October 7: Reno to Fallon, Nevada
Our trek across the state of Nevada has begun! And it began with a 2500 foot climb to Geiger Summit (elevation 6789 feet) on Highway 341 to Virginia City.
The morning was cold and clear and provided spectacular views of the Reno area. I would highly recommend taking a scenic drive on this route no matter how you’re travelling — car, motorcycle, bicycle, or whatever. The reward of doing the climb is more scenic views on the east side of the mountains. Also there, nestled in the mountains, is Virginia City, the largest federally designated Historical District in America. It has a Main Street a mile long and filled with historical buildings, shops, restaurants, and attractions.
From Virginia City, I had a quick (and cold) descent down Six Mile Canyon. It took me to Highway 50 about 6 miles past Dayton, Nevada. From there, I stayed on Highway 50 all the way to Fallon, Nevada. This stretch of Highway 50, which has been called the “lonliest road in America”, wasn’t very lonely. All that will change though after we get east of Fallon.
| Total distance: | 69.78 miles |
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| Time: | 5:37:42 |
| Average speed: | 12.4 mph |
| Maximum speed: | 33.8 mph |
| Total calories: | 4892 |
| Average heart rate: | 114 bpm |
| Maximum heart rate: | 155 bpm |
| Total ascent: | 3230 feet |
| Total descent: | 3774 feet |
| Ride profile: |  (click on image to view a larger version) |
| Ride comments: Climbed on the bike and immediately started a 2500 foot climb to Virginia City on Highway 341. I felt pretty good though despite having done 98 miles the previous day. It was pretty cold at the top of the climb. From Virginia City, there was a quick descent to 4500 feet where it was quite a bit warmer. Highs around 70 today. Winds from the north, so they neither helped nor hindered me very much. |
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