Distance: 23.2 mi, Climbed: 1,909 ft
Completed: 394.1 mi, 23,362 ft
What a wonderful way to begin the morning—Rich and I had breakfast at the Victorian Loft B&B, sharing stories with owner Peggy and fellow guests Jim and Ann from New Hampshire. The inn overlooks the Susquehanna River, and for a little while, everything felt calm, easy, and unhurried.
Then came the ride.
Today’s twenty-three miles packed in as much climbing as yesterday’s thirty, including 1,200 feet in the first five miles just to get up the mountain. It was a tough opening—and it didn’t let up much from there. Thankfully, we were able to take some breaks along the side of the road to break up the climb.
Unlike yesterday, this wasn’t a scenic ride. Much of it followed small highways, with steady traffic and fewer of the quiet, peaceful stretches we’ve come to appreciate.
But that’s part of the journey—not every day is about the views. Some are about putting your head down, doing the work, and earning every mile.
