01/18/24 Tepetitlán

January 18, 2024

Lots of climbing, highest elevation to date

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A tiring day with lots of up and down, breaking 6000 feet for the first time. It took about 2 hours to completely escape Guadalajara, climbing, climbing all the time except for the annoyingly frequent downhill that I’d have to immediately pay back. It was a gloomy, gray day, which kept things cool but not very scenic. I got as far as Tepetitlán, which turns out to be a rather hilly town. As I write this, freshly arrived and sipping beer, not yet bathed, I don’t relish the idea of leaving in the morning and am considering staying two nights. I reevaluate once I’ve rejuvenated a bit.

No bike lanes on this side of Guadalajara

Cobblestone streets are not fun to ride. Fortunately it wasn’t a long stretch

The suburb of Tonalá could be a destination in its own right, as it’s a handicrafts center of some renown. Cyclists have the right of way

The Tonalá median was packed with sculptures. This is only a small part

I found it all very interesting but didn’t stop, I was focused on my route

Finally out of the city and onto the toll roads. I opted for the left fork, I’ve decided to head north a bit to visit Guanajuato

The smog of Guadalajara is finally behind me

Wayward cow, seemed confused as to why it was by the side of the highway and not behind the fence

After lots of climbing Tepetitlán appears

I went to the main plaza and had a popsicle while looking for a hotel on my phone. A passing driver shouted “Welcome!” in English as I was taking this picture

I found an inexpensive place a few blocks away

With a little courtyard. I feels like I’m the only guest

I went back to the center for food and people watching. It was lively

Rocking horses for the children. Note the guy with the tuba on the right

There was a band in the gazebo playing music, mostly marches

I’m not at all religious, but lately I’ve found it relaxing to sit in these churches and think in the calm away from the street

Today's ride: 46 miles (74 km)
Total: 1,377 miles (2,216 km)

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