July 10, 2018
Bakersfield, CA
My plan for the day was to make a detour at the Flight Test Museum at Edwards Airforce Base. But Warm Showers host explained that I did not have the required authorization.
They urged me to visit the Tehachapi Loop instead. It's a railroad pass through the mountains that was built in the 19 th century. As a train ascent, it first makes two hairpin bends and then loops over itself.
When I arrived, there were only a couple of spectators but no trains. A few minutes later a train started the ascent. As it was looping over itself, a second train came form the other side and we could see them pass each other.
Once the trains left, I continued my journey. The road I was on, terminated at Freeway 58. I continued on the freeway, as I was advised. A careful inspection of the road signs revealed that bicycles were allowed while pedestrians and motorcycles were banned.
I existed at the first offramp. I followed directions given by Google Maps. The roads got steeper and steeper. The last mile was signposted "Private Road - Access controlled by electronic gate. 4 wheel drive only." I didn't want to go all the way back to the freeway, so I risked it. It was an unpaved road descending at 16 % ! Fortunately there was only one gate and it was not locked.
Today's ride: 133 km (83 miles)
Total: 3,307 km (2,054 miles)
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5 years ago
5 years ago