March 11

From Salome to Wickenburg, Arizona.
54.3 mi
10.9 mi/avg
24.4 max
time: 4:55:12

Wickenburg the Dude Ranch center of Arizona

Elev:.2082 ft.

Rode out the hotel parking lot, turned right and stayed on Hwy 60 all the way through Wickenburg.  Stopped at a coffee shop in Wenden operated by a woman who looks forward to the company each year.

Stopped to take a picture of a cute public library in Aguilla. Coyote Cafe in Aguilla was a lunch stop, but I got there way too early for lunch, so I skipped it.  Hwy 60 is an RV mecca for "snow-birds".  Very few services along the way, lots of boarded up buildings in each little community, a reminder of better economic times. Ride was primarily flat through desert scenery changing from Saguaro cactus to prickly pine.

Kept myself well covered all day, long sleeves, 4 layers, 3/4 length pants, knee warmers and socks, so very little skin was uncovered.  Finally got warm about 10 miles away from Wickenburg and started shedding.  It was a clear, mostly cloudless day with a brisk headwind most the way.  I rode with a group for a bit, drafting some, but feel uncomfortable so close, so I back off and have to work harder.  Everyone ends up riding in her own comfort zone.

I'm riding with all women that I had never met before this trip, so I'll share a bit about some of them, occasionally.

Rita is from Minneapolis and is a retired special ed teacher.  She also had a side business as a professional photographer.  She is an expert at using photoshop.


Sue is from Dallas Tx and works as a real estate investor. Recently she has been buying reposed homes, fixing them up and then renting them.

Mike (her father wanted a boy) has had several careers including teaching in Centennial School district so we have many mutual friends.  She was a runner in the 70's and 80's so our paths probably crossed. She is a friend of Jim S and his friend Mary from VBC as well.  Small world.

I'll add pics later.