Day 10 - McKenzie Bridge to Sisters

Location

Woke up early in McKenzie Bridge to climb Mckenzie Pass. None of us was too sure what to expect, but all assumed it would destroy us. Coming out of McKenzie Bridge was a slight decent before the climb. On our way up, maneuvered our bikes around the snow gate. The pass is being re-paved this summer, so remains closed to traffic. This made for an awesome ride, as we didn't have to fight traffic on our way up or down. The climb itself wasn't terrible, basically just a ton of switchbacks up a mountain. As the altitude increased, the shadowed areas started harboring snow. As we neared the top, 10-20 foot snow drifts were on either side of the road. It was amazing riding a path plowed through such deep snow, all while wearing short sleeves and baking in the sun.

At the top of the pass, there lies a 50 square-mile lava rock field. Truly spectacular. An observation tower built of lava rock provides for a guided view of the surrounding peaks. View holes in the side of the tower point to each peak. Sean and I spent 15 minutes or so trying to read the heavily worn inscription and then headed for our bikes. Another cyclist rode up and we spent a few minutes chatting. She quickly informed us that she had seen a bear on the way up. If only we were a bit slower...

The decent into Sisters was awesome. Spectacular views, and a car-free road. Sisters itself was a very touristy town, something I had not expected. A bit of time at the library to check the weather and internet-world and we headed for the grocery store. On our way across town, Cam and I ran into a guy on a bike who quickly struck up a conversation on bike touring. He had recently down the Southern Tier, followed by a Pacific Crest hike. Very cool stuff.

Outside the grocery store, a nice man walked up and asked us if we were staying at his place that night. After a moment of confusion, he explained that he was Jim, of Jim and Patti on the ACA cycling maps. We agreed to swing by after groceries (excellent decision on our part).

Immediately after arriving at Jim and Patti's, we were amazed at their hospitality. Showers and laundry were offered as we set our tents up next to a beautiful pond. Discussion with proved to be very entertaining. He and Patti had recently done a multi-month trip around Peru and the surrounding regions. The pan-flute music playing throughout the house added to his story. After showering and continued discussion, we took to our tents for the night and enjoyed the amazing view from Jim and Patti's ranch.