The Route: Our route took us through the corn and soybean country of south central Minnesota. One of the signature elements of this area is wind, and did we ever get it. Starting in the stretch between Austin and Albert Lea on Day 3, the strong winds hit us full in the face, and I later learned that it had been measured at 20 mph. After that, the wind generally shifted to stay in our faces even as we changed direction over the rest of the week. No kidding. The beautiful Minnesota River Valley provided some exciting downhill runs, some invigorating uphill climbs, and occasional respite from the winds. We crossed the Minnesota valley four times in all. |
