Inspiration for Change

Specialized Hard Rock, outfitted for travel.

The older some people get, the more they're resistant to change. I get it, to an extent. I can't imagine moving again, living through another pandemic, necessitating finding a new job - that was quite the ordeal - all three at once! But because health and travel is precious  -we're in our 60s and 70s - I've become more flexible with route choice, even with limited vacation time. 

Choosing local travel helps, barring, of course, unpredictable weather. I'm willing to deviate from a planned route if an opportunity arises. We did just that in 2023. Current thoughts involve switching this summer's planned in-state vacation (flooded trail for 2 years), pivoting to attempt the VTXL. 

My husband and I recently attended an inspiring presentation on bike travel. Among other adventures discussed, I'd known about the VTXL, on my radar for a while, but didn't think I could pull it off until I was retired. It's hilly and mostly dirt, with elevation thrown in, but it's not particularly difficult terrain or remote, and lends itself to wild camping. I've been encouraged that my Hard Rock should handle the route just fine. Ample vacation time, Amtrak, a bus, and pedaling may help access the start/finish, as neither end is served by public transportation. While feasible, we always have the fallback east/west loop route option. It's wonderful to have choices. Either will provide the flavor of self-supported touring as a couple - something I always look forward to!