Day 15 – Bump and Gravel Grind – Weiser to Midvale - First day on the Weiser River Trail

Regrouping for Weiser River Trial Ride (no Diane did not bring the blue jeans)

The 31 miles we rode were extremely rough.  We cannot recommend this part of the trail to anyone who doesn’t have front suspension and at least two-inch tires.  (We have the latter, not the former.)  The surface is mostly ballast, punctuated by sandy stretches and hardened cattle tracks, and all uphill (we expected the uphill).  You have to keep eyes on the trail to avoid the large rocks and find the safest passage; otherwise, you and/or your bike is bound for injury. 

In addition, this part of the river is sluggish and murky.  Towards the second half of the ride, the river became more scenic, but you don’t really see it until you stop to take a drink and look around (taking a drink while biking is too risky). 

The saving grace of the day -- you end up in Midvale, an oasis, with good food and lodging.  We stayed at the Trailhead Hostel – it was really a great place to stay and we highly recommend it to all travelers.  The innkeeper had inquired of Diane about the trail, and Diane described the situation, saying she was hoping to make a friend of a pick-up owner who would drive us from Midvale to Weiser on our return date.  She said she would be that friend, and if we decided to do that, just let her know.

Our dinner at the Country Coffee Cabin was quite yummy – prime rib for Rob and grilled salmon for Diane.  There was also a well-stocked mercantile which met our needs.

Tomorrow will be a shorter (26 miles) and hopefully better, ride to Mesa Siding, which is just a gravel parking lot between the trail and US 95.  Our innkeeper at the Elkhorn B&B will pick us up there and transport us to her establishment, which is a working farm/ranch.

Looking forward to better!

Diane & Rob

One hour into the ride and only 5 miles covered.... can't make anytime because the trail is thick with gravel and very bumpy. 

The trail remained very rough so we jumped on a parallel road for a bit.... ah the joy of asphalt. 

After mile 10 the trail joins up with the Weiser River. 

In the lower reaches the River is slow, shallow and given to algae and moss - but is an interesting companion on your ride.

Back on the trail we entered a narrow canyon and the ride became more interesting but still rough. (I know it sounds like we are starting to whine.)

Diane approaching one of the many trestles on the trail all of which are in great shape and easy to traverse. (Is that better?)

Lunch on the trail. 

Go juice for the latter part of the day. 

Our accommodations in Midvale - a most excellent choice. Highly recommended for anyone passing through.