Ahhhh, The Views

Sharon, Mark and Mike consider the view and the upcoming ride on the Talimena Scenic Byway.

Key Word: Mountains

Apparently, "Ouachita" is an old Indian word for "need more gears."

Fresh Legs

After a good breakfast at the Skyline Cafe, all riders are ready for the Grand Depart.

Swweeettt!!!

Very low traffic, smooth roads and great scenery. (There are a few hills, too.)

John Can't 'Bear' Another Hill

Brenda and John are comforted by the bears after a long climb up to Queen Wilhelmina Lodge.

Did I Mention the Scenery?

There is a reason they call it the Talimena Scenic Byway.

The Vistas are Many

We stopped at a lot of vistas to read the signs and admire the view . . . Not because we were tired or anything.

Pictures Lie

This looks easy, but in reality this stretch of road is approximately 8%. Not really bad, but definitely not flat.

Are we there yet?

The group prepares to launch off a 4 mile descent with grades up to 15%. Wheeeeeeeee.

I'm Feeling Rich

The Rich Mountain Store is a destination unto itself.

The Feed Zone

Just like in the tour, these riders discover the importance of picking up to eat from the feed zone. Burgers were the order of the day.

Ahhhh, Hooey

If you go to the Rich Mountain Store, get something to eat and ask the owner to show you his "hooey stick."

They Walk the Line

Sharon and Brenda discuss what separates them as they sip a cool one from their respective states.

I Will Survive

67 miles and nearly 7000 feet of climbing later, the group is finished.