17-05-06 Day 28

Mt Vernon, MO to Marshfield, MO

So, our goal today was to get back on track with our map sets from Adventure Cycling - goal met.  We cycled 64 miles today to Marshfield, MO which has filled the gap to the Trans America Bicycle Trail.  On our original itinerary we were to arrive in Hartsville approximately 25 more miles, but there are no amenities for sleeping.  We will be adjusting our destination points over the next few days. Also, we plan to keep riding as the weather cooperates over the next few days to keep on track with mileage.

One thing we have come to realize is the difficulty of picking your way through the larger towns/cities is very time consuming. The map set and the cycle routes on line attempt to take you the most bicycle friendly route as possible, which means many turns and extra mileage compared to taking the most direct route. Thus, today we navigated our way through Springfield, MO.  This provided for an opportunity to take a 5 mile paved bike trail, which was nice alternative to the roads and traffic.  Prior to entering our final leg today we paused for "lunch" along a horse pasture before entering State Route 00 (Route 66) to Marshfield.

Bikes resting on the pasture fence.

With a shorter mileage day, there were other tasks to attend to as well - laundry and bike maintenence.  Traveling light means having to do laundry every 2-3 days.  Thank heavens for hotel laundry facilities 😆.  Today Karen changed out her rear tire with a new tire and tube which will hopefully last the remainder of the trip.  Randy had updated his rear tire a few days ago.  Checking chains, brakes, and cables is an ongoing process.

Hotel bike shop open each evening, new rear tire.