08/01/23 Kettle Falls to Republic

August 1, 2023

A long, long climb

Heart

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I woke up a minute before my alarm and was on the road before 6 am. A virtuous start to a difficult day. It was up hill from the get go, getting steeper the higher I went. Relentless grades, always up, never down for 25 long miles. I flew down the other side, so quickly I have little memory, only to meet more steep hills arriving in the vertical town of Republic. It was definitely the most challenging day of this trip, and one that I’ll remember, if only for its endlessness. I’m so pleased with myself for recognizing that today was going to be a tough one and booking a room at the Klondike Motel with its excellent hot shower, quiet air conditioner, and nice firm bed.

I stopped to watch the lumber mill on the way out of the campground

I waited until it was clear and raced across, tailed closely by a patient logging truck. I couldn’t risk a glance to the side and so missed the morning golden hour view of the river

I stopped for breakfast at the gas station on the other side of the bridge and while munching my really good egg sandwich I see the start of the climb

Oh thank goodness! Not the highest, but among my toughest

I was going to google the deets but can’t

Dragging up the final hill to my motel at the other end of the street

Downtown Republic. This is the only flat spot in town

This guy noticed me as I was returning to my motel after dinner

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