Over Stevens Pass in the rain

We had quite a ride today, with lots of challenges and contrasts.  We climbed a little over 3000 feet in the first 16 miles, with about half the climb in the last five miles.  It wasn't the steepest climb I've ever done, but it was definitely the longest.  The temperature was about 50 degrees when we rode out, and it certainly didn't get any warmer as we climbed.  I had the interesting sensation of being hot and cold simultaneously, generating heat as I climbed while being pelted with rain and a little hail.  Our support vehicle was at the pass, where we changed out of some of our wet clothes, added a few layers, and drank some very welcome hot chocolate before we started down.  The first five miles were scary, as I could hardly see with more rain and trucks throwing up water, the road was very steep, and I was freezing.  Fortunately it became a little less steep, the sun came out, and we rolled downhill for almost forty miles.

Starting out in the rain.

Enjoying the afternoon sunshine along the Wenatchee River.

Incredible scenery.

Looks like Bavaria.  

Lots of wet biking clothes drying in the sunshine on the dry side of the Cascades.