Sunday June 25, 2006 37 miles - Total so far: 988 miles

The road out of Boulder climbed up Boulder Mountain some 18 miles to an elevation of 9,400 feet through the Dixie National Forest (Dixie, because early settlers from the southeast successfully planted cotton in the area). This climb, though not as long, was reminiscent of the eastern slopes of the Sierra Mountains...with one exception: here, the vistas of 100 miles and more out over the canyon lands and desert landscape were at times breathtaking (see our photos). In addition, we passed lovely small mountain brooks lined with birch trees and primrose bushes as we climbed through an evergreen forest. At one vista viewpoint we met Matthew and Barbara, who had been hiking and camping for several months. We enjoyed very much chatting with them and receiving their encouragement and best wishes.

We pitched our tents for the night in a campground in Torrey, Utah beside a pasture fence. At dusk we received a visit from a horse and small herd of cows who lined up along the fence and seemed very curious about what we were doing. Also, a young French Canadian cyclist from Quebec, Marie-Eve, was a late arrival to the campground. She is cycling solo across the US this summer to raise donations for multiple sclerosis.... her website is www.6000kmverslespoir.com. We admire her adventurous spirit and wish her a continued safe trip.