Looking up, I spotted several other cyclists and eventually caught up to
them; we immediately exchanged words of encouragement. Someone yelled “only five
miles to the top.” That also meant it was the crux: 1500’ of vertical gain at a
six percent steady gradient. A quick calculation translated that into 30 or 40
minutes on the saddle. After a mile or so of progress, the second Native Planet
SAG pulled up with Jean-Philippe inside. “I’m doing OK. I’ll see you at
Washington Pass,” I said. I felt glad they had come by and a renewed sense of
energy surged in me. More miles ticked by. Up ahead, I saw the road was about to
make a giant horseshoe bend with the massive 7700’ Liberty Bell mountain dead
ahead. Almost there—less than one mile to go! A huge smile crossed my lips as I
crested Washington Pass and spotted the roads I had traveled in the
mountain-ringed valley down below. Several cyclists were already huddled at the food stop at Washington Pass. There was a dizzying assortment of delicious food but coffee and hot drinks were the most popular items! I helped myself to several sandwiches, fruit, Clif
Bars and cookies. The food and support was by far the best I had ever had on any
ride. When the rain started diminishing slightly, a few folks immediately began
their long descent back to Winthrop. Others hunted for any sort of wind-blocking
materials they could find: plastic bags inside the shoes, trash can liners
inside the jersey, etc. Feeling nourished and refreshed, I decided to add a few
more miles to my trip and kept heading west to the second mountain pass: 4860’
Rainy Pass. Because the north-south Pacific Crest Trail crosses nearby, it is a
popular hiking destination. After a cold, finger-numbing, three and a half-mile
descent followed immediately by a very welcome one-mile climb, I was there. To
my utmost joy, the rain stopped completely and, barely five minutes later, the
clouds cleared and blue skies appeared overhead. I was grateful that Rainy Pass
had not lived up to its infamous moniker this time. “Mountain weather” I
muttered. “Or perhaps I’m being rewarded for my extra effort?”Page
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