Day 37 - 114 miles from Ludington to Mt Pleasant, MI

Now that we are in EST, we got up in the dark to be at breakfast by 5:30 am. The ride started at 6:30 am; just after sunrise. The NW wind was very favorable for a 114-mile ride going ESE primarily and the temperature was 70.

Views of MI, a very flat and pretty state.

We rode most of the ride in forest preserves where the road was lined with many and dense fir and pine trees.

Today, I found out that sometimes it is best not to follow the Garmin directions (we download each stage's route at the beginning of the next stage). I was alone and should have known better; nonetheless, the Garmin on a curve said go straight. In fact, I went around the curve and it said Off Course; so, I turned around and went straight onto a sand packed road. After I made a lengthy commitment to this road, I kept following the Garmin hoping to find a paved road soon. However, when it turned to very soft sand making it difficult to keep the bike upright I decided to call Support. I couldn't get anyone; so, I kept going. The horse flies were about to have me for lunch; finally, after about 3 miles I found a paved road and saw some riders I had passed many minutes ago. I didn't care; it was great to see people again! Although the Garmin was right in the turns it gave me along the sand road; I hope I learned something - to trust your common sense.

Even after sand road experience, I still got in early; so, I decided to ride around a little (actually since I had 116 miles I wanted to make it to 120) and ran into the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort. It is on an indian reservation. As the pictures show, it is quite a place.

By the time I got back to the motel, I had 125 miles but didn't mind because it was such a wonderful day.

Tomorrow, Anne and I will ride the  Co-Motion the 74 miles to Birch Run, MI.