Day 14

Wenatchee to Sun Lakes State Park. 78 miles, 8 hours 20 min of riding



Lakes and rivers by the laws of physics place themselves in bottom lands. As previously mentioned the bank of elevation keeps strict accounts, but it in fact pays negative interest. The energy expended in climbing is never fully repaid on the decent. The great Columbia River with it's deep coulees is a prime example. I had thought I might be avoiding something by not going through Vantage, but it was not to be. The road runs north from Wenatchee along the river bank for about 20 miles and then turns right and climbs up an 8 mile canyon that leads to the top of the eastern plateau of this state. 8 miles at 4 mph at midday. Food and rest break at Waterville before starting the 45 miles to this campground. I have learned to pee without leaving my bike. Traffic is light. My urine is quite clear indicating sufficient hydration. Along these lines, for those of you in need, I have found where in the Walmart of the road is the bed pan section. It is about 400 yards south of mile post 138 on SR 2. The selection and inventory is limited to two items so best not to dally. I took neither. Of the climb up the canyon I was aware. As I rolled steadily over the undulating terrain of the plateau I came upon a sign indicating a fishing lake somewhere ahead. Because of this I was not totally surprised when the wheat fields gave way to a stretch of sage brush and suddenly there appeared a sign indicating a 4 mile descent. This was not good news. I was at least 20 miles from Coulee City and I was pretty sure the 4 miles down meant 4 miles up. It did. Moses Coulee is the place. 5 PM was the time. It was tough.



Tried to call Beth in the PM. No service. I felt strangely isolated. I did get through near Coulee City, but off again here at the park where I have camped four miles south of the town. Mosquitos here. Since I sleep under only a tent fly there is no mosquito netting.



I have a few sore spots now, patches of sun burn, one tired buttock, (how does that happen?)



Time to get started on day 15.

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