An easy ride today following the Yampa River downstream to Craig. Just a month ago I was getting on the road early to beat the heat. Today I waited just a bit to let it warm up. It was 45F starting out so not too cold but I also knew it would be a shorter easy ride today without many hills.

The river varied from a narrow canyon to wide open and dry spaces. Except for a few canyon stretches there was a good shoulder. Also moderate traffic so reasonable cycling.

The first few miles were busy through the rest of Steamboat Springs. Outbound was this sign for Craig.

Canyon along the way.

Just before the narrow part. The canyon walls were steep with no shoulder and in some places nets to keep falling rocks from getting on the road.

This used to be coal country with several mines.

Mount Harris coal mine.

Near Hayden was this power plant. Harris itself was an excuse for a short break. By now it had warmed to 70F.

Rest area along the road.

Moffat County with lots of BLM land (yellow).

Welcome to Craig. I was here by 1pm so had a slow lunch. Unfortunately the motel doesn’t have check in until 4pm and otherwise seems to be slow (eventually after an hour of waiting I noticed they checked someone else in – so I was able to as well – wish they would have let me know when a room was available rather than letting me wait in the lobby until I noticed).

Overall a straightforward and easy ride and a nice change from the last three days that were slightly more difficult.