Day 59 - Tuesday, August 6, 2002
Total to date: 3897.69 miles (6272.7 km)
Moving time: 6 hr 7 min.
Average Speed: 11.4 mph (18.3 km/hr)
Total ascent: 2700 ft. (823.0 m)
Minimum elevation: 2337 ft. (712.3 m)
Maximum elevation: 4739
Ending elevation: 2992 ft. (912.0 m)
Wind: Calm for first fifteen miles. East winds (tailwind) at 10 mph for next 40 miles; 10 mph crosswind for last 15 miles.
I tackled the second to last major climb of the trip over Ochoco Pass today. It was then a downhill ride to Prineville and Redmond. My last mail drop for the trip was picked up in Prineville today.
I didn't take very many pictures today since it was overcast and there weren't too many outstanding sites to see. Here are two pictures that I did take along the Crooked River between Prineville and Redmond.
I got my first glimpse of the Cascade Range today as I rode into Redmond. They certainly rise very high into the air and many are snow capped.
Today I found out that Vanguard Airlines, the airline that I bought a ticket to fly home on, is grounded. They ran out of money, dismissed nearly all employees, and have filed for bankruptcy. Just when I thought everything was arranged for my return this happens. Their web site provided information about flying with other airlines. I called USAir, my usual carrier, to see what they could do. The reservationist I spoke with was extremely helpful and booked a seat for me on a nonstop flight from Seattle to Pittsburgh the same day that I was supposed to fly. All I have to do is show my eticket from Vanguard when I check in and they'll take care of billing Vanguard or whatever.
The benefit to this is that the flight is nonstop rather than a layover in Kansas City with Vanguard. The downside is that USAir charges $80 to bring a bike on board as compared to $25 with Vanguard.
Motel: $20.00