Cortez, CO to Durango, CO 44.3 miles
While today's ride was only 44 miles, it consisted of two significant climbs, the highest being 8200'. In between the climbs, we passed through a mountain valley and encountered our first rain shower of the trip. Things got a little chilly since it was only 57 degrees, but it only lasted 20 minutes and as soon as I started the next climb, my body heated up quickly. The long and steep decent into Durango was a real adrenaline rush. The road's shoulder was in great condition and the wide sweeping turns allowed you to let it all out. At times I found myself racing the semi trucks. I could keep up on the steeper portions since they had to keep their speed in check, but I lost out on the flatter sections. Top speed was 41.3 mph. We reached our hotel by 11:30 am and had the rest of the day to explore Durango, do laundry, take a hot tub, etc..