Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Alaska Caper - Day 31

July 4, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson

Start: Coeur d’Alene, ID, to Banks, ID, in air-conditioned comfort -- 341 miles
Banks to Sun Valley, ID – 154 miles

As Bob Drake’s trailer would only accommodate two bikes, Jerry graciously offered to ride from Coeur d’Alene, ID, to McCall were he would join his family. Bob and I rode in air-conditioned luxury, stopping to off-load Jerry’s motorcycle gear and visit briefly with his family who were all gathered at their beautiful McCall cabin for a 4th of July celebration.

Bob and I then proceeded south. I off-loaded my bike at Banks, ID, in 102-degree weather. I dipped my jacket and riding overpants in the Payette River and bid Bob goodbye and a special thanks for seeing me safely through nearly to home. I then headed off towards Sun Valley to meet Jacquie. There was virtually no traffic on the road, and at the time I reached Banner Summit the temperature had cooled down substantially. The ride from Banks to Sun Valley was beautiful, as usual, and unencumbered by traffic or other circumstances. I arrived in Sun Valley at 6:00 p.m., feeling relieved and thankful for a rewarding and safe trip and very happy to see Jacquie and our three wonderful dogs. I had arrived in time to climb up dollar mountain and observe the traditional 4th of July fireworks.

My incredible, 31-day excursion had come to a close.

1 comment:

Frank Ritcey said...

Hi Dick: We met up in Smithers and I got your message re: moose hunting but I have since lost your phone #. Could you please contact me again. Thanks Frank Ritcey. Contact info at our Christina Falls Website - www.christinafalls.com