DALMAC is complete, I made it a total of 335 miles from Lansing to the Mackinaw Bridge! Today was a relatively short 56 miles, but had over 2,000 ft of climbing! The steepest hill I went up was over 11% grade.
I reached Mackinaw City around 3pm where Katrina and the girls were waiting for me. ? It was so nice to see them again.
I’m finding the ending bittersweet. I’m glad to have made it and my body is asking for some rest (and it’s great to be back together with the family). On the other hand, it was so much fun that I wouldn’t have minded going another few days riding instead of going back to work on Tuesday. On a bike tour, even though it’s hard work, you can just relax and take in the sights. I didn’t have to think about anything except pedaling, and that was refreshing. I loved it!
Thanks to all my family and friends who have followed along and offered support and words of encouragement. It makes a huge difference to help me through the tough moments. I appreciate you.
The morning fog was visible over the lake in Petoskey this morning. Also worth mentioning the hill in this photo is where I hit my top speed for the tour: I cracked 40 mph on this one. It was an awesome way to start the day.Harbor Springs, looking amazing as always.This boat in Harbor Springs caught my eye. Loved the vintage and cared-for look.Taking one look back at Harbor Springs while riding toward the Tunnel of Trees.Most of the Tunnel of Trees is closed right now due to the road being washed out in multiple places from spring storms. We were able to ride 7-8 miles of it though and it was incredible.A man and boy fishing along Tunnel of Trees.I stopped here for some breakfast. Not a bad view for a meal on the run.Another shot of the Tunnel of Trees. I’ve only visited here during the autumn previously, but it’s gorgeous in summer too.“Lunch” was at Good Hart General Store, at the top edge of the Tunnel of Trees. It was the most full rest stop of the week, with people riding the 4 Day West Route catching up with us on the 5 Day West on their final day too.They had lots of food options and even a musician playing guitar for entertainment.This valley was actually at one of the higher elevations for the day. We rode almost through the center of it.My last break, 8 or so miles from the finish.I can see the Mackinaw Bridge!! Only a few miles more…Finished!! Took a few pictures at the bridge.And I couldn’t resist taking a dunk in Lake Michigan.After a shower and some fresh clothes, we grabbed Mexican food in Mackinaw City. I didn’t say no to a well-earned margarita.The final route for today. An incredible culmination to a fun bike tour.
