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Today was meant to be a short day. Over the last three days we’ve ridden 101, 80, and 84 miles. We faced our second to last climb over 10,000 ft and we were ready for an easier day.

Our goal was to reach the USFS campsite just beyond Rico about two thirds the way up to Lizard Head Pass, about 44 miles away. On our way out of town we stumbled upon what we were sure was the yellow pickup truck of one of the friendly Coloradoans who gave us the finger on our way into Delores. It was parked in a high school parking lot with a “red neck” sticker on the windshield, a “no bama” sticker on the back, and a decorative grenade as the handle of the stick shift. I’m guessing he isn’t a compassionate conservative or driver.

The climb was pretty mild compared to some of the grades we faced in Utah. It was a nice change to be riding along the clear rocky Delores river, with lots of trees and vegetation. We were tempted to dip our feet in it, but it seemed that most of the accessible banks were private property and fenced off. I guess it’s not God’s country anymore.

As we continued the climb, the weather became increasingly foreboding. Clouds darkened and the occasional thunder clap was heard. Before we reached Rico we were getting nothing more than a light sprinkle. While picking up some supplies at the minimart in Rico, the sky opened up and it began to pour.

Instead of trying to wait out the rain, we opted for plan B, and booked a room at the Rico lodge. Attached to the lodge is the Argentine resturaunt, which we’re anxiously awaiting to try out.