Day 9 Albuquerque to Las Vegas (NM)

The forecast was for showers and snow. Temps at 32 F (0C). Up at 5:55, Breakfast at 6:00. Load and leave at 7. It was cold around 0C. Straight out of the car park we were climbing. The fist 25 miles was climbing then a short respite and more climbing. During this time we passed a couple who had left early. (today is a long day with lots of climbing,135 miles and 8100 feet). The sky was changing quickly. It was fin then looked menacing then fine. However on the climb we hit a snow fall. Light flakes of snow drifted down. We passed through a town with snow on the roofs. And climbed our way to the first SAG. We arrived there first and it was cold. Taking your gloves off to get a bar froze the fingers. Then off heading for lunch.

Nice Sky

Looks like rain/snow

Where's it gone

There was a brief descent then up the last major climb of the day. Lunch was at a fire station.

Jason with Karen and Judy the support staff. We were first to lunch.

The fire station.

The firefighters offered their facilities but they were off on a call before we could take advantage. We headed off before getting too cold. A short climb then 1200 feet of descent on the I 25 so nice and gentle. This had a wide smooth shoulder. Along here we biked through a heavy snow storm. Visibility was reduced and it really built up on the clothes. Along here we sped up a little as it was pretty chilly snow was coming from all directions. The Van passed us just before the last SAG and the snow stopped as well. We signed into the SAG and headed of. It was rolling country and a slight head ind for the last 30 odd miles. Finally reaching the hotel at 4:15. Making 136 miles in 8:24. Jason ordered Pizza online as there are no eating places close by. We went down to see if the gear was here and yes it had left the last SAG when some riders were still 10 miles from it. They will have a long day. We unloaded the trailer and just as we go back to the room and the pizza arrived. Great timing. Preparing for another day tomorrow.

Snow at the hotel.