On Day Four, the cyclists set out from Jackson, CA to Lake Tahoe. Before we began our ride, we were provided breakfast by Mel & Faye’s diner – a staple of Jackson and long time sponsor of JOH. After, we set out for our 95 mile ride through the mountains.
The tone of the day was set as the sun was blocked out by the huge landmasses we were about to climb. The uphill of our route was constant, and did not cease until we reached 8,000 feet of altitude. From there, it was a constant cycle (no pun intended) of climbing and downhill riding, until one last 6 mile descent led us to the main road of Lake Tahoe.
Once in town, we rode to the Lake Tahoe Ice Rink, where we were met with smiling faces and lasagna. Our completion rate was high, and so were our spirits. We could all lean back in our chairs, relax, and let out a sigh of relief- we had done it, we had biked nearly 100 miles and had climbed over 10,000 ft of elevation. Those who had energy went out and explored the city, while others did laundry, and some just rested back at lodging. Regardless, all of us could sleep easily knowing that tomorrow was a rest day.
The views from the ride were absolutely incredible. The entire day I found myself unable to stop smiling, with some of the sorest muscles being in my face, from seeing the snowcapped mountains in the distance. The ride was awe inspiring and transformative for a number of cyclists, myself included.
Patrick McKinney
SUNY Geneseo – Kappa Eta
Cyclist