We appear to be one day ahead of the bad weather that is plaguing the Midwest. Our decision to arrive home a day earlier seems to be a wise decision. Several tornadoes touched down in the vicinity of where we were yesterday. Instead of dealing with that, we just had to suffer through 90s temperatures and gusty winds.The highlight of the day was stopping in downtown St. Louis to see the Arch. Coming into St. Louis on I-70 East, we planned to take that right to the Arch before turning onto I-64 East to Mount Vernon, Illinois. However, in the outskirts of St. Louis, we began to see detour signs indicating that I-64 East was closed. The alternate route would not take us by the Arch. We thought we had no choice but to take the detour. Well, ultimately, we discovered that the detour was not necessary, as I-64 was closed in a portion that would not affect us. So, we turned around and took our previously planned route to downtown. However, we had one last miscue (my fault) when we got off at the Arch exit and then missed the turn for the Riverfront Street and went all the way across the Mississippi River into Illinois on the MLK Bridge. We finally got turned around and found a good spot from which to view the Arch, which was impressive.
The Arch is the tallest national monument in the United States at 630 feet. Construction began February 12, 1963, and the last section of the Arch was put into place on October 28, 1965. The Arch is a structure known as a catenary curve, which is the shape a free-hanging chain takes when held at both ends, and is considered the most structurally-sound arch shape. The space between the Arch’s legs on the ground is 630 feet, the same as its height. One day, I hope to be able to go the top of the Arch and look out the observation window.
The other minor occurrence today was an encounter with a snake. At a rest stop in Missouri, just as we were getting back on the bikes, a long black snake sauntered across the parking lot toward us. Of course, I had to take a couple pictures for my wife, who just loves snakes. She would have been greatly disappointed to have missed the snake.
Today, I included a couple pictures that illustrate bike issues. First, you’ll see a photo of the bugs that stick to the headlights (same as the helmet, although I didn’t take that photo). You’ll also see a shot of the wheel lock that serves as security (which is combined with a cable lock that connects both bikes together).
I did not get a photo of the Illinois sign today, as I encountered the same issue as when we crossed into Arkansas. The state line for Illinois/Missouri is in the middle of the Mississippi River. No chance to get that shot.
We are beginning to get very excited about the trip’s conclusion. Our loved ones are anxious as well. In two days, we’ll be in back in High Point.
324.1 miles today. 6,567.5 total miles.
4 comments:
Never mind my most recent text message. Happy to hear that you have made it another safe day - even with the snake encounter.
We are suffering through the 90's as well. Yes, we are all very happy that you made a change in your plans. Just 2 more days.
Love, Mom
I have enjoyed your trip so much, and I thank you for the wonderful opportunity to share it with you. Be safe as you enter the last few miles of this marvelous adventure.
Kay Jones
Greensboro, NC
Chris,
Thank you for allowing us to live your adventure vicariously through your blog. We have all enjoyed your pictures and your stories. Please be safe as you return home. We have a cold one waiting by the pool for you.
Dan, Shannon, Rickman, Katie and Ashley
I saw the "Arch" back in 1995, when I traveled with a dear friend to Wisconsin. Missouri was one of our stops on the way. It is a stunning work of art, and no one can fathom its beauty in full till they see in person how it really looks in person. I stumbled across your pages today while surfing from the Gaston Gazette pages. Glad I found you, I'll check in often.
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