Much of today was on the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail (OHT). In most places it is a side path of US-1. In other places, it follows the non-highway bridges that cross parallel to the US-1 highway bridges. Typically these are used for fishing on the sides, but it was not difficult to navigate through. In other places it is a paved trail. So far, the on-highway bridge crossings have not felt too dangerous. The shoulder is quite wide. Of course, one has to navigate broken glass, car parts, and trash, but it sure could have been worse.
My first photo stop today. It was so bright, I really couldn't tell if I had been able to capture the sign or not.
There are interpretive signs at so many road-side areas. I stopped at this one to snap a photo of the beautiful water and take a refreshment break. It never ceases to amaze me the different shades of aqua and other blues one sees.
The temp was warm, but the cross wind (heavy to the back), kept it from feeling oppressive. One can't forget that one is still losing water, and it needs to be replenished. I had one bottle with Gatorade to keep everything in check. I have found this is most helpful for me when it is above 80 degrees.
I had read that there were sections of the OHT that had been damaged with the last few hurricanes. But the tide was high as well, and I am sure there are other sections that must see water at certain high tides. I was debating whether or not to climb the bank and head to the highway. A couple coming northbound assured me that it was only about 100 more yards. The woman told me the wind was so fierce. I told her I was sorry, but it wasn't for me. I will never complain about having the wind at my back, especially if I don't have to turn around! The picture doesn't show how steep the bank was. I had to walk the bike on that slant for long enough to remember it.
A few days back I mentioned the anoles (lizards). In the Miami section, the lizards had graduated in size to 12-18-inch lizards. They may be basilisks, but this is not my specialty. But now, down here, we are into the iguanas. On one section of the OHT, there were at least a dozen. One ran first on only hind legs, looking as if standing/running, then down on the front two to scoot off the trail. Both of these last two types are not native. But one wouldn't know it based on their numbers.
We are only a tenth of a mile or so from a tiki-sports-bar/restaurant. We had a nice lunch and watched a little football. DL took a swim in the pool while I showered.
It was in the mid 80s today and hot. But by 4:30, the air conditioning was off, and we have the windows open. The breeze blowing across this narrow spit of land is absolutely delightful. I could learn to like living this way.
Here at the RV resort and our campground for the night, they have nice covered tiki area and dock. I took a moment to befriend a fellow red-head. Well, I know I don't have it now, but I still feel akin to those who have lived a good portion of their lives with red hair. (You red-heads know what I'm talking about.)
39.31 miles / 1,003.75
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