Rained out, and then some

If yesterday's weather forecast was worrisome, today's was terrifying.  We were scheduled to ride 53 miles into While Sulphur Springs.  The route included the highest point on the trip, Porphrey Pass, at a little over 7300 feet, with about a 20 miles of climbing to gain about 3000 feet.  The forecast last night called for the rain to continue, with fog and possible snow at the pass, and wind gusts of up to 40 mph.  Seven people said  they wanted to try the ride, and the rest of us allowed as how we could live without the honor.  I volunteered to ride in the support vehicle and have hot water ready for cocoa and tea at the pass.  Our strongest, fastest rider decided there was a break in the rain and rode out about 9:30 am.  While the others were waiting a bit, a call came from Ken, who had driven the non-riders to our next stop and was on his way back, that it was 34 degrees at the pass, snowing, and about six miles of the route was totally socked in with fog.  Dave did make the whole trip and had thawed out by dinner time.  The others, some quite disappointed, rode over in the truck.  Good thing it was our last pass, as our record is one decent day and now three rainy days for climbing up and over.

Pretty white flowers?  Look closely.

The highest point of the whole trip, socked in.  Bill refused to take off his helmet for the whole drive.