Wow!

What a day! I started off in Roosevelt with my goal of making Umatilla and finding a campground. I got spit on by a few rain clouds, but nothing major. I had a 10 - 12 mph tailwind, and as long as I was moving everything was peaceful and quiet; however, when I'd stop for a break, I was assaulted by the wind. There were no towns, rest areas or trees for windbreaks. I made it to the bridge at Umatilla, and just as the bridge started, the shoulder went from 4 feet to about a foot and a half! With a 12 mph crosswind, there was no way I was riding that, so I ended up walking over--still scary as hell! Since it was only 1:30, I thought I'd ride a bit farther for the day. At about 60 miles there was a State Park (with no camping) right next to a Good Sam campground where I planned to stay. However, I got tqalking with the Ranger and he said there was a free campground about 5 miles ahead, mostly downhill. Since free sounded good, I took off. In this case free was not better--all the camp sites were gravel! Remember that tailwind? If I turned around, I'd be bucking a headwind, mostly uphill. Figuring there would be something else up the road, I continued on. The picture with this entry is of Lake Wallula, about 15 miles upriver from McNary Dam. I was heading right into those storm clouds. I hit Hwy 12 at about mile 80 and still no place to stay. Finally, at 85 miles I saw a sign for an RV park. It was down a very steep, gravel road that I'm going to have to walk up tomorrow, but I got my tent set up before the rain hit. Pierce's Green Valley--$10 for tents with a power outlet. The 85 miles is a personal best for me--by 13 miles! Luckily, I only have 24 miles to Walla Walla tomorrow and then I'll take a one (maybe two) day break.
Sent from my magic box