May 29th, 72 miles to Ashland


Today was an easy ride. The route was flatter, winds were mostly calm or from behind and there were several towns to cross. Started early again and the ground was wet and slight hint of drizzle but mostly dry. Already some traffic out on the Redwood Highway but road was good with small shoulder. Cycled with few ups and downs in first 11 miles when a sign told me elevation 1640 and then more descent from here to Grants Pass. Stopped briefly in Wonder where photo above was taken.

Road became both wider and busier as reached Grants Pass. Stopped here for breakfast at 27 miles. After this followed CA 99. This route went parallel to I-5 so contained mostly local traffic. In the first 10 miles after Grants Pass we went close to river and there were many different places to stay. After this crossed the river and went via Gold Hill with a slight hill to climb and then descent into towns of Central Point at 53 miles and Medford at 57 miles.

After Medford there was slight uphill grade. Road still continued well and sign below was at entrance of Ashland. This town is both a tree city and a bicycle city. Also known for holding Shakespeare festival and shows through the summer. Given the ease of route was done for day by 1pm and otherwise had relaxing afternoon. Now sorting out route choices from here.

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