September 24: A Veritable Buffet of Colors and Curves

What an off the charts amazing day! Today’s ride was so full of wonderful views and delightful curves I felt like I was a guest at an all you can eat buffet with prime rib and decadent chocolate desserts. Leo Guzman Fernandez led the way as we headed on a multitude of backroads to visit my best friend Michelle in Goldendale for lunch. Of course, we took the long way home.

The sun was shining and the air a crisp high 50’s when Leo and I headed north on Interstate 205 and then east on highway 14 along the Columbia River. The horizon was bursting with color as the deep blue sky framed the green foothills and valleys of the Gorge while the blue-gray river snaked its way serenely around little inlets and islands.  

At Cook we headed north on the Cook Underwood Road to enjoy a variety of twists and turns through farmlands and fields before heading back to Underwood. After a brief ride along highway 14 we headed north again on highway 141 towards Glenwood. As we swooped around more delightful curves we enjoyed killer views of Mount Adams, towering over the countryside and displaying its beautiful white peaks.

Arriving in Goldendale we met my best friend Michelle for lunch at the Honky Tonk Bar and Restaurant in Goldendale. It was wonderful to relax and enjoy spending time with both Michelle and Leo as we shared crispy fried green beans and wonderful entrees. I enjoyed every bite of my moist and flavorful cheeseburger with extra grilled onions and tomatoes.

After lunch, Leo and I followed the winding Klickitat River through stunning backroads with burnt yellow grass and more blue skies. After crossing over at The Dalles and heading west on Interstate 84 we took highway 35 around the back side of Mount Hood, giving us more beautiful mountain views. What an incredible day!