My new tire holds up well this morning. When I reach Humbolt Redwoods State Park I exit 101 for the much more peaceful Avenue of the Giants highway.

I ride slowly between the toes of the of the giant redwoods for most of the day, swathed in their mighty shadows. At one point a guy on a scooter with a big bag hanging off it passes me. He’s pushing himself from Arcata to San Francisco on that thing. He doesn’t talk long – his work is cut out for him to make the next campground by dark.

Once out of the redwoods I ride quickly to Fortuna, then follow directions to my Mom’s friend Maryann’s house where I am greeted by my parents.