77 miles from Bethel, VT to Lincoln, NH. The weather geniuses were wrong yet again, but this time in our favor: the rain didn't begin to fall until almost 4:00 today. But I digress...first we had a nice continental breakfast at the Greenhurst and another good conversation that included some discussion about Vermont politics (including Howard Dean).

Several steep climbs were on the route today and we wanted to try to get to the base of Kancamagus Pass for tomorrow's big effort, though we weren't quite sure 77 miles was achievable. Seems like all the climbs over 1,000 feet out East start out and end with 12% grades and today's did not disappoint.  We were pleased, however, that the Adventure Cycling maps were wrong on one section and the advertised 800 foot climb was more like a couple 200 foot efforts. This seemed to buoy our spirits and we finished a quick, light lunch and set off for the final two climbs under the threat of rain.

Today's good fortune continued and we didn't really get very wet until the top of the 2nd pass where we crossed the Appalachian Trail. After a brief chat with a couple from Missouri, we began the 12% descent in a steady drizzle and fog, riding our brakes most of the way down in order to keep our speeds around 25 mph. At the bottom of the pass are the little ski towns of Woodstock and Lincoln, where we are spending the night and trying to figure out how far to go tomorrow.

They have a nice brewpub here with excellent Pemi Pale Ales on tap and fantastic appetizers. We're at the base of Kancamagus Pass, which tops out at about 2,800 feet, contemplating a late start to tomorrow thanks to more rain in the forecast. We really don't mind riding in the stuff anymore, but it's a bummer that we can't enjoy the beautiful scenery that is rumored to be out there somewhere. The end of our journey is near and we're not quite ready for it! Maybe we can just turn south and ride down the coast...who's with us?! Priuses - 5.