Day 27: Kansas Kruisin' (Scott City, KS to La Crosse, KS - 93 miles)

We got on the road before 5:15 to avoid the heat wave rolling through the plains and were moving at a pretty good clip thanks to the southwest winds. A little while into our ride, the sun began to poke its way up over the horizon, making for some stunning views.

Pat also made another quick video when we started out.

http://m.youtube.com/#/watch?feature=youtube_gdata_player&v=OOR4WYN13RU&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DOOR4WYN13RU%26feature%3Dyoutube_gdata_player

The heat moved in midway through the morning, but we managed to avoid the hottest part of the day. By 11:15, we were off our bikes and on our usual hunt for lodging. We managed to find a good deal on a motel, which we determined was exponentially more appealing than camping today because of the heat. On our way through town, we saw a sign for a pizza lunch buffet, so of course we dug in. They actually had a pretty decent salad bar, so that was a win in our books. Now we're hunkered down in the room, semi-watching the Trayvon Martin trial. We're glad we're not going into law.

The people we've met along the way here in Kansas really have been great. Folks take the time to talk to us and love sharing stories. Drivers also make sure to give us plenty of room, which is always much appreciated. We came into this trip expecting Kansas to be a low point (hot, windy, monotonous), but we've been pleasantly surprised. With the exception of long stretches with waves of manure stench, the riding has been smooth. There isn't much out here, and it's not the most appealing place we've seen in terms of scenery, but the early morning riding is second to none and the small towns are as welcoming as they come. We'll be happy to be in Missouri on Friday, but the Kansas Kruisin' won't be a bitter memory.