Bicycle Touring and why I find disfavor with that term.

According to Wikipedia, bicycle touring means self-contained cycling trips for pleasure, adventure and autonomy rather than sport, commuting or exercise. Touring can range from single to multi-day trips, even years. Tours may be planned by the participant or organized by a holiday business, a club, or a charity as a fund-raising venture.

There are various types and forms of bicycle touring. It comes in all shapes and sizes. There are countless ways to conduct a bicycle tour...and countless places to explore. But this post is not about bicycle touring. I don't want to talk about it. Instead, I want to explain why I dislike the term "bicycle touring." Before I begin, I want to make it clear that I will use and often do use that term. That is because it is the official term for what I do and everyone is familiar with it. Even Darren Alf, the guy from bicycletouringpro.com uses it quite often, almost too often, to the point of annoyance. I am a member of numerous bicycle touring groups on Facebook that don't think twice about using the term. It is known universally and therefore, I will use it to describe my ventures, but that doesn't mean I approve of it or take a liking to it.

So, why exactly is it that I dislike the term "bicycle touring?" It isn't the bicycling part of it. Of course I adore bicycling to its very core. It's not that. It's the "touring" part. Why must a bicycle traveler be known as a tourist? A tourist to me is an outsider exploring new lands. You might think, well that seems about right. Okay, but on a bicycle, you try to avoid those tourist traps and touristy things. Most tourists arrive in a car, bus, plane, train, bus, or some other mode of transportation that is not by foot or bicycle. Backpacking is not refereed to as "backpack touring." But if we are going to be technical, that is kind of what it is. Yes, backpackers travel via more wilderness an bicyclists travel through more towns generally speaking, but aren't we all just explorers at heart? I don't want to be known as a tourist, someone who enjoys holidays and vacations. It may be a vacation, but it's a different kind of vacation, it's my kind of vacation...the kind of exploration and new experiences and new places.

In today's day and age, most people will call their vacations and holidays "adventures." That is an overused term and I hope to write more of this later in a different post. But a bicycle traveler who experiences all the terrain and features and weather of a land, truly experiences adventure because there is more risk, danger and unknown faculties involved.

Take the following terms to describe what I do, to describe the act of traveling by bicycle in new lands:

journey
adventure
trek
jaunt
voyage
odyssey
trip
venture
exploration
quest
discovery

I implore you to think of these terms rather than "touring." I don't describe myself as a "cyclist." I am a person on a bike...an ordinary person who yearns for adventure around the next bend.

Bicycling is rounding out perfect circles...one pedal stroke after another. It is in the journey where we find adventure. The destination is an added benefit. If all we cared about was the destination, we would fly, drive or use another faster mode of transport. We live in an age of rush, rush, rush...and age of fast cars and hurry. We want to get to places as quickly as possible. Not so with bicycle travelers. We take our time. We enjoy our time.

A tourist to me is someone who stops and smells the roses before their tour bus beckons. They always seem to be on a timeline, governed by the clock. Bicycle travelers go with the flow. We are masters of adventure and masters of easy-flow experiences.

As I set about exploring this vast country, I often think about Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery. They weren't tourists; they were adventurers and explorers. A tour usually happens in places where many have tread before. Many a bicycle traveler venture into unknown territory, at least unknown to them. They encounter rough terrain, remote deserts and mountains, vast plains, loneliness, deep valleys, national parks and magnificent views, dangerous traffic and unknown corners...and through it all, we love it. This is why we do it. This is why we explore. Upon return, we tell stories, write blogs and books, share pictures and dream and plan for the next bicycle odyssey. This is why we explore, why we go on quests, why we venture out our front door, why we voyage across continents, why we trek across deserts and mountains, why we journey through deep ravines, why we take small jaunts and meet new people and visit new destinations, and this is why we take on our adventures with gusto. Bring it on. There was a reason Home wrote The Odyssey rather than The Tour.

Salem to Seattle 2006 - a jaunt to visit my brother

 The following is my journal of my short bicycle trip I took from Salem, Oregon to Seattle, Washington in May 2006 to visit my older brother who was living and working in the city at the time. The journal is as it was written ten years ago, so please forgive the grammar and voice. Thank you and enjoy.

Wednesday, May 10, 2006 (Salem, Oregon to Champoeg State Park, 30.55 miles)
I woke up at 6:30 thinking it was 9:30 due to my jet lag. I am at Champoeg at the beginning of another trip. The sun is shining and the mosquitoes are about looking for lunch on my legs. I finished a sandwich Mom made for me. It was good. Today was hard and I am sore. I fear for tomorrow when I must ride twice the distance or more as I did today. LORD please take away my dizziness and ease my sores and provide the strength I pray! I took a shower and am refreshed. I forgot to pack my aqua socks though. I pray that I will arrive to see Seth on time and in good health and condition. This is a nice park. My computer works fine and my bike is in seemingly good condition. It squeaks though when it wobbles. For some reason I don't feel as safe or secure as I did during my last trip. I do have better weather now and had a better start. Maybe it's because I've only been planning this trip for less than a year. Maybe it's because I've been more dizzy lately or I've forgotten something - who knows. I think I'll read my book, plan for tomorrow and go to sleep. Perhaps I'll stretch and do some pushups. I think it's time for a picture.

Thursday, May 11, 2006 (Champoeg to Hudson-Parcher Park, 90 miles)
Wow, what a day. I woke up at 2:00am to some screaming (sounds like kids or a war party of Indiana banshees) - crazy. I finally got up at 5:45am and started riding at 6. I had a lot of ground to cover today. I rode into Newberg only to pass right through. Straight out of Newberg were about 10 miles worth of hills, then some downhills where I coasted at 30mph. They don't call it Hillsboro for nothing. I arrived in Hillsboro (30 miles from Champoeg) and met a guy at McDonalds. He used to be a biker himself. He asked me where I was going, and before he left he advised me to beware of Cornelius Pass, take Newberry Rd. instead to get to Hwy 30. Arriving in North Plains, I called home. Dad told me of a county park outside of Rainer. I saw two signs coming out of North Plains saying "To Scappoose Hwy 30 Use Cornelius Pass." I finally came to NW Cornelius Pass Road. It ran perpendicular to my road. There were many large house/warehouses, etc. I asked in a bike shop the way to Hwy 30. They said head north on Cornelius Pass. I went North, but it seemed like the wrong way. I finally came to "Entering Multnomah County." I knew then that this was the right way. There was no gravel road like the map indicated. Cornelius Pass was the busiest, most dangerous road I've ever been on. I-5 would probably be safer. I had to walk at times just to avoid becoming roadkill. While walking uphill, two viscous dogs across the road saw me, looking at cars in order to cross. The road was just too busy. I panicked and quickly hopped on my bike and pedaled to avoid becoming dog meat. This was a scary road. I was quite relieved when I came to Hwy 30 at last. I had a huge bike lane to myself!!

I came to Scappoose. I saw an Ixtapa there. I stopped at a Taco Bell and realized how sunburned I was. My ears were burnt to a crisp. I had no hair this time to cover them! My arms and face as well and the small of my back where my shirt popped up. On my way I saw six deer bounding on a hillside and a dead fish on the side of the road. I went through Warren, cam to St. Helens, went by Columbia City and by the time I arrived in Deer Island, I did not have much daylight left. My butt was mega sore and my right knee was really hurting. Thirteen miles to Rainer. Six miles later I came to Goble and then passed by Prescott. By this time, it was dark and I could not see a thing. I turned my lights and flashers on. I walked most of the way to Rainer. The city lights were cool and the bridge. I asked where the park was (up a huge hill outside of town on Larson Road). I walked up the hill, about an hour, saw an opossum or something and came to the park at 10:30pm. I set up camp and went to bed at 11:30pm. I rode about 90 miles today!

Friday, May 12, 2006 (Hudson-Parcher to Seaquest State Park, 24 miles)
I took it easy this morning. I decided to slowly pack up my gear and head out. I had hot chocolate  and oatmeal (really thick) with a guy named Burt. He was the only other camper I saw there. We talked a little bit before I departed. Burt needs prayer. He said he was living with a girl before she started on METH. Her brother and nephew jumped Burt and beat the crap out of him. He went to the hospital, got stitches, tore some tendons. Wasn't sure why. He never touched the girl. Her mother thought he was the best guy she's been with. I told Burt I majored in General Ministries at Simpson. He said, "Well that's good - something for people to believe in. Lots and lots of people out there - lots of soulless people. I suppose I'm lost, not soulless though."

After that I soon left Burt. I went down the hill into Rainer (coasted at 35mph). I crossed the Columbia River - cool bridge. Went into Longview and Kelso. Had a hard time finding Hwy 411 - a kind of confusing area. Went North on 411 - Huge rolling hills for 10 miles. Made it to Castle Rock, couldn't find the road to Vader so I turned on 504 to Seaquest State Park. Lots of hills. I was hurting - very sore. Rained a little on me. I made it to Seaquest (beautiful park) and Mount S. Helens visitor center - great views of the volcano and surrounding area. I set up camp before a park ranger informed me I was in a utility site. I moved to a cheaper site. I put some pants on - feels good to wear pants! Saw some cool looking goats today!

Saturday, May 13, 2006 (Sequest State Park)
I woke up feeling terrible. A bad headache and cramps/kinks everywhere. Hard to sleep - very uncomfortable. Well I got up and spent the day at the park and the Mount St. Helens visitor center across the highway. I feel a little dizzy today. I pray to God that it passes. He is my strength when I feel weak. My calves are hard as rock. My muscles need to rest. There is no shower here at the park - poopy. I snapped some pics of Mount Saint Helens and hiked around Silver Lake while eating a hot dog from the snack shop or thingy. I took a look around in the visitor center. I am fascinated with Lewis and Clark and wonder what they thought when they traveled through this area. That must've been an awesome awe-inspiring expedition. Perhaps one day I will follow their trail.

On the road I sing praise songs/camp songs to keep me going and to encourage me. I often wonder what drives me and makes me do what I do.

A guy asked me where I came from and a now going. He then offered me a margarita.

Some people at the park are playing bocce ball!

Sunday, May 14, 2006 (Seqquest to Millersylvania State Park, 60 miles)
Mother's Day! I sure could've used a pillow last night. I left Seaquest on 504 and turned onto 505. I heard a gun shot. Someone along the road scared a bear off for me. There was a bear on the road just ahead of me around the corner. He tried to take a picture but failed. I got to see some great views of Mt. Saint Helens and Mt. Rainer! A small dog chased me today. It didn't last long, but he sure ran like there was no tomorrow!! I passed Lewis and Clark State Park and called home at 12:00 in Mary's Corner - busy. I called again in Chehalis - busy. I finally got through in Centrailia. I got lost in Centrailia - not sure how to get out. With some help from Dad I finally made it out and on my way. The wind is what'll kill you. It has been against me all the way North! I had some trouble finding Millersylvania but finally got there. They had showers but they were ice cold. One phone didn't work, called on a cell phone of the park host, another pay phone didn't work. I contemplated going home after Seattle. The sun is a killer. My knee hurts bad and my saddle sores are worsening. My left calf is really tight.

I find it funny that all the cows, horses, goats, llamas, etc...look up from eating grass and just stare at me. Who can blame them eh? I'm a sight to see. Stupid big animals!

Happy Mother's Day Mom!!

Monday, May 15, 2006 (Millersylvania to Belfair State Park, 61 miles)
What I am doing is just brutal! Brutal I say!

**Well this is where I stopped keeping my journal. From Millersylvania, I rode 61 miles through country and city to Belfair State Park. Seattle was within my grasp.**

Tuesday, May 16, 2006 (Belfair to Seattle, Washington, 37 miles)
**From Belfair, I rode to the Bremerton-Seattle ferry where my brother met me on the Seattle side with his bike. After a brief reunion I followed his lead through the city to his small house he shared with his girlfriend Erin.**

Wednesday, May 17, 2006 (Seattle, Washington)
**Today was a day of rest as I decided what to do next. Was I to go ahead with my original plan which was to return by bicycling down the coast home or take the train back because of my injured knee? In the end, after my brother and Erin helped convince me, I decided to take the train back. It wasn't what I wanted to do, but thought it was the wisest choice given my current injuries. I had just started out too hard, too fast. So today, my brother took me to Green Lake and some other sites around Seattle before I left the next day. It was a good day!**

Thursday, May 18, 2006 (Seattle to Salem via AMTRAK)
**My brother helped with the logistics of getting my bike aboard the Amtrack train. Luckily I was able to just roll my bike on board rather than box it up! Thank goodness. I said my goodbyes and left for Salem. My short adventure was over. When I arrived home at the train station, I was a little turned around, but eventually made my bike ride back home a success.**

*Note: The following pictures were taken with a disposable camera. Please excuse the quality.

Oregon Coast & Mountains - 2005 Solo Adventure

The following is my journal from my solo bicycle adventure I took in May 2005 down the Oregon Coast and up through the mountains of central Oregon. The journal is as I wrote it eleven years ago, so please forgive the grammar and voice. This is my first solo adventure.


Thursday, May 5, 2005 (Salem, Oregon to Newport to South Beach State Park, 14 miles)
Today started off rocky when my Dad woke me up at 7:00am. I had a bad headache. After finishing my packing, Dad and I drove to Newport where I would begin my adventure. We ate lunch at Arby's and I was dizzy from anxiety. We unloaded my bike and gear and it was HEAVY! I thought I was gonna die! Dad was gonna meet me at South Beach State Park two miles away. However, he forgot about the huge bridge, so I had to walk the whole freakin' long bridge. At South Beach, Dad left me. I decided to try and ride to Beachside State Park, 17 miles away. Seven miles later, I felt dizzy and stopped at Huckleberry Hill. I laid down and felt like Mega-CRAP. I felt like I was gonna puke. Hours later, a car pulled up to check the mail. Someone who looked like Taffy Rabb, a family friend, got out and I used her phone to call Mom - not at church, talked to Taffy, called Dad!! A little while later I did throw up - twice - my curly fries. It was gross. I walked/rode my bike back to South Beach. A guy later offered to help, but I was good. I called home at South Beach and Mom said I'd be fine. I questioned why I'm doing this trip. I prayed and God answered and I got better. I pitched my tent and slept!

Friday, May 6, 2005 (South Beach to Carl G. Washburne State Park, 30 miles)
5:15am. I hear my tent rustle. Am I being attacked? I try to go back to bed. I hear it again. I look through the window and see something move. I notice my chicken bag missing. I open the tent cautiously and look to the right. I see a racoon eating my chicken. He turns around into attack mode, while I find my weapon of choice - a camera! I turn my phaser to stun (flash). I scared the coon and he deserved it for eating my breakfast! I couldn't get back to sleep so I packed up and left South Beach. Traveling south on Highway 101 I stopped at Lost Creek - cool place - took pictures. Between towns there are a lot of woodcarving places.

It began to rain on me some today. Great way to start my trip! I stopped frequently at viewpoints and take pictures! I stopped in Yachats to buy some food after Waldport. Traveled past Cape Perpetua and decided to go on to Carl Washburne State Park. Crossed over from Lincoln County to Lane County. Stopped at Alsea Bay - a beautiful place. The ocean is amazing. It never ceases to amaze me! At Carl Washburne State Park, I quickly pitched my tent and then took a shower. It felt good! I ate a bagel, then took a nap, at 3:00pm, then it was dark. I thought about lots while lying down.

Passed Seal Rocks, Devil's Churn and other chasms. The crashing waves were awesome.

Saturday, May 7, 2005 (Carl G. Washburne to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, 50 miles)
I got up around 7 (16 hours of sleep - wow). I packed up after I paid the ranger lady and left about 8:00. I rode to Heceta Head and rode down to the beach cove. I didn't hike up to the lighthouse. I took some pictures and went back up. I rode over the bridge and went in the road and took a pic of the Cape Creek Tunnel. The tunnel was scary. The thundering of the cars - but it was fun. I stopped at several viewpoints. I have never seen so much of the ocean all at once - amazing. Panoramic. I stopped at the Sea Lion Caves - bought a postcard and a keychain. The caves cost $8.00 which is retarded. Needless to say I didn't go. But it was an awesome place. I rode into Florence and called home. I bought a foot long sub and ate at Taco Bell. Went to a bike shop - pumped up my tires and checked the pressure. Found a post office - sent my postcard. Rode through Glenada and stopped at Jesse Honeyman State Park at 2:00. I decided to move on. The road moved away from the ocean. A bunch of nothing for miles. Passed into Douglas County - Oregon Dunes - Dunes City - pretty cool place! Stopped at Oregon Dunes overlook - awesome! Went up huge hill - tired! Went down huge hill - relief! Rode though Gardiner, a small town. Rode through Reedsport - cool town. Rode into Winchester Bay - Rain and wind! I stopped at Windy Cove/Salmon off Route - wind and rain - right on bay, too open and windy. Rode up long hill to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. I saw Robert Mitchell here at the hiker/biker site, a friend from college. I stayed with him. It's still raining. Put up tent in record-time! Ate sub and bagel and apple! 50 miles today at least. An eventful day! Goodnight - 9:12pm.

Sunday, May 8, 2005 (Umpqua Lighthouse to Sunset Bay State Park, 40 miles)
As I sit here in Sunset Bay listening to a family nearby playing games, I wish my own family could be here! As I eat my bagel, I thank God for the glimpses of blue and the small amounts of sunshine. First night without rain. My tent is laid out trying to dry itself. Today was a very frustrating day!! It started by going uphill. Bidding farewell to Robert (he was heading north, me south) after we prayed, I was on my way. After passing into Coos County I came to Lakeside. I had no trouble this morning despite the cold and drizzle. I finally came to Oregon's Bay Area. Going across a huge bridge, I entered North Bend. At the visitor's center, the lady told me about the bike route and two clipper ships in the bay - last day here. I entered Coos Bay and saw the two ships - very cool! After some time I found the road connecting Coos Bay and the bike route - after calling hoe - no answer - busy signal. Half way up Ocean Blvd. my chain quit and caught. An hour later I got it uncaught, but it was still messed up. Walking/riding to the highway, I was mad. Along the highway I was cursing and praying for my bike. I entered Charleston. A nice old lady I met at the visitor's center. I called home for the fifth time today - BUSY! Dang it! More frustration! After deciding what to do, I rode 5 miles out of the way to Sunset Bay - called home!! Happy Mother's Day! Went down the road several miles to Simpson Reef - 100s of sea lions. Bike chain still screwed - please pray! My chain quit on the uphill - unsympathetic cars drove on by. I was so mad and frustrated today.

Monday, May 9, 2005 (Sunset Bay to North Bend - Motel 6, 25 miles)
Today was sucky! I don't know how else to describe it. I woke up to lots of rain! I had to get to a bike shop to fix my dumb bike. The closest one was 14 miles north in North Bend. In the downpour I rode to North Bend. I felt like I was riding in the ocean! At Sunset Bay, calling Dad, trying to know what to do, a lady saw my miserable self and knocked on the phone booth. I turned around, opened it and she gave me some hot chai tea and a cookie!! In North Bend I found the bike shop - replaced the rear chain bracket thing, the old one was busted. He told me of a motel to stay in. so I headed down to Motel 6 on 101 - shower, got dry, dried tent, etc...slept in nice bed!! Watched movies!

Tuesday, May 10, 2005 (North Bend to Bullards Beach State Park, 40 miles)
Today was a mega-sucky day! I left the warm motel and headed back to Charleston. Called Dad. Today was worse than yesterday. The rain never stopped. 2-4 inches of rain - the most rain in Oregon at the time - and I was in the center of it all! My gloves were like sponges. I couldn't feel my toes or my whole hands. I needed to go to Bandon - 27 miles away. So that's what I did. 27 miles in a huge downpour - everything wet - shivering - could barely see - felt delusional - seemed to hallucinate. I thought Seven Devil's Road would never end. Now I know why they call it Seven Devils. A truck zoomed by me and splashed me - a huge tidal wave coming over me. Sorry God, change my attitude. You are there protecting me. I know it. My life isn't over yet. Forgive me of my despair and frustration! Please! Shortly after I arrived in Bandon, the rain held up. What are the odds. I looked for a motel or hostel - Dad suggested a yurt. I finally decided to ride back a mile to Bullards Beach State Park. That was a nice park except for one thing - death defying mosquitoes. Huge bugs everywhere - I thought I was gonna get malaria! I dried some of my things and took a shower!

Wednesday, May 11, 2005 (Bullards Beach to Humbug Mountain State Park, 40 miles)
The LORD is good. Beautiful day! The storm halted for a time. Got sun burnt! Ouch! I rode through some small communities today. Langlois - stopped off at the library - nice little town. Denmark - where is it? Here is a sign but no town! Sixes - small town and rode on by. Port Orford - nice views of the ocean here! Called Dad. I made it to Humbug Mountain. Windy place. Set up tent - blew across camp. A guy with his dog helped me hold it down while I staked it! Set up camp and went poop. Found my way to trailhead - hiked Humbug Mountain - 3 miles straight up with switch backs - brought back memories. Took hours - nice view at the summit, well not really. I know why it's called Humbug Mountain! A small glimpse of the ocean behind the tree line. I climbed down - legs are SORE! At camp I walked to the beach and saw an otter trying to swim.

Thursday, May 12, 2005 (Humbug Mountain to Harris Beach State Park, 50 miles)
What a long day! 50-60 miles today. Nice weather for a change. Started at 8:00 - arrived in campground at 4:00pm. Today was all about hills hills hills! Huge hills! Huge uphills - downhills - winding hills - sore butt hills!! My legs and bum are sore!! Tons of ocean views today. I thought I'd never make it to Harris Beach - 2 miles north of Brookings. Well, I'm here. Only one main town on the way - and that was Gold Beach. I'm even more sun burnt now. The shower tonight was a bit rough. Tomorrow I head for Cali - LORD willing.

Friday, May 13, 2005 (Harris Beach to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, 30 miles)
I made it passed Brookings into California! Called home at Smith River. I made it finally to my turning point - Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Only $3.00 for a hiker/biker site! The phone's out of order and the visitor's center is closed. I went for a walk down a nature trail. The redwoods are giant trees man! I feel so small next to them. Ate some food and went to bed to rest muscles.

Saturday, May 14, 2005 (Jedediah Smith to Crescent City & back to Jedediah Smith, 20 miles)
Even though I haven't seen a lot of the redwoods, I've seen enough to know how big my God is! I spent most of the day in Crescent City doing laundry, eating, calling, etc... It was a 20 mile round trip up hills. This was supposed to be my rest day. Oh well. I asked God for strength. Hopefully I won't have a bloody nose tonight like the last two nights! I called before laundry again - not enough credit? As I passed the theater, was tempted to see Kingdom of Heaven, but got to the task at hand.

I'm sitting on the bank of Smith River. What an awesome river - like something out of a movie - a western or a medieval movie. It's pretty awesome. I decided to wade in the water some - cold but it felt oh so good. Very cold - but nice!! Saw a deer - one time without my camera!

Sunday, May 15, 2005 (Jedediah Smith to Valley of the Rouge State Park, 100 miles)
I rode at least 100 miles today. I began at 8:00am. - arrived at 9:30pm. Three counties, 11 towns, uphills, downhills, rain and shine. I left the Redwoods - came to Panther Flat, then Grassy Flat (closed), finally to Patrick Creek - phone still did not work. I followed the mountain highway along Smith River. Stopped at a rest area to eat lunch. Crossed a long tunnel and came back to Oregon. I entered O'Brien...8 miles of flatness to Cave Junction. I sent a postcard and had something at Dairy Queen. I rode 30 miles to Grants Pass. I got confused on which way to go. I ended up in Rouge River. Went six miles in the wrong direction to Gold Hill. Finally got good directions and rode 6-8 miles in the dark to Valley of the Rogue State Park - followed the river - a hidden park, very hard to find. There were a few very small street signs directing me to the park. I saw a deer bounding along the railroad tracks while I was riding along, saw another deer staring at me. Took a picture of him. Set up tent in the dark quietly by an RV - took a shower, went to bed.

Monday, May 16, 2005 (Valley of the Rouge to Joseph H. Stewart State Park, 40 miles)
Today I headed NE and came back to Gold Hill - passed Sams Valley. I rode many miles to Shady Cove where I ate lunch and waited for the rain to stop. I rode to Lost Creek Reservoir - huge hill! It started to pour rain. CRAP. Not again. I was unprepared this time - everything got soaked. There was a 6% downgrade for a mile and rode to Stewart State Park. Found bathroom, put bike in bathroom - took a shower, dried off. Finally - sun - then rain - then sun - then rain - saw a rainbow. This is Oregon. Got tent up, looked at lake, huge bug in tent - it fell into my trap - dead bug! Rain again - fell asleep to the rain on my tent.

Oh, and a dog chased me today - of course. No surprise there.

Tuesday, May 17, 2005 (Joseph Stewart State Park, 00.00 miles)
Woke up with a bad headache. I stayed here at the state park another day. Rain on and off. Took a shower to keep warm! It was oh so cold. Walked the 2.3 mile trail along the lake to the marina and back.

Wednesday, May 18, 2005 (Joseph Stewart to Diamond Lake, 46 miles)
Today was cold, wet and miserable. Everything was soaked. And I mean everything! It rained all day long. I was freezing and it was all uphill - practically all 46 miles. It took me forever to get to Diamond Lake. Nice views of the mountains though. My body is numb - entire body. I put up my tent and the tent, inside and out is wet - everything is wet! Bathrooms are locked and no showers. I went to bed shivering! Saw lots of snow here and on my way - over 5000 feet in elevation. My breath was almost pure white - COLD!!


Thursday, May 19, 2005 (Diamond Lake, 00.00 miles)
Today I relaxed at Diamond Lake despite the intense cold. I am freezing. Walked 3 miles to the store and back to keep warm. I talked with Dad. It warmed up - but still cold. Rain - shine - rain - shine - can't make up its mind.

Friday, May 20, 2005 (Diamond Lake to Rosland Campground near La Pine, 70 miles)
Man, today I thought I was in Never Never Land - clouds, rain, sun, snow, mountains, desert, wind, hail, vultures," Kamikazi Bugs" I got everything. Kamikazi bugs were these nasty little bugs that kept flying into me as I rode along. I would slap them on my legs and body... Out of Diamond Lake I hit Cascade Summit (5,925 feet) From there I descended at least a 1000!! The route I wanted to take didn't happen - a scenic mountain road that would ascend to over 7,000 feet and it just opened 3 days ago - so there would be snow and cold temps. I rode about 70 miles today to La Pine - I'm at Rosland Campground. A small little place. Cheap! ($2.00/night)

Saturday, May 21, 2005 (Rosland Campground, 10 miles)
Today I relaxed at Rosland Campground. Went to Dairy Queen, called home, fixed toe clips, did a workout. I need to go to a bike shop tomorrow in Bend. Weather today was nice - hot in my tent though. But I'll take it! The camp host is a very nice man!

Sunday, May 22, 2005 (Rosland to Bend to Tumalo State Park to Sisters, 50 miles)
I woke up early today - cold!! 5:00am. I laid in bed for about 1.5 hours and then got ready - an early start. I left about 7:00am - maybe a bit earlier. The day slowly warmed up - a change for me!! It was cold at times. I got to Bend at 9:30am - 30 miles. What a crazy city! Hard to find stuff. Confusing. Found a bike shop barely. I decided to move on to Tumalo State Park to meet Mom and Dad who were driving out from Salem. What an awesome view of the mountains - Three Sisters! Mom and Dad arrived - with Kissi dog!! She was excited to see me. Dad rode with me to Sisters - had ice cream and met Mom at the Best Western. There was a huge headwind against us the entire way! Sorry Dad, who was normally my navigator back home. Today was awesomely gorgeous! Sun came out finally! Horray! We had pizza and Dad and I sat in the hot tub - AWW, feels good on my muscles! So good. Slept good in a bed! Slept with dog!

Monday, May 23, 2005 (Sisters to Jack Creek, 20 miles)
Woke up with another bad headache - no fun! Had an awesome breakfast in the motel! We all packed up and Dad and I rode out to Jack Creek - 20 miles or so - an amazing day - best day yet. Can't believe how nice and warm it is - a bit cool, but a whole lot better than what I was used to earlier in the trip. We met Mom at Jack Creek and ate some lunch. Mom and Dad and Kissi got ready to leave and left me at Jack Creek. It has a different look to it - but still the same. Hiked to the headwaters and around - lots of the forest has been burned and trees are down. Clouds look like a painting - a picture - what an amazing God we serve!! It's a bit chilly here, but paradise to what lies behind me! Thank you LORD!! The pink clouds and sky is awesome. The islands are really cool - a good place to film a movie! I saw 4 deer in my campsite tonight. I saw them bound away, their white tails sticking up in the air. God is good! Ouch, a mosquito! Made a fire! The first of the trip - "With this, I make fire!"

Tuesday, May 24, 2005 (Jack Creek, 00.00 miles)
I woke up to a woodpecker! I am cold this morning but it will warm up - the sun/Son is shining!! Creatures invaded my camp last night! I would move and make a noise, then I would here footsteps or hooves scurry away. What a gorgeous day God has created for me! I hiked down to the headwaters again, climbed the hill, looked at the mountains, walked down the road, did a lot of walking...a nice change to life in the saddle. I explored the islands some more too. Tonight I built a N.I.C.E. fire (Nuclear, Insane, Chaotic and Explosive)! That's how fires should be. I burned everything in sight - all the stuff I had and then some. This was my last night here. The trees were scared and so was my hair! Good night and Delicious Dreams!!

Wednesday, May 25, 2005 (Jack Creek to Detroit Lake State Park, 55 miles)
As I sit here looking out at Detroit Lake and the mountains beyond, I think about the day. Wow - God is so good! I got a late start this morning, leaving Jack Creek just before 9:00. I was tired from the previous eventful day. All that relaxing did me in. I saw two more deer this morning on my way to the headwaters to fill my water bottles A seven mile uphill was waiting for me just out of Jack Creek. At 11:20am I made it to Santiam Pass (4815 feet). From there I descended at least 3000 feet. Both Hwy 20 and 22 have lots of construction and road/bridge work on them. At times the wind would push me backwards. I saw great views of Black Butte, Mt. Washington, Mt. Jefferson and 3-toed Jack - oops, I mean Three Fingered Jack!! The day was breezy and hot! Got to Detroit at 2:00 - about 55 miles today! Chipmunks are all around me - at least 4 or 5 chasing each other, climbing on my bike and panniers - picnic table, practically on my lap - obviously not afraid of e - yet! One just licked where Kissi licks - they're making funny noises - I'm being attacked and invaded it seems. My lower, right leg is throbbing with pain. Took a shower - feel better!

Thursday, May 26, 2005 (Detroit Lake to Silver Falls State Park, 50 miles)
This morning I was invaded, not by chipmunks, but by ducks - at least 4. They came in from the water front. They wanted my bagel I think. I had to fight them off. I left Detroit Lake at 8:20am. Two miles later, at Detroit Dam,  I felt extremely dizzy - I couldn't ride anymore - could barely walk in a straight line. Well, I managed to get to a cutoff to lay down behind a guardrail for over an hour, two maybe. I was praying! I took pills, drank water. I finally got up, ate some frosted animal cookies and felt better and rode on. At about 11:30 I made it to Gates where I called Dad to explain what happened - there was no phone at the rest area (5 miles from where I laid). In Mill City I got a fat ice cream cone and smothered myself with sunscreen. This was by far my hottest day out! - in the 90s or more! Still got sunburnt - ha! I made it to Sublimity at 2:00. Silver Falls was 12 miles from there. At 4:30 I made it to Silver Falls at last - longest 12 miles of my life! My Dad had mentioned over the phone it was all down hill to Silver Falls. I'm not sure if he was playing a cruel joke or was just ignorant of geography. But it was all uphill - the entire way!! There were some rolling hills - and all this in the scorching heat - no shade - had to pee the whole time - had a headache and no cold water - water bottles all had hot water in them. I almost threw up from dehydration and exhaustion! I could barely walk my bike, let alone ride it.

I saw half a deer today.

The last two miles were straight down - took seconds. I went less than 6mph the whole time up! I was drenched with sweat - my whole body was liquid! I would never have thought when I began this trip that I would complain about the heat! Well, God is good - I made it, got water, took a shower and ate food! Feel much much much better - Praise the LORD! My bed is awaiting.

Hey, another touring cyclist pulled into the site next to mine! Looks like he has a similar tent - different but pretty similar. His name is Michael, from Mcminville. He's getting ready for a trip from Montana to Boston. He wants to do it next week. First time he's done this. He rode from Champoeg (my starting point essentially) and doing a three-day trip in preparation. He asked my advice on packing and stuff. He's a nice guy. I ate cornmeal mush with him and we talked some more.

About 50 miles today I rode again! Mosquitoes are attacking me - Hayyah!! I'll karate chop them if I have to! My tent smells!

Friday, May 27, 2005 (Silver Falls to Canyonview Camp, Silverton, Oregon, 20 miles)
Today I woke up early and decided to hike the 8.5 mile Canyon Trail - Trail of the Ten Falls (There's actually 11). I had the entire trail to myself for the vast majority of the trip - up until Double Falls at the end of my hike. Then, swarms of kids began to travel in groups opposing me. It must've been some kind of massive field trip or something! I took the Rim Trail back to South Falls Lodge and saw tons of kids and people everywhere - seven school buses!! Got back to my campsite & called Dad! - saw a slug. Took me about 4.5 hours - walking/hiking!! Legs are poooooooooooooped!! Anyway, I'm back - got my stuff all packed up and ready to go and hit the road one last time.

I also hiked the closed trails too. Don't tell anyone!! Down to Lower South Falls. Now I know why they closed it. Washed out trail and stairs - dangerous! But that's how I roll!

Beautiful scenery and water mist - water falls crashing down. Been here a hundred times but every time it's awesome! God is good! Well, I made it to Silverton about 3:30 - left at 1:45, rolling hills - last 4 miles downhill practically in the beating sun! but God remains to be good! I'm eating a Moolatte @ DQ! I deserve it! Muahaha! I made it! Despite the lack of faith in my siblings! Thanks for the faith in me Mom and Dad, LORD and me too!

Wildlife I saw
Deer, crickets, flies, bees, mosquitoes, ants, earwigs, horses, cows, sheep, woodpeckers, blue jays, llamas, dogs, cats, chipmunks, squirrels, racoons, slugs, snails, birds


Counties (13)
Lincoln, Lane, Douglas, Coos, Curry, Del Norte, Josephine, Jackson, Klamath, Deshutes, Jefferson, Linn, Marion


National Forests (8)
Siuslaw, Siskiou, Six Rivers, Rogue River, Umpqua, Winema, Deschutes, Willamette


Total Approximate Mileage Distance
800 miles

*Note: The following pictures were taken from a disposable camera. Please excuse the quality.