ABBN15: Idaho Falls to Jackson, Wy

"Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So... get on your way." - Dr Seuss

Get on your way we did and it almost did me in.  Chuck Carlson had warned “Teton Pass is tough – 10% grade. Don’t wear your self out before you get there.”  But his advise was difficult to take since our first 44 miles had significant headwind. So I was tired by the time we made the left turn to the passes. 

Two days ago when we had the 102 mile day I was riding slow, at least in the morning. It seemed that everyone passed me before the first rest stop. And today, I certainly wasn’t with any of the faster riders. Or even the average riders.  You’re supposed to get stronger as the ride goes on; I seem to be getting weaker!

The climb to Pine Creek Summit (6,764 feet) was beautiful and we no longer had headwind. It was as if we were riding in an alpine meadow – may not have been one but felt like it.  The beginning and ending miles were relatively steep but the majority of the 14 mile climb was rolling.  We then lost 900 feet to the town of Victor for lunch.

We enter Wyoming and then begin the climb to Teton Pass (8,431 feet). It’s only 8 miles, but a tough 8 miles, the last 2.5 with a 10% grade. REFI was in jeopardy but I made it by stopping frequently. There were several riders walking part of the last 2 miles.  At the top of the pass there was no sign recognizing your accomplishment, but the view (left) was worth all the effort. 

The downhill was steep – 10% grade for 5 miles. Even though I was on my brakes the entire time, I reached 37 mph. 

Ride leader Mike Monk is fond of saying “If you liked today, you’re going to love tomorrow.” And tomorrow is another 88 mile day with significant climbing; we’re over 9,000 feet as we cross the Continental Divide.  -- See more of today’s photos below.

Day	Miles today	Feet climbed	Hrs in saddle	Miles so far	Miles to go	Days to go
15	89	4,132	8.25	1,087	2,600	35