February 23, 2025
Omakau to Bannockburn
I looked at the distances last night and settled on a shorter day. There was no advantage to get further because tomorrow I have to go over two peaks and I want to do that when I’m fresh. So, no alarm was set and I felt refreshed waking up.
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The first 25 km into Alexandra was a continuation of the rail trail and it was excellent. The wind was down so it was easy and enjoyable riding into town. Alexandra is the first larger town for a while so I was expecting some nice spots for breakfast. I rolled past a cafe and spotted 5 bikes and what looked like a big line so I continued. Finding nothing fast I doubled back and found out why it was busy. Good food and good coffee. I enjoyed a full second breakfast and then got started on the Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail.
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This is a really great cycle trail that follows the lake for 35+ kilometres. It’s double wide and people riding in both directions with loads of blind corners, hills, and some good fall offs. I didn’t find the exposure bad at all on this trail because the surface was so good and the riding was not technical. I stopped for lots of pictures and talked to a few people on route. I met a nice couple from Wellington. He was pulling an impressive wheelie across a bridge so I commented on the effort and we started talking. They are planning a Vancouver trip so I gave them likely too much information.
The trail took a lot longer than I expected but along the way I talked to my brother, mom, and my son. Instead of following the trail straight into Bannockburn I diverted and went into Cromwell for groceries. That was one of few shops I’ve done that weren’t at a 4-Square.
| Heart | 2 | Comment | 1 | Link |
https://www.nomadichorizons.com/californain-poppies.html
6 days ago
Yesterday I had the idea that I should shed some of the extra clothes I’m lugging around. I contacted Robyn and they were great about holding a package for when I roll back through. I decided to go without pots and a stove as well. I’m finding that so many of these campgrounds have kitchens and often dishes as well. I’ll just buy food that I can eat cold or heat up if I’m lucky.
Without that weight I shifted the pack I was carrying on the bars to the rack. And then took the mostly empty clothes back and put it on the bars. It’s having the desired result and I feel like I have much better control of the bars. It’s a live and learn thing for sure and I’m sure I’ll continue to tweak my entire setup.
| Heart | 1 | Comment | 0 | Link |
The campground here is nice. I basically just have a patch of grass but access to the amenities which is excellent.
Highlights:
-more relaxed day was a nice change
-cycle trail around the lake was very good
Distance: 95 km and 1017 m elevation gain
Today's ride: 95 km (59 miles)
Total: 2,659 km (1,651 miles)
| Rate this entry's writing | Heart | 9 |
| Comment on this entry | Comment | 4 |
1 week ago