginia, reality set in and I realized that I had a very small window of opportunity left to complete the coast to coast segment of my trip. A quick check of the calendar revealed to me that the Highland volleyball season and teacher workdays were upon me. I jumped back on the bicycle Friday, August 15, and headed South. On Saturday, August 16, I eased the front tire into the salty waters. Lise met me there and after a celebratory meal, we headed home.

Thanks again to all of you that have supported my adventure and supplied lots of needed encouragement.

Many Thanks

2008-08-09T05:54:00.000-07:00

What a great feeling to be welcomed home by so many friends and family. I met a lot of kind and considerate people along my route and made some new friends along the way. But, there is no place like home! Thanks to all of you who have followed and supported my adventure.

Welcome Home

2008-08-09T05:38:00.000-07:00

Lise and friends organized a warm reception for me at Highland School, complete with a special cake, posters and refreshments. The country has changed a little since I started my trip!

Security Escorts

2008-08-09T05:26:00.000-07:00

Pictured are two of my escorts into Warrenton. Chris Giglio and Jim Bounds met me on the route into Warrenton. Larry Byvik also accompanied me to the finish. Also pictured is David Norden who is a good friend and official representative for the Town of Warrenton. I may actually get a "key" to the town!!!

Pedaling the Skyline Drive

2008-08-09T05:20:00.000-07:00

The last segment home was atop the Skyline Drive, in Shenandoah National Park. The weather was perfect and the views were spectacular. Lise joined me at Skyland on my last night on the road and we enjoyed an evening overlooking the Shenandoah Valley.

Warrenton to Warrenton

2008-08-05T13:51:00.000-07:00

Two miles inland from the coast of Oregon, where I began my journey, is the town of Warrenton, Oregon. I had a photo taken in anticipation of having another photo-opt at the Warrenton, Virginia post office upon the completion of my trip.

On Friday, the final segment of my route will take me from the Skyline Drive, down Thornton Gap, into Sperryville and East on 211 into Warrenton. After lunch in Sperryville, I will most likely get to the Warrenton PO around 4:00 and then pedal over to Highland School to meet with Lise to catch a ride home. At some point in time, I will complete the coast to coast connection to the Eastern Shore.

See you Friday!!!!!

A Welcome Site

2008-08-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

Lise met me at the Virginia border during her return trip from North Carolina, after visiting a friend. We spent the night at the lovely Oaks Motel. It was the finest motel in Rosedale, Virginia. Unfortunately, during the daily thundershower, the rain swelled the door shut, trapping Lise inside. Her quick instincts prompted her to crawl OUT THE WINDOW!

A Welcome Site Too

2008-08-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

Day 60, Wednesday, June 30, between downpours and cloud bursts, I crested a hill to the welcome site of the Virginia state line!!!

Last Encounter

2008-08-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

As we exited Kentucky we camped with probably the last of the "westbounders" we will see. This site was at the Boonesville, Kentucky Presbyterian Church.

Country Road Take Me Home!

2008-07-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

If all continues to go well, and after a few stops along the way to visit my Mother and some friends, I plan to pedal Route 211 East into Warrenton on the afternoon of Friday, August 8. I look forward to seeing my family and friends who have been so supportive of my adventure and sharing my stories and reponding to your blog messages.

Oh Kentucky Hills

2008-07-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

Since entering Kentucky on Wednesday, July 23, we have covered over 430 miles of hills and mountains in the past six days! The scenery has been beautiful,, but the terrain is very difficult. One more day in Kentucky and we plan to enter VIRGINIA on Wednesday evening July 30, at Breaks Interstate Park !!!!!!

Some Good Dogs

2008-07-29T17:37:00.000-07:00

There are some GOOD dogs in Kentucky. During a rest stop Mark, John and Tom met up with "Angel".

Unbridled Spirit and Unleashed Dogs

2008-07-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Kentucky! On Wednesday, July 23, I ferried across the Ohio River from Illinois into the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The trek across Illinois only took two days!

Riding the Levee

2008-07-22T19:40:00.000-07:00

Much of the morning of Tuesday, July 22, was spent pedaling atop the levee adjacent to the Mississippi River.

Land of Lincoln and Popeye

2008-07-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

OnMonday, July 21, I entered the State of Illinois and the town of Chester. Illinois is known for the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, but Chester is known for the creation of the character Popeye!

The Mississippi River was crossed via a lenghty steel bridge, followed by a climb to the town Courthouse overlooking the river basin. I was awakened during the night by a wind storm and subsequent downpouring of rain.

Welcome relief from the heat

2008-07-22T18:51:00.000-07:00

We climbed a long grade to get to Circle B Campgound in Eminence, Missouri, but it was worth the effort. The owner provided us with inner tubes and after a lazy float down the river, returned us to camp via a van service.

Ty Cobb, Hank Aaron, Stan Musial, Gary Hicklin

2008-07-21T18:54:00.000-07:00

HITTING 3000 !!!!!!!

Hills, Heat and Humidity

2008-07-18T13:12:00.000-07:00

Following a few weeks on the plains, the first full day in Missouri challenged our legs and our climbing skills. This is just the FOOTHILLS, the Ozark mountains are ahead!

Kudos to Kansas / Show Me Something Missouri

2008-07-18T13:00:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, July 16, we departed Kansas and entered Missouri. The small towns of Kansas were very accomodating and each had a community park for camping. Most had a town swimming pool which offered us free use of the showers and the pool. I personally liked Kansas because it has TREES and GRASS, much like home.

The Wizards of Oz meet Humpty Dumpty

2008-07-18T12:30:00.000-07:00

On Hwy 39, outside of Walnut, Kansas, the Eastbound Express derailed. We were in our pace line, alternating lead, to counter the Kansas wind. There was an unexpected stop, followed by a convergence of all the laws of physics and the universe, especially the BIG BANG theory! Numbers 4 and 5 in line, Asta and I paid the greatest penalty. Fortunately, our injuries are treatable with a 10# bag of ice, a bottle of Advil and a tube of Neosporine. Our equipement survived, less a little paint and a mirror. The actual event must have looked pretty severe to the oncoming motorist because it prompted a few pre-mature 911 calls.

Oz 2008

2008-07-15T20:38:00.000-07:00

My trip across Kansas has been highlighted by new found companions. From the left is Blair, Mark, John and Asta. Blair and Asta are sisters. They began their journey in San Francisco. I met them at Fort Larned on Saturday, July 12. Mark and John started their trip in Arizona. I met them previously in Bazine. We are all Virginia bound!

My Good Friend Baxter

2008-07-15T20:13:00.000-07:00

On Friday, July 11, I spent the night at Elaine's Bicycle Oasis, in Bazine, Kansas. While there, I met my good friend Baxter, the last of a litter of ten Golden Retrievers. I also met with two fellow eastbounders, Mark and John, traveling to Virginia from Arizona.

Hello Dorothy

2008-07-10T16:35:00.000-07:00

Today, Thursday, July 10, I entered the lovely state of Kansas! For the next 400 miles it is grain fields, grain elevators and lots of wind and sunshine. Hopefully, no tornados!

We are all WINNERS!

2008-07-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, July 9, on my way to Eads, Colorado, I met Jerry and Lynn Lisenby. They are westbound on the Trans-Am route. Jerry mentioned that I could tell my friends that I had met the biggest loser. I thought that was a rather negative comment, since we were out here every day accomplishing personal goals! It turns out that he was a contestant on last season's television show, "The Biggest Loser", and had in fact lost 110 pounds.

And you think I've lost weight!

Sunrise over Southeastern Colorado

2008-07-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

The days begin early, around 5:30 a.m., to get in the 70 - 80 daily miles, before the 95+ afternoon heat.

This is Guffey, Colorado !!

2008-07-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

The Town of Guffey, Colorado, is the home of John and Colleen, and their cat, who just happens to be the official Mayor. The cat's name is Monster and his story has been published in several tabloids and various media. John will share those with you when you arrive and sit down awhile to discuss life as it was in the 60's. Guffey is a favorite stop for many cyclists, both pedal powered and motorized. The accomodations are simple and very affordable. They include a bona-fide outdoor privy, a shower constructed of garden hose, shower head and cast iron tub with one side carved out, so you do not have to step over! A sleeping shed, complete with a bed on hinges and chains, which lowers from a side wall. And a chain, which is attached to the outside wall, but also attaches to a hook on the inside of the door, to keep the bears from opening you door at night. Now, since the chain is attached to the outside, that means the door does not completely close. But, John advises, " the space is too small for a bear to get through".
Guffey was a great experience and worth the one mile climb, off route! You must see the collection of photos when I return.

All Things Flowing Toward the Atlantic!

2008-07-08T15:31:00.000-07:00

Hoosier Pass is the final major, and highest, summit on the Trans-America route. The elevation is 11,542 feet. It is also the last crossing of the Continental Divide. So now all things, including me, are flowing toward the Atlantic. I guess that means it will be all down hill! Yippee!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

2008-07-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

BRECKENRIDGE, COLORADO

FOURTH OF JULY

2000+ MILES PEDALED

ALL ON ONE DAY!

THANKS FOR ALL THE MESSAGES

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

2008-07-05T16:08:00.000-07:00

I was welcomed into Colorado on Wednesday afternoon, July 2, by an afternoon thunderstorm / windstorm. I found shelter in a town Post Office for two hours while it passed. I then pedaled onto my destination of Walden, CO to find every hotel and motel posting NO VACANCY. With the help of some local networking, I landed at the home of Tom & Doris. They offered me their living room sleepsofa. That was a better draw than the stranded motorcyclist received. He got a bed in a bedroom, but it was filled with perfumed dolls that chimed, on the hour, throughout the night!

What a difference a day makes!

2008-07-05T15:38:00.000-07:00

Behind me are the Teton mountains of Wyoming and now all I see is sagebrush, endless stretches of highway, blazing sun, carabou and wind, wind, wind! One day of riding in the lower Wyoming plains and another day of riding in the upper plateau Wyoming plains.

Quiet little Lander, Wyoming

2008-07-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

On Sunday afternoon, Sunday, June 29, I pedaled into the quiet little Wyoming town of Lander. I collapsed under a shade tree and entertained the locals with an afternoon of snoring, before setting up my tent. I pedaled over to the local pool and shower, then ate dinner and returned around 8:00 p.m. for a quiet evening and early bedtime. However, about 50 yards from my tent was Lander's version of the Grateful Dead! They actually sounded O.K., although I did leave my hearing aids at home.

There is still snow here!

2008-07-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

Togwotee Pass accomplished! Just one more major Pass ahead, Hoosier Pass, Colorado, 11, 542 feet!

The GRAND Tetons!

2008-07-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

After a week with Lise, I left Jackson Hole on Saturday, June 28, and began pedaling East again. I actually saw Lise's plane take-off from the Jackson Airport on my way out of town. I crossed the second highest summit on the Trans-Am route, Togwotee Pass, about 10,000 feet elevation.

Man vs Wild

2008-06-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

Check out the biker tan line! While in Jackson Hole, Lise and I teamed up with our god-child Gray Hamlin for a raft trip down the Snake River. Gray is a river guide for Mad River Rafters and he gave us a wild ride down the river, including a tasty dinner of steak and trout.

Just Another Day in Paradise

2008-06-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

The morinings were very chilly, but the sky was crytal clear and the views were spectacular on our travel through Grand Teton National Park.

Tour de Lise

2008-06-27T10:01:00.000-07:00

Over three Continental Divides, at 8000'. Four days of riding through Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, over 140 miles! A new personal best of distance pedaled, 42 miles! All on a rental bicycle! Go Lise!

Old Faithful Right on Schedule

2008-06-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

Lise and I left West Yellowstone on Sunday, June 22 around 11:00 a.m. and pedaled the 31 miles to Old Faithful, just in time to witness the afternoon geyser. Our lodging for the night was a cabin adjacent to Old Faithful.

Oh Give Me A Home.....

2008-06-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

Where the Buffalo Roam .......
Lise and I were pedaling through Yellowstone National Park and came upon a three mile vehicle back-up. We advanced past at least five hundred cars and campers until we caught up with the Park Service and the source of the problem. This herd of buffalo decided to parade down the middle of the road! Dad, Mom and the kids, out for a stroll. I swear I saw a couple of them smerking! Eventually, Lise and I had to pass through the herd as they split to both shoulders of the road. Those were a few anxious and vulnerable moments.

The Plains connection in Montana

2008-06-24T19:55:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, June 22, I was met in West Yellowstone by Lise and Gray Hamlin, our god-child, and our friends from The Plains, who now reside in Montana, the Stickleys. Pictured are Devon, Dennis, Carole and our former neighborly dog friend Bailey.

West Yellowstone's Finest!

2008-06-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

Along the West Yellowstone strip, next to the Conoco Gas Station, lies one of West Yellowstone's finest motels, the Ho-Hum. It's owner, Bernadette, aka "Bernie" is a legend in this area. She is a no-nonsense lady! When I inquired a second time about the direction that I should follow to my quarters, she responded very matter-of-factly, " the way I pointed!" The Ho-Hum boasts the fact that they recently installed electric baseboard heat in some of their newer units! I had the corner room, next to the street and sidewalk, Room # 0 (zero).

Last Segment to Wyoming

2008-06-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 21, I pedaled the 60 mile segment from Cameron, Montana to West Yellowstone, where I am to meet Lise on Sunday. It was a long, uphill ride against a strong head wind. The first headwind that I have had to deal with thus far in my journey. The scenery however was beautiful along the Madison River and Hebgen Lake.

West Yellowstone Here I Come

2008-06-20T18:21:00.000-07:00

Friday, June 20, 2008
I just completed my last major climb on my way to West Yellowstone to meet Lise. I visited the old west town of Virginia City and then climbed out of the valley, to about 7100'. Tommorow, Saturday, June 21, I will finish the 60 miles to West Yellowstone.

Hail to the Chief

2008-06-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, June 18. Over Chief Joseph Pass, my highest summit thus far, 7241 feet elevation! It is also the first venture over the Continental Divide.

"Oh by the way, watch out for the bear!"

2008-06-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

This was an interesting evening on Tuesday, June 17, in Sula, Montana. I planned my stop in Sula because my map indicated food, motel and camping. Sula is a one-stop has it all kind of town. I arrived at 5:10 p.m. to understand that they DO have a restaurant, it's just not open right now! We do however have a microwave and some hot pockets!

" Would you like a tent site or a cabin?" "Oh, by the way, we do have a bear that visits the dumpster every night." " I'll take a cabin!"

By the way, the bear did not miss his nightly round.

BIG SKY COUNTRY

2008-06-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

After a climb over Lolo Pass, I entered the State of Montana, on Monday, June 16,2008. I also surpassed the 1000th mile pedaled on this section! I'm already 1/4 the way home! Only 3000 more miles to go!

Have a Nice Day!

2008-06-16T21:01:00.000-07:00

I was greeted on the 70 mile stretch along the Lochsa River on my way to Lolo Pass with these words of encouragement! Only 56 miles and 5200' elevation from Montana!!!

2008-06-16T20:50:00.000-07:00

In the valley below, U.S. calvary were ambushed and killed by the Nez Perce Indians and Chief White Bird. The climb out of the valley almost did me in as well. It was the hardest ascent for me thus far. It was on Old Highway 95, in Idaho, and involved a stretch of approximately ten miles and 20 - 25 switchback curves. It took me over two hours to climb. Unfortunately, I pushed a little extra this day and approached the base at mile 90, with twenty to go to my next stop in Grangeville, Idaho. A total of 110.5 miles this day! A new single day record!

2008-06-16T20:44:00.000-07:00

This is my buddy "Jimmy" and his 12 lb. salmon! He and a couple hundred of his salmon fishing buddies lined the shoulder and the Salmon River as I passed through Riggins, Idaho. Jimmy offered to sell me his catch, but I just couldn't handle the extra weight.

I - DA - HO and proud of it!

2008-06-16T20:39:00.000-07:00

Nothing against Oregon. It is a beautiful state! But is sure is nice to enter another one!

Halfway to Hell ( Canyon)

2008-06-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

I shared the ride with my new friend Lucas for two days. It was nice to have someone to share the sites with. At this point we were in the town of Halfway, halfway to Hell's Canyon.

Highway Engineering

2008-06-16T20:26:00.000-07:00

I am not an engineer,but ....
It appears from my trans-america bicycling
eperience that regardlesss of the mileage approaching
a mountain, the last six miles are vertical, at about a
7% grade!

2008-06-16T20:17:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, June 11, the skies began to clear. Another day and another summit!

2008-06-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

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This was the view outside my hotel window on Tuesday, June 10, in Baker City, Oregon. Most of the roads above 3000' were being plowed. I opted to stay another day in Baker City. The Tulane trio continued eastward. I will be anxious to hear their stories.

Day of Rest

2008-06-10T19:17:00.000-07:00

I doubled up on distance during the break in the weather, covering 95, 87 and 69 miles in consecutive days. I caught up with the guys from Tulane University that I met back on day four 0n my way to Eugene. Pictured with me are (from the left) Jake, Andy, Chris and Luke. We all rested at the Super 8 in Baker City, Oregon. I spent an extra day for recovery and to wait out the snow! After all,it is only the 10th of June!
The Tulane Trio took off this morning regardless.
Luke is still here at the Super 8.

Luke "The Piano Man" Kirby

2008-06-10T19:04:00.000-07:00

I met up with Luke in Prairie City on Sunday, June 8. Luke is a musician and pianist from Spokane, Washington. He too is on his way to Virginia via the Trans-America trail. We have been traveling at the same pace for the past few days. We plan to attack the mountains of Idaho together.

Over The Top

2008-06-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

Success is measured in passage over summits. Thus far:
Santiam Pass 4817 feet
Ochoco Pass 4720 feet
Keyes Creek Pass 4357 feet
Triple Threat: These 3 in one day
Dixie Pass 5277 feet
Tipton Pass 5124 feet
Sumpter Pass 5082 feet

More and higher to come!

The Ladies of Apostolic Christian Church

2008-06-10T18:39:00.000-07:00

I found brief shelter along the climb over Santiam Pass in the cold and snow. I was greeted by these young ladies from the Apostolic Christian Church. Apparently I looked very cold and miserable. They were very comforting and encouraged my progress. They were there to see the waterfalls on this beautiful Oregon day!

SUNSHINE !!!!!!

2008-06-10T15:37:00.000-07:00

So that is what we crossed!? The first day of sunshine, June 7. I look over my shoulder to see the Cascades in the background as I pedal East. On this first sunny day, I managed 95 total miles.

Crossing Santiam Pass, Oregon

2008-06-10T15:26:00.000-07:00

I met Bryan and Molly east of Eugene, headed toward our first major 5000'+ crossing, Santiam Pass, Oregon. They are from Portland and are also headed East to Virginia, via a side trip through Canada and the Atlantic Coast! At the summit it was 29 degrees and blowing snow. On the descent I completely lost my rear brake pads due to the grit and water solution. Molly and Bryan stopped on the other side of the mountain at a family cabin. I hope to cross paths with them again.

Trans-Am Veterans

2008-06-10T14:56:00.001-07:00

The moment I saw Andy and Dave ride into camp I knew these boys weren't rookies! These two "Brits" began their cross country journey in Virginia, in April. They are only three days from completing their task. It was a miserably cold and rainy day. We "rookies" were huddled inside the lodge lamenting over our harsh ride. These two rolled in wearing shorts and dripping wet shoes, oblivious to the elements. It was a pleasure to have met and conversed with them.

2008-06-10T14:33:00.000-07:00

Some of you have inquired about my equipment. This is my tag-along friend Bob, alias "Wilson", Trailer. He follows me everywhere I go. Just like me, Bob has lost some weight along the way. Thanks to Connie Wonham and UPS, he shed a few pounds in Eugene. Bob and I often have conversations during our travels. He is a burden on the upgrade, but loves to push me down the other side.

Oh thank heaven

2008-06-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

After five days of riding in the rain and snow, I thanked the Lord for Lise, Motel 6's and Desitin ointment, in that order! This is my room, attempting to dry everything I brought.

My visit with the Wonhams

2008-06-10T14:10:00.000-07:00

Connie and Harry Wonham on the deck of their beautiful home overlooking the city of Eugene. Unfortunately, I did not get their children Emory, Grant or Walker in the photo. Of course, I did get the dogs!
Connie saved my life by taking me to the local bicycle shop to purchase more suitable biking clothing for this unusual Oregon weather.
For those of you who do not know, the Wonhams spent some of their time in Fauquier County before locating to Eugene.

Leaving the Pacific Coast

2008-06-10T14:02:00.000-07:00

After three days of climbing along the Pacific Range I headed to Eugene, Oregon to see my good friends the Wonhams.

2008-06-03T06:16:00.000-07:00

The climbs along the Pacific Range have been tough during days one and two, but the views have been spectacular. The route is scenic, but after two days and 130 miles, I am only 5 miles East!

2008-06-03T06:07:00.000-07:00

I have labeled this trip " Warrenton to Warrenton". Warrenton, Oregon is two miles off the coast of the Pacific from my starting point. There is a Warrenton High School here with a sign that reads " Home of the Warriors". How cool is that!

2008-06-03T05:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning, June 1. The beginning and ceremonial "rear tire dip" in the Pacific Ocean!

2008-05-31T19:30:00.000-07:00

Some assembly required! My bike and trailer both made the trip across and are now fully assembled and ready to go.

2008-05-31T18:59:00.000-07:00

I had a pleasant 8 hour flight from Dulles to Portland, Oregon today, Saturday, May 31, 2008. I am spending my first night at my brother-in-law George Vogt's home in Portland.
In the morning, he will take me to Warrenton, Oregon, on the Pacific coast, to dip my rear tire and begin my journey.