Friday, June 2, 2017

Just Short of 14,114'

We left Hays Kansas around 9:00 this morning, continuing our journey west.  We crossed the border into Colorado, hardly noticing a difference other than the quality of pavement.  Finally a little way in, the terrain starts to become a little more hilly and the highway has corners.  We're already over 5 to 6000 feet in altitude. 

Today's destination takes us into Colorado for a night in Colorado Springs.  Colorado Springs just happens to be close to the world famous Pike's Peak.  We decided to take the ride up and follow the path of all of those famous racers. 

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest auto race in the U.S.; 12.42 mile course with 156 turns ending at the 14115 foot ...

 
Because of snow and heavy fog near the top, we were only able to drive up to mile 11 of the 19 mile road.  Twisty and very scenic, even with the showers that enveloped us most of the way.  We were a little concerned about the clay hillsides.  Rocks and mud debris had fallen onto the roadway in several places and it looked as though some hillsides could have given way.  Luckily all was good. 

 On the way up to Pikes Peak we stopped by the old cliff dwellers homes and thought we'd have a look around.  It seems they moved out some years ago and nobody is sure where they are now.  Pretty crafty, those people.  Quite amazing what you can make work for yourself without building codes. 

Back in town and checked into a hotel, we set out on foot to check out the downtown area.  We got as far as 
Jack Quinn's Irish Pub.  In for a pint or two, we got to talking with the bar staff.  As soon as they learned our travels and intended destination, they were very helpful in suggesting places to see on route. 

As we were about to leave and see more of the town and check out a few possible places for dinner, another huge rain squall moved over the top of us.  It was intense enough that if we had tried to even walk next door, we would have been soaked.  We stayed for dinner. 

We'll press on tomorrow.  Probably to Wyoming. 

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