Good morning Los Angeles.
I woke early, quickly packed up my gear and hiked back down the rocky, dirt trail to the paved streets.
Just behind me is a massive mini-mansion development in the foothills of Rancho Cucamonga.
I picked up breakfast at a coffee shop and moved on - an easy ride on historic route 66 through the last remaining cities of the greater L.A. area.
While passing through Fontana, I met Andy Anderson, a retired machinist, riding his bike around. He mentioned that when he moved to the area a few decades ago, there was nothing but orange tree orchards. A stark difference from today.
Andy still rides his bike daily for nearly all of his commuting needs.
Unfortunately, my phone camera didn't save half the photos from today. I took a photo of the two of us, but it is gone.
I eventually picked up San Timoteo Canyon Road, an easy country road on the way to Beaumont. About half way through this stretch of road, I saw a little oasis of palm trees and zoo animals. Another tragedy of all the camera issues today - no giraffe and zebra photos :(
My phone saved the less interesting photo of the main gates...
I consider Beaumont the entrance to the desert. From that point on, nothing but sand, rocks and windmills.
At least I powered through the landscape with a wicked tailwind (and a steady descent) at 25+ mph for most of afternoon.
Absolutely incredible.
I tried to stop and take some photos, but the wind wouldn't let me.
Hello Palm Springs.
Joe.