PCR Bike Tour Day 4 of 39 Bike Touring Banning to Idyllwild CA. Low mileage but long hot climb

Looking over the next segment of the route last night, I realized I needed a low mileage day, and boy was I right. It seems like I’m writing a lot about climbing but this is the big challenge right now until I hit the coast. I took advantage of the first couple of miles downhill leaving Banning coming to the foothills of the mountains. At this point it would be 95% uphill for the next 20 miles rising 4600 feet. I forecasted that it would take me four hours of riding to complete the ascent.

The road was not extreme but a steady incline mile after mile. there was a little wind to cool me down and the temperature continued to rise and the sun beat down roasting me. I searched for the rare shaded opportunity to rest, snacking a little bit and drinking water. This was definitely a four water bottle climb.

The traffic was light, which was good because the road was narrow in some spots Overall, not a bad road to ride

I saw my first big game animal today. A deer startled when it saw me and then a little ways up the road, I believe it was the same one, darted across in front of a car. I did my best to get a picture or a video but it was moving too quickly.

The city of Banning remained visible for quite a few miles, just getting further below. There were many vistas and viewpoints and if the skies were not so smoky, the views would be impressive. You could still see well enough to appreciate the views. But it doesn’t make for good photography.

The landscape changed from very dry and humid yellow to green with evergreen trees at higher elevations. Notable places near the top were Fulmor lake and Indian Vista overlook.

It ended up being a very difficult day again with a rating of 8.5 on my 1 to 10 scale.

I was Feeling quite exhausted when arriving at Idyllwild campground. When checking in with the Ranger he was quite surprised to see me arriving by bicycle. He said he hasn’t seen someone traveling by bicycle for over a year at this site. I guess not many do this crazy ride. This park is near the Pacific crest Trail. So they get mainly hikers. There are four or five tents here with hikers. The hiker / biker sites are only $5 but showers are $1 / 5 minutes.

With low energy, I slowly pitch the tent and unpacked my gear. To find something to eat I walked about 10 minutes into town. I had a burger at the Lumber Mill bar and grill. Then showered, hit the tent to work on planning and this Blog.

There’s still some more tough sections in the next days ahead. I need to figure out the food situation probably starting with a bigger breakfast to start the day. I ate too light of a breakfast for this type of climb. I get to the point where it’s hard to keep consuming water and snacks.

See this Detailed GPS data for today’s ride.