Jun 8, Government Camp to Cascade Locks

What a pretty ride we had today! We saw lots of different terrain with just beautifully landscaped yards. Since we were on country roads we had some major short climbs and downhills. One of the downhills was a 16% one! I've never done a 16% downhill! It really was fun, sort of like a roller coaster. I held on to the breaks until I could see the bottom and then let go!! It still makes me smile.

It did get very windy and we were to cross the Columbia Gorge. Our guides had already been over it once and with the strong wind gusts had concerns for our crossing it. So 8 of us took their advice and piled into the van for the crossing. Now this is no easy doing. Each of the bikes has to be hauled up onto the top of the van and secured in place before we can leave. After the crossing the reverse is done and each bike taken down for the 7 mile ride to the BW Columbia River Inn. This is just a darling hotel right on the river. Our room has a beautiful view and is nice and sunny. We are here for a rest day and maybe will take a paddle boat ride on our day off.

Mt Hood.
I am considering giving a test at the end
to see if you remember each mountain 
that's been photoed.

Paddle boat we might take a ride on.
This was taken from our room.
We even have a patio with chairs.

We'll need to cross this metal bridge
called Bridge of the gods when we leave Friday.

After the van ride the 7 mile ride was so hard, huge climbs of 12-13% with what else head winds. In all a fine fun day.

SaveSave