RIDING FROM ELK RIDGE CAMP TO YAKIMA

This would be the day I put it all together — Nile Road, Hwy 410, Old Naches Road and Yakima Greenway Trail. I helped with a few tasks of breaking down camp, like packing up the screen tent, and Susan was willing to release me for the ride.

It was a delight and I was out early enough to get to see those resting under the shade tree cows get their breakfast this morning.

I was indeed happy to see they were getting fed some hay as the grounds they roam seem dry and brown with no nourishment. Happy cows now.

Highway 410 remained safe as I never felt intimidated or worried as all vehicles (ok maybe one jerk) passed me allowing plenty of room, or slowed enough to wait for safe passing a couple of times. The highway parallels the Naches River and I enjoyed several great views as it meandered along.

The ride was almost too easy with a tailwind and flat terrain the whole way! Though the highway felt safe and easy, it was noisy at times and I was happy to reach Old Naches Road.

One car (only one) passed me along the way, and then no more traffic at all. I drifted along through the apple orchards with no need for speed.

This time I was able to get a better picture of apples.

The green strip in the middle shows plenty of orchards at these rolling foothills.

Getting crated up ready for distribution to a store near you ;’-).

I couldn’t pass up this whimsical mail box. Note the skis on the right.

With all the tailwind and the flat terrain, I arrived much sooner than either Susan or I expected. And before I knew it Susan was behind me telling me the correct turn to take ;’-). We pulled in at the same time, to the same park in Naches where we had met on the first day.

I had left camp early enough to miss this morning’s baked good treat. Susan was thoughtful and packed up a few of the biscotti for me to have at my halfway point. And then allowed me time to brew a cup of tea to have with the biscotti before taking off for Yakima. Made me a happy gal.

This is where I picked up the trail, and continuing along to Yakima, I had no new photos to post as I had scoured the area on the way out on the first day.

I did take the slightly wrong exit into town and was afforded views of the industrial area of Yakima, and had the challenge of finding Susan at the Waffles Caffe where she had had her breakfast/lunch. Eventually between Google Maps and Susan on the phone with directions, I did get there!

I loved riding the longer distance today and felt “almost” like I was on a tour.

It is now time for Susan to have more fun. We are now at a fishing outing camp with ‘Puget Sound Women On the Fly’. After this, we will be driving home. I am so ready to be home!

There is NO one more prepared than Susan.