July 5 Day 18, Riverton to Casper WY, 119 mi.

Today was a unique experience, we had 100deg.  rain, hail, headwinds, tailwinds all in only 119 mi. and the scenery never changed.  From Riverton to Casper it was desert scrub brush up close and mountains in the distance. 

To recreate today's ride, sit on a board, stare at this picture for 8 hrs. in the sun, then jump in an ice cold shower and run back to stare at the picture for two more hrs.  That's what we did, scenery never changed all day, except one historical monument.  We told each other this ride builds strength and character, nobody believed it.

Historical monument

Strangely beautiful



close up of valley

Today's educational moment:


Cattle crossing guard grate

This is a grate that cattle won't walk across.  It is in many driveways and some roads.  The grate acts like a gate that you don't have to open and close.  Cattle won't cross it.  Think rumble strip on steroids.  Cars can drive right over, bicycles can ride right over if it is DRY.  Don't ride across when wet, because it is extremely slippery.  Pit under the grate is about 12" deep.  Best speed to ride across is about 15mph.  Then it only rattles your bike and body.  Slower and it feels like everything is falling apart.
We are only 1/3 of the way across the country and I am already amazed at the diversity we have seen.  Ocean, mountains, valleys, deserts, green pastures and forests.  The U.S. is truly an amazing country.  The people we have met are almost all curious, friendly and helpful, fun to talk to.  The few obnoxious and spiteful people we have met are a very very small minority.  We have had passengers in cars throw handfuls of gravel and drivers who refuse to budge an inch.  Because of this we try to always keep safety first and have a cheerful attitude.  There have been so many courteous and polite drivers especially professional truck drivers. 
Stay safe
Thanks to everyone who emails.  Mail is GREAT to receive even when I am too tired to answer.
Sam