Bicycle Tours

From: Newhalem, Washington
To: Burlington, Washington
Mileage: 70




We were up with the sun this morning for a very early start; after a terrific night's sleep. Last night we were lulled to sleep by the Skagit River. Our campsite was at riverside among giant hemlock, Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine. It was like being in a fairy tale surrounded by the giants of the forest and ferns. After packing up and eating a quick breakfast of oatmeal, we pushed SeeMore quietly through the wooded trail back to route 20. The walk-in campsites were THE campsites to use in this campground. Today's ride featured no headwind and no major hills to climb, a very easy ride today.

Washington state drivers were still asleep so we had the road to ourselves as we cruised passed more mountains, dropping in elevation.

Traffic began to pick up around 9:30 am, just in time for our second breakfast and route change in Concrete, WA (yes there really is a town named "Concrete") With eggs and toast in our bellies we crossed the Skagit River where the route leaves busy route 20 for a peaceful ride on the south side of the river through a tunnel of towering pines. Which occasionally opened into a meadow or farm field.

When we hit route 9 we had a decision to make, whether to head into Sedro-Wooly or the bigger, busier city Burlington. We opted for Burlington due to the hotel selection and bike shop.

After a rude awakening to the hustle and bustle of the big city and traffic we landed at the Holiday In Express, a bit pricey but all services and amenities including guest laundry, pool an Jacuzzi Ahhhhh . . .

Tomorrow it will be a short ride to Bay View State park where we will touch our tire into the Pacific Ocean and complete our journey.