85.9 miles, 3,510 ft ascent, 1 Bald Eagle Sighting
Thankfully, the weather today was beautiful and the wind was at our backs as we began our ride. Temperatures today were predicted to rise into the 70sF. We were thankful for good conditions today, as tomorrow will be another challenge. It is a 104 mile ride with no services for 90 miles, so we are using our "easy day" today to plan on how to fill water bottles to hydrate tomorrow.
The official campground "Greeter" wished me well for today's ride as I left our campground.
We had the opportunity to view a lot of the Canadian Shield granite, especially as we passed lakes. As a fisherman, I noted that in front of this outcropping should be a great place to catch Smallmouth Bass.
Once again today we were riding on the TransCanada Highway. It is known as Ontario Highway 17 in this region and is a two lane road. You will note that here, close to Kenora, the speed limit was 80km/hr (48mph), but it increased to 90km/hr (54mph) further out. Speed limits here are not nearly as fast as on US Interstates.
We enjoyed the beauty of many lakes as we pedaled on.
We passed this area where some of the granite bedrock of the Canadian Shield was blasted away in building the road.
As we pedaled, we took note of sources of water, anticipating places which might become water sources in the 90 mile stretch tomorrow where there are no available services. We found this small stream next to Hwy 17. It could be a source of relatively pure water to use if necessary, either with a water filter or water purification tablets. In all tours within my past experience, hydration services have been provided by the tour operators, who drive ahead, hauling water, electrolyte drinks and snacks for approaching cyclists, and set up hydration stops. It isn't known at this time whether such assistance will be available to us tomorrow. Thus far it has not been offered.
Most interesting event of the day! A bald eagle sporting its bright white head and tail flew out of the roadside grass within 10-15 yards from us and perched on a nearby tree limb to pose. We are now all unofficial "Eagle Scouts".
Just like at home, this bit of advertising assured us that help was at hand, should we require legal representation here. It appears that attorney contract agreements resemble those in the US, but I believe that Canadians are less litigious than Americans.
Goal achieved: Tonight's campsite complete with boat marina by Lake Wabigoon. For Minnesota relatives, that is Wabigoon, not Woebegone.
It's very windy. The Birch trees here are dancing in the wind! I am concerned about my tent, and considering going into town to acquire additional tent stakes. Once I have done that, it is time to set up camp and take it easy in anticipation of tomorrow's challenge.
Come back to learn how we overcome adversity once again!
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