Day 7: Baker City to Hells Canyon

74 miles
2928 feet of elevation gain

So today, although long, was probably the easiest day we've had so far. Practically the first 40 miles was either downhill or we were riding along at 20-25 mph because of a fantastic tailwind. It was great. I think I need to discuss the merits of downhills since I've talked so much about all the uphills we've done. I really enjoy uphills because the downhill is like the reward. You work up to it and have something to look forward to. You earn the downhill. The only downhill I haven't enjoyed was the Santiam pass and that was because I was trying not to slip in the gravel or get hit by a motor home and just couldn't relax. Our first downhills today were like a special treat because we did nothing to earn them, we just got to enjoy them. I'm a pretty cautious downhill rider. I don't pull in and stream line, I ride my breaks and usually try to keep my speed around 30 mph, at which I feel pretty in control. However, when the road is straight and traffic and gravel free I'll just let go and it is absolutely exhilirating, like you're flying. I think I've topped out at 36 mph. Gravel free is important because if you hit a rock wrong at that speed you'll probably either be in a whole lot of pain or not be feeling anything at all :) That's why I'm careful.

We had one big climb today. It was really steep and took us longer than expected, especially since Dad got a flat at the very beginning. We had to stop a lot for Dad today. First he wanted to take his rain coat off, then put it back on, then take it off, then he got the flat, then he broke the valve stem on his tire, for once I wasn't the slow one.
We got hit with a big rain storm at the top of the pass. It had been sort of spitting on us all day but after lunch at the top it started raining in ernest. That meant I couldn't really enjoy the downhill because we couldn't see through the rain, the road was covered and a bit slippery, etc. I thought it didn't rain much in Eastern Oregon. By the time we got into camp about 25 miles later Dad and I had reached the equilibrium point - the point at which we were so wet we couldn't even feel or notice the rain anymore.
We're staying at the Hells Canyon RV Park which appearantly has free wireless. It stopped raining not long after we got in. Hopefully the mosquitos are in hibernation because of the rain. It's kind of nice being with Dad because they devour him and pretty much ignore Jim and me.