Crossing the flooded Missouri River

Day 17, May 9 Topeka to St. Joseph

Data: 87.6 miles Riding time 5:06 (17.2 avg)

It's funny, but 89 miles now seems pretty easy -- at least today's 89 miles. We had good weather, and it was green and scenic. Not as scenic as Abilene to Topeka because we were mostly on a busier highway versus the back roads last Monday, but still rolling hills and a great bike ride. A highlight was crossing the Missouri River, which was at flood level and was rushing so fast. The level below this railroad bridge was just a foot or two, with a huge log/debris back-up behind the footing.

I took the above and below shots from the Amelia Earhart Memorial Bridge, in Atchison (her birthplace). This photo shows how high the water level is at the banks:

Just a quarter mile or so on the other side of this bridge was the "Welcome to Missouri" sign. Jerry, Geoff, Dave and I got there first and took pictures.

But before we could leave, a bunch of others stopped so we stayed for more photos. A couple fellows took the opportunity to take a pee, which happens a lot along the sides of our roads. However, at this spot, since we had just entered the "Show Me" state, they got a ton of razzing from the group.

The Missouri side of the river was less interesting and flat. We had our lunch at a fun place, though, where we could sit on old fire engines.

The closer we got to St Joe, however, the more beautiful it got, with incredible homes. Going through the town, we got to ride on a parkway, so that was a treat.

After my shower, I met up with Barbara Ball, a friend from the Carnation Research Lab days. She had transferred to the Nestle R&D Center here, and retired about 4 yrs ago. We had a nice lunch and visit.

We then went to the Pony Express Museum, since this was the Eastern terminus. It was interesting to know that the pony express lasted all of 18 months before the telegraph made it obsolete.

Tomorrow is a long day. It is listed as 153 miles, but I found out it's "only" 145. It will be rolling hills all the way, such the total uphill is supposed to be about 8200 feet! I need to hit the hay.