Today’s forecast was rain. The forecast called for moderate to light rain ending by late morning. So I decided to begin phase 3 of my cycling adventure.

I donned my gear: rubber booties to keep my shoes dry, rain pants, waterproof jacket, seat cover, and helmet cover.

The morning was cool but humidity was high.  My rain suit does a good job of keeping the rain out. But it also keeps the heat in—and the sweat.  The good news is that sweat doesn’t have the soaking effect that the rain has.  As the rain began to stop, I removed the rain gear and was reasonably dry by the time I reached Baltimore.

The journey through Virginia was primarily on bike trails.  I enjoyed the cardinals, squirrels, and chipmunks frolicking in the rain.

I entered DC through Georgetown.  Sites included Georgetown University, Watergate, some of the really nice homes in that part of town, and numerous historic bars.  I appreciate DC for the exceptional bike lanes.

As I crossed into Maryland, I rode a combination of bike trails and two lane streets.

I anticipated that there would be a lot of hills today.  I conquered the early hills with relative ease. But hill climbing is progressively taxing so I had to take it easy on the Maryland hills, stopping when my heart rate monitor suggested the need for a break. I also had to work through a cramp in my hamstring. Drinking more electrolytes helped.

Even with the rain and hills, it was a good ride until I encountered a road closure near the Patapsco River near Baltimore. There was no posted detour so I had to scout it out.  My escape added 2 miles and another 500 ft of climbing. But, all in all, it was a good day one!

Tally for the day: 65 miles; 3,500 ft of climbing