Chinle Arizona to Cortez Colorado
Today we thought we could get two rides in because of where our next rides are, but Mother Nature had other plans. We left the reservation about 8 am and after a few stops along the roadside to adjust things, we were ready to start this ride. It was cloudy when we woke up, but the streets were dry. But you could see showers all around us.
We road through the valley and took some photos and 50 miles later in Mexican Hat Utah and we were done with this ride. Next ride starts in Cortez CO 180 miles away and goes through Telluride CO to Placerville CO – easy if the weather can hold, which is always iffy in the Rockies.
We get within 12 miles from Cortez and see a wall of water out in the distance. So we stop on the side of the road to get our gear buttoned up and want to get to town to make some decisions….
Well, we approach the wall of water and seem to get through the first wave as it then lets up a bit and I could pick up some speed. Then it start coming down harder.. we slow down, we see lighten and hear the booms all around us.
I see what I thought was white foam on the side of the road as the road was getting covered in heavy water and we were getting pelted. I feel the bike get a little goosy under me, thinking I was starting a bit of hydroplaning. Then I see we are actually getting pelted with hail! And that was not white foam and was not hydroplaning but the small hail was like marbles under the tires and the road was COVERED now with hail – it all happened and came so fast. We ease to the side of the road while feeling the tires moving under us.
Even on the side of the road, traction on your feet to try to keep the bike upright was giving way under the hailstones….
We wait about 10 minutes getting soaked as the hail storm turns back to a downpour and the slush on the road starts to melt. But the damage was done as we were cold with wet gloves and decided to stay in Cortez for the day and night, dry out and start early tomorrow.
Oh my gosh, such gorgeous pictures of monument valley. The mittens! Wise choice to stay the night in Cortez. Glad you made it there safely. 😬
Thank you for sharing your adventures. The topography of the roads look like so much fun!!
Thanks for doing my “bucket list “!
The pictures are beautiful and it’s so inspiring to see you with your bikes.
I can’t imagine going the mileage you’re putting on everyday and being “one” with nature, especially whatever curveball, …rain, hail, ..the weather throws at you! Truly amazing 🤩
Thanks for checking in on us!
Another WOW day for scenic surroundings!!! Utah really IS an outdoor museum. I’ve only ever been through on the train and a bus, but that whole area is on my bucket list. So I can tick off a vicarious trip anyway. As the others said, good decision to stay put. You chose a great place to stay – I LOVE the Retro Inn💖 Hope the beds weren’t so retro, though😄