50 miles, +5130/-1605 feet

Leaving Cottonwood this morning, as we continue our cross country bike tour, the riders anticipated the red rocks of Sedona, and they were not disappointed!  In addition to the beautiful views, the weather was perfect for cycling as we headed toward Flagstaff for our first (very well deserved) rest day.

Lots of pictures were taken just prior to the BIG descent into Sedona and an early morning coffee break at the Pink Java.  After scones and coffee, the ride up the canyon continued past holiday campers, Side Rock, and onto the switchbacks of the big climb at the end of the canyon. We set up our Feed Zone at the top of the climb and munched on apples slices dipped in chocolate caramel sauce.  Fueled up again, the riders hit the road for the final fifteen miles into Flagstaff. Riding through Northern Arizona University on the way to the hotel was a nice ending to the ride day.

Now for rest day!

Rest day means different things to different people.  Flagstaff is the perfect spot to rent a car and visit the Grand Canyon.  And, I’m told there’s great food to be eaten and drinks to drink.  It’s a fun town and the ideal first stop on our cross country bike tour.