Crossing state lines once again! Today’s ride was just over 76 miles and about 70 of them were on the same road, heading straight west. The temperature climbed pretty quickly, with the morning at a comfortable 60, but reaching 90 in the early afternoon. We did not climb quickly, however; it was flat as can be until we crossed into South Dakota and up a measly 1,000 feet over 40 miles. We also watched a wind turbine being “built” as oversized trucks passed us back and forth delivering parts and returning empty-trailered. Being so close to a turbine blade makes me feel incredibly small..!

Headwinds showed face but not with much power, and we pushed through the same-old-same-old until we came across the state line and South Dakota iconography: most namely the signs for Wall Drug! We are all very excited to visit and get our free ice waters. But that’s still a few days away. For now, Watertown has proven to be another favorite spot!

After two rest stops at miles 25 and 50, we arrived in Watertown to great news— our host arranged for us to go to a waterpark! On a hot and dry day like today, we couldn’t have asked for anything better. Talk about seeing the Water and the Town! The generosity today has been outstanding. Truly, it feels like a dream! We are so lucky to have people like Phil, whose support helps us get safely and happily across the United States. Dinner was incredible, and we had a blast chatting, cracking jokes, and hanging out (past bedtime!) I know I wrote a lot about Minnesota being great, but South Dakota is giving it a run for its money in just one day! We’ve had a blast swimming, had a delicious dinner, and even got some major bike maintenance done. What a day, what a day!

— Marielle