RecumBum

2007 Katy Trail Ride, Day #3: Columbia to Mokane

Today was a good ride, though a bit longer than it should have been. As we left the campsite, only one other rider was around, and we weren’t sure the way out, so we asked for directions, and he pointed us to a likely-looking trail. After a half mile or so, when we hadn’t seen anyone else, either ahead of us or behind us, we realized we’d been mislead. So we had to backtrack. This time, there was a line of riders to follow.

The ride from Columbia out to the Katy Trail was mostly downhill, and there were quite a few bikers, runners, and walkers out enjoying the early morning.

It was actually rather chilly, with crisp temperatures and a slight breeze. It was overcast the entire day, which made for a pleasant ride. It threatened rain a few times, and actually sprinkled once, but never actually rained. Despite that, the day didn’t feel humid.

Just past Providence, we stopped for a short hike up to the Eagle Bluffs Overlook, which provides a spectacular view of the Missouri River valley and floodplain. Large white birds (Egrets?) were congregating in the trees below.

We had lunch in Hartsburg. We’d hoped to talk with someone at the bike shop there, but alas, it’s gone. Instead, we stopped for ice cream at Dotty’s Cafe, and ended up eating lunch there as well.

Rob followed a pattern similar to yesterday, starting off feeling strong and frisky, and then feeling weak and sluggish after lunch. At least today his posterior wasn’t hurting him, so apparently the new seat did the trick.

There was a nasty little surprise at Mokane. The campground was at a school, which was about two extra miles, with a long climb out of the river valley and onto the bluffs.

As I write, it’s late evening. The sun, which came out from the clouds just before dusk, has warmed the tent, and the air, which had been moving gently all day, is now absolutely still, and it’s rather warm and sticky.

We have one more long day tomorrow, then a short day on Friday. The weather report is calling for warmer temperatures the next few days.

Totals: 56.68 miles, 5:16:49 ride time, 10.73 MPH average

Perche Creek Bridge

View From Eagle Bluffs Overlook

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