In Memory of Warmer Summers

Gulf Shores, AL to Spanish Fort, AL

Friendly horn taps: 1

Hollering passengers: 1

Miles: 54

Total so far: 692

We begin our portion of the trek that follows the Underground Railroad Route north from Mobile, Alabama.  The land here immediately changes as we move away from the Gulf of Mexico into rolling hills and farm land.  The forests are more diverse with an abundance of hardwoods mixed in with the pines.  We will follow this route until Kentucky where we will turn left on the traditional Trans America Bicycle Route.

The hills become significant to our efforts to propel our gear-loaded 75 pound bicycles as we skirt the eastern shore of Mobile Bay.  This close to the water, I am surprised to see the rolling terrain.  The roads are narrow in the fairly exclusive communities of Point Clear, Fairhope, Montrose, and Daphne, yet the drivers were patient with our progress.

The flowers of Fairhope

Sallie's pink and purple Trek 520 (touring model) fits right in

Ok...that's a bit much - those bikes aren't gonna be here long are they?

We stop for lunch in Daphne and are treated to one of those much appreciated and desired meals for hungry cyclists.  They serve up a mean meal at Guido’s and we remain pleased with our habit of seeking out a big lunch on our rides.

Back by popular demand -- food pictures! That's Sallie's jumbo shrimp scampi in the background and my shrimp and grits in the foreground. Gotta fuel the engine!

We camp at the historic Blakeley State Park, site of the last major land battle of the American Civil War.  The battle of Blakeley saw nine black regiments of the United States Colored Troops fight here on the Blakeley Battlefield.

Our camp at Blakeley State Park

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Tomorrow’s ride is dedicated to Christopher Rubin

Christopher was a father, a son, a brother, and a good friend to many.  His life was cut tragically short by the irresponsible actions of a drunk driver.