May 9, 2024 to Cottonwood, AZ

 Words and photographs can't describe or do justice to the scale and beauty of the Arizona high country.   It's simply beautiful.   The pines and views are fantastic.    

That said, today was easiest day so far.   Only one climb of only around 2500 feet, yes it lasted about 8.5 miles.  Total climb today was right at 2800.   BUT.. we got to descend about 4600.   The same hairpin corners uphill, we got to do on pretty much one loooong downhill.   On the brakes the whole way, between 25-32 mph.   Uncountable corners, and road surface was spotty.   Very little traffic, and no 🚛 trucks.  


these pictures are of down low where we started.  Later pictures are from up high 


They really mean it when they talk about grades and curves.
We topped out on Mingus mountain at 7100 feet, before rocking the descent into the very cool town of Jerome, lunch at the famous Haunted Hamburger restaurant.   


the bacon cheeseburger and milkshake super hit the spot.   Funny, I have been eating cheeseburgers on this trip, not so much back in EP     .  This place is perched on the side of the mountain.    Jerome used to be a big copper mining town, and now hosts many unique shops, arts, restaurants and bars .   Just finished my nap as I'm still trying to get into biking shape.   Headed to dinner next door at the Black Bear Diner.   Then need to figure out how to reset my sports watch.   It used to hold a charge for 2.5 weeks, it's now dieing after 5 hours.

Oh well, technology....
Ended up the day at 44 miles, and had a nice leisurely lunch with Rich, Marie, and Jeff.   First time on tour I haven't felt a bit rushed.   
Off to dinner now, work on/ cuss at watch, then hope for good sleep.  Tomorrow is supposed to be challenging with climbing again .
Late evening update:  Black Bear diner is a chain of 50? restaurants.   Excellent food, large portions.   My watch is dead.  One of the dials just spins, toast.    Ordered one to be shipped to Santa Fe a week from now .    Only thing I have now is bike computer to tell me distance for turn by turn navigation.  
Today total distance 44 miles 

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