Day 21 Lusk, WY-Hot Springs, SD

Miles:  93.52           Terrain: Wide open spaces and three hills
Depart:   6:10 AM      Arrive:  2:09 PM
Riding time: 6:28:49
Average Riding Speed: 14.4

            Today’s GarminDownload and Map (for cycling data junkies!) 

Today's Ride

It was more wide open spaces today as we finished our crossing of Wyoming and moved into our forth state, South Dakota.  For me, the arrival at the Welcome to South Dakota sign meant that I have now set foot in all 50 states.  Maybe the next 50 state goal will be to ride a bike in each state as well.

The first 40 miles today were essentially downhill.  At mile 46 we turned into the wind as we pushed against it to conquer a 2-4% grade, eight mile uphill.  After entering South Dakota we worked our way to Edgemont for our second sag stop at a gas station store.  There was another group of about 15-20 bike riders there—these riding the motorized kind.  The group of German tourists had arrived several weeks earlier in Denver and had made a big circle around the Mountain West area.  They were working their way toward Denver to end their cycling adventure.  Ours is now four weeks and one day from the end.

After leaving Edgemont we each pushed our way up a four mile, 4-8% grade hill.  Five miles from the end of our 93 mile route was another steep hill…this one only a mile long.  And then it was a fast downhill to Hot Springs,SD to end the day’s ride.

Tomorrow we have only 75 miles to cover, but 5,000 feet of climbing, and many stops to make—Wind Cave National Park where we hope to see some bison, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and finally Mount Rushmore!