Day 36 – July 9 – Dalbo, MN to Crystal, MN- 63 Miles

We rose about 7:00 and helped ourselves to breakfast at the Bunkhouse.   Nick Matteson and Dave Jelsma, the other cyclists sharing the bunkhouse, were headed toward Minneapolis, St. Paul area as well.  Donn Olsen gave us tips and route information for getting to our different destinations in the area. We were on the road by 9:15 headed southbound on route 47 with a nice tailwind.

We coordinated a meeting spot with Matt Smelser in the north suburb of Anoka via text messaging.  Matt cycled north to meet us and guide us to his home in Crystal via the network of cycling routes and paths that have been incorporated into the Hennepin County infrastructure.  If you go to Google Maps, focus on the Minneapolis, St. Paul area and select the option to show bicycling routes you will get an idea of the work that has gone into making the area one of the top bicycle friendly communities in the country.

Our highlight of the day was arriving at the Smelser home in Crystal, we were graciously welcomed by Christina, Anna and William.  Matt had told us that Anna had been so excited that we were coming, while a little shy at first she warmed up quickly.  We look forward to spending our rest day at their home tomorrow.  We have been on the road for five weeks, it is great to be with family.