Inquiring Minds Want to Know...

When on a tour, especially long distance, there's so much time to take things in, ponder and wonder why?  So, today we're at the second sag at the top of Sherman Pass when a loaded log truck and trailer pulls in.  The driver gets out and somehow extends out the hitch for the pup to about six foot or so before he starts down the other side.  Inquiring minds at the SAG want to know why?  We expect Dale or Rick can probably answer.

We've seen many of these trucks during the past few days, and today's route took us past two different Boise Cascade facilities.  Seeing all that timber in various stages of preparation is fascinating, and the smell is amazing!

We've made it to Colville.  Mileage was pretty short today, 56 miles; but there was the 17 mile, 4 - 6% grade climb to Sherman Pass this morning and the heat continues.  I know it's starting to be a broken record.  There's no expectation of any change soon.

Climbing in the morning was a welcome change.  Everyone managed well as it was only 59 degrees when we left Republic and the climb good shade.  By the time we arrived at the top, things were starting to heat up. 

At the top of Sherman Pass, 5,575'

Climbing to the top

After a 20 mile, 6% downhill run, everyone was trying to finish the last 20 plus miles as efficiently as possible.  It was 99 when I arrived at 1:30.

Scenery was magnificent all along the way today, both up and down from the Pass.

View of the Columbia River as we came down from Sherman Pass

Crossing the Columbia River

Lots of activity in Colville seems to be related to the holiday weekend, but we can also see another fire across the ridge behind the motel we're in.  There's been a flurry of fire fighting equipment moving out of town since we arrived and the sound of helicopters, which may or may not be related.  We'll hope for the best for everyone.

If all continues as planned, we move into Idaho tomorrow.  A 101 mile day into Priest River then a rest day.  Weather appears to be similar there as it is here.  The group is apprehensive, but I'm sure we'll have an early start to help get as much of the route completed as possible before the heat of the day.  I have SAG tomorrow, so we'll be prepared to support the riders no matter what happens.

Hope everyone has a great 4th of July!