My eyes opened at 6:40 this morning. I have a long day riding some long, steep hills. I dress and begin packing up. The fly is wet, the bike cover is wet, dew is on the outside, and moisture from the ground wets the underside. Checking the weather, some rain at 8 a.m. I want to be all packed before the rain. Breakfast is dry granola and a pint of orange juice. I take a morning photo of the harbor, then begin pedaling toward the route. It is 9 a.m. and misting.
The long journey begins. I get back on route in three kilometers. I have another seventy to go. The suspension bridge gets me across the Nipigon River.
I found out last night that this river is the largest source of Lake Superior.
I soon begin climbing and descending. The small hills of the day. Thirty kilometers done, now the hills get long and steep. After each climb, I drop back down level with the lake.
I ride this terrain all day until I begin the last climb of the day. This climb is under construction with only one lane open. The flagged directs me to ride in the coned off the work zone. Finally, I get to the end of construction. The flagger on this side is standing at the park entrance. I cross the cones and ride into the campground.
Nancy is waiting for me. It is 4 p.m. I am hot and tired. I drink a Gatorade and then an ice-cold pint of beer. Nancy cooks steaks on the grill. Steak and salad. I dry my tent and gear in the late-day sun. Then a shower, a long, hot shower! I feel human again. We relax, walk Moe, and visit others in the neighboring sites.
The day is done.