Crossing The Mississippi

Tuesday July 16 was day 30 of the Big Ride Across America and the day we crossed the Mississippi River.  The total distance ridden was 71 miles from Winona Minnesota to Viroqua Wisconsin.  It was one of the more difficult days of the Big Ride because of the heat, humidity, and the hills.  The temperature was 95 degrees when we arrived in Varoqua, the hottest day so far.  The humidity was oppressive from the start of the ride.  We had over 3200 feet of climbing, most of the elevation gained on 2 steep climbs out of the river valley.  The first climb was called 'Charlie Boy' which was a mile and a half long and as steep as 11%.  We did have an awesome reward shortly after the top.  The Meyers family put on quite a spread for us as they have done for the Big Ride for the last 12 years. Cupcakes, apple pie, fresh fruit, iced tea, fruit punch... we spent an hour there with them indulging in their hospitality.  From there we descended back down to the river and crossed in LaCrosse Wisconsin.  We rode through beautiful farm country along the Mississippi River valley and then climbed once again out of the valley onto the rolling farmlands and Amish farms of southern Wisconsin.  Tonight we are back to camping outside at the Vernon County fairgrounds.  We had to strategically lay out our tents to take advantage of the number of extension cords, power sources and fans.  

Worlds Largest Six-Pack in LaCrosse

Mississippi River

Wisconsin State Line