Eureka, NV

The route today reached four different summits to arrive in Eureka after 68 miles. It was another beautiful weather day, clear skies and lower temperatures with light winds from the north. To be honest there was nothing remarkable about the ride or the day other than the inherent unique experience of cycling through such beautiful remote country. There is literally no real intrusion of humans beyond the road itself for miles. Even wildlife sightings have been rare although we did see a kit fox cross the road early in the morning. We are staying in the town of Eureka, population of 860. It is the county center of government and the provider of services for the surrounding 50 mile radius. It was originally another mining town. Much of the main street is lined with restored historic buildings including an opera house and old hotels and saloons. As we have observed all across the country many local businesses have gone out of business or are for sale. One assumes they are victims of the current economy, although this part of Nevada is not on the popular tourist routes. At the same time there has been plenty of public investment in government facilities in Eureka so it is holding its own.