Pedaling from Durango to Moab (getting to the start: day 1)

Before we could start all of the fun, we needed to get our bikes and ourselves to Durango. We would be leaving our cars in Moab so all of the logistics would be on the front end, and all we would need to do once we landed in Moab was eat, sleep and drive home (after a shower and what not).
Here's a quick run down of how we did that:
Jason graciously volunteers his family sub-mini van (Mazda 5) with the caveat "I think it will work". That's the spirit man! We find out at 5:30 a.m.., when Jason and Bob meet John and I at my Palmdale compound. Not only does the van fit all four of us, our gear and our bikes, but it does it with plenty of room and comfort. Things are starting well.
The less said about the 11 or so hour drive to Moab the better. Once you clear Vegas the scenery improves continuously until you reach Moab. But 11 hours in the car is a long time.

Jason trying to keep it together; Bob with laser beam focus on road

Jason, Bob and John at a gas and food stop in Beaver

........right

Now the scenery is getting better

And better

a quick stop for some Scooby snacks just outside of Moab

Moab! (the place where motorhomes come to die.....)

I have lined us up some swanky digs for the night - Lazy Lizard Hostel......(well, the price was right anyway). Here's what we see as we roll up to "check in":

ask us about hourly rates.....

The scene inside the hostel proper was quite "international" with many different languages being spoken (all angrily) and some very relaxed staff. very relaxed. I am sure it was just a crazy Saturday, but we were glad that we had our own "house" (actually a double-wide) up the highway a bit. So up the road we went.

OK, the place WAS funky... but it was clean, well maintained, and the air conditioner worked.

Just like home - a home from 1978

John liberally interpreting the "NO BIKES IN HOUSE" sign

We had time to head into town for dinner and beers at the Moab Brewery. Surprisingly good food and great beer (pro tip: all draft beer in Utah is 3.2% alcohol. BUT you can order adult strength beer in cans and pour it into a glass - Utah.....).

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