I left Breaks early because ahead of me is 72 miles of Appalachian steep grade climbs to get to tonight sleep at a cycling hostel in Hindman, KY. The route takes me through the small rural towns into the heart of “Appalachian poor”. Tiny rundown houses and worn out house trailers clump together along the roadside with loose dogs ready to chase and catch the few cyclists that happen to pedal by. Probably the only excitement for these stay outside dogs enjoy until another bike packer pedals by at random intervals. Today I managed to keep away from the snarling teeth of six of these neglected animals.
The many climbs gave today’s end at the hostel the satisfaction of a job well done so I have rewarded myself with pizza for dinner and a nice hot shower before going to bed. I’ve looked over my maps and the next few days are more of the same, but Berea, KY where Nancy has set up camp is the carrot to keep me going forward.
