I hadn’t been particularly looking forward to the next stretch. The Great Divide Basin is notorious as a pretty hostile environment - strong winds, very little water and zero shade. It also felt like a bit of a comedown after a couple of weeks cycling through the grandeur of the mountains. But I was presently surprised. 

 

As I made my way out of town and off the paved road, the vast openness began to unfurl. However, the scenery was not at all as I was expecting. I’d pictured a featureless landscape, like a salt flats or a lunar surface but this was not the case. The Basin is flanked by hills and mountains and in the distance the snow-capped Wind River Range the ultimate prized destination. The wild horses and antelope were also welcome company. 

 

I met a Belgian guy coming the other way who looked pretty haggard, having ridden through the night to try to avoid the worst of the wind. I gave him some food and water and said it was ‘only’ 20 miles to Rawlins. 

 

Stopped at the first reliable water source, a reservoir where I had planned to spend the night. However, favourable winds meant it was only lunchtime so I decided to press on. The next water source was another 50 odd miles away but I thought I may as well try to make it there and get the majority of the Basin done in a day. A music on and head down kind of afternoon. Really nice riding into the early evening as the sun began to set. 

 

As I neared the mythical water pipe I noticed a tent pitched up nearby - it was Zach and Kara - turns out they left at 5am and had the same idea to push on through. Just about had time to get the tent up and make some food before it got dark and climbed into bed. Longest day of the trip so far - both time and distance. Good to know I’ve got that in me if I need/want to.