Iowa--It's flat, isn't it?

When you tell people that you are planning to do a bike ride across Iowa a common response is: "Oh, Iowa. That's flat, isn't it?"

Short answer: No, it is not flat. If you've ever ridden a bike across Iowa you know that it's not flat. And today was a day that, once again, was proof that Iowa is not flat.

It was a relatively short ride at 52 miles, but there were many hills throughout the day. Of course, not like riding in the Rocky Mountains, but something that gives a workout, nevertheless.

The Loess Hills are a unique geographic formation in Western Iowa.
http://www.iptv.org/iowapathways/mypath.cfm?ounid=ob_000236

Besides giving a workout on a bike, there is the benefit of the beautiful scenery. Miles and miles of rolling, lush green hills to gaze at as you pedal along. And we had gorgeous weather today. Sunny and not too hot and absolutely no wind at all.

We are spending the night in Red Oak, a friendly, small town, nestled along the Nishnabotna River. As always there is lots going on this evening and being refreshed and set up for the night is a great feeling after having worked hard all day.

Tomorrow brings more hills and has additional miles--72 miles to be exact. There are a lot more towns that we pass through tomorrow, so plenty of opportunity to take breaks. It should be another wonderful day.