Gallop NM to Grants NM. 68.5 miles and 1255 feet of climbing

 

After yesterday's long ride on busy I-40, today's ride was a welcome change of pace. We rode out of Gallop on "Historic" Route 66 before getting back on I-40 for a brief stretch. We exited the highway at the Continental Divide. After some picture taking, it was time to get back on Rt 66 all the way to Grants, NM.

All the climbing was in the morning, and the second part of the ride was either flat or slightly downhill. Very peaceful, with virtually no traffic. The wide-open plans on one side and beautiful rock formations on the other. And smooth road. 

Most everyone got to the hotel early. While waiting for our rooms to be ready, Payton, the tour's head mechanic, did some basic maintenance on some riders' bikes, including cleaning and lubing my chain. 

It was nice to have some time to relax in the hotel room this afternoon. Dinner tonight was at the Denny's a few doors down. There are not a lot of dinner options in Grants.

Click here to see a Relive video of today's ride

(The relive video stops at.....McDonald's in Grants, not our hotel. That accounts for the discrepancy in mileage)