HYLA, NICOLA AND PAUL NEMY. CYCLING THE SIERRA NEVADA. SEQUIA NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA. U.S.A.

August 26, 2016
Day four.
Potwisha Campground to The Giant Forest.

Chain Gang.

Today in a distance of less than twenty kilometres we will ascend over five thousand feet.

That will convert to close to four hours of saddle up time. 

One of our rewards will be riding into one of my favourite forest zones.

A wonderful mixture of pines and firs are often found between 4,000 and 6,000 ft above sea level.

In this case, add the majestic Sequoia with some cool mountain temps.

Lets go! 

Bicycling

The cause and solution to all my problems.

(just like alcohol)

Yesterday we were learning about the climb.

Today one gets quite reacquainted with oneself, 

the good and the part that could have used a little more training.

Slightly for myself, but for the girls, both Kate and I have been endlessly impressed with their mental fortitude in life and what life brings.

THAT SHIT YOU CAN'T BUY.

(or train for)

One can train, and train, and train

but

when it comes to forging ahead under somewhat 

difficult circumstances and still lay the miles of smiles down, well..........

Become exalted, elated and exhausted in life.

The road below.

Getting there.
and 
getting there.

This viewpoint will provide us with enough sightseers to take pity on us and help top up our bottles. A water source is not available till the visitor's centre near the top.

Here is one of many sources of both inspiration and slight doubt.

This driver both showed his encouragement,

"you folks are crazy!!!!"

 and expressed his personal concern that just going downhill was hard enough on his car.

The Giant Forest not actually being the summit, but it will mark our climbing success and achievement.

Summiting.

Stop we will.

Stop we will indeed.

Coming next: We have no flags to plant on the summit but celebrate we will.