Geo from Bentonville Transplant from Chicagoland on 10/28/2024 6:23:33 PM:
October 14, 2024 - 6th and final day. Started in Washington, jumped on the Trail at the Dutzow TH. The journey was ~40 miles. From Washington, there were only a couple of bathroom breaks otherwise it was full speed (13.9 mph average) to St. Charles. I've been to St. Charles and specifically the Bike Stop Cafe because where else does a cyclist go for lunch (even when I am not on a trail ride). I had a tuna melt with vegan chili and a beer which was perfect for the chilly ride that day. I started out at around 46 degrees with no long pants (forgot to pack the right type). My feet never warmed up so that chili hit the spot plus the propane firepit I ate next to was much appreciated. It barely broke 60 degrees that day but I pressed on to Machens after a hearty lunch break. St. Charles is a very touristy town with lots of shops, overnight accommodations, wine bars, restaurants and history information about the Trail. This day it was decked out for Fall and Halloween.