Day 15

Milestones and Memories: Day 15 from Santa Fe to Las Vegas

Day 15 of our cycling odyssey marked a milestone as we crossed the 1000-mile mark, a testament to our endurance and determination. Our route took us from the heights of Glorieta Pass, a challenging climb at 7570 feet, to the historic sights of Las Vegas, New Mexico. It was a day filled with scenic wonders, cultural discoveries, and unexpected encounters as we pedaled through picturesque landscapes and quaint towns.

Our journey commenced with a challenging ascent to Glorieta Pass, standing tall at 7570 feet, where we were greeted by awe-inspiring panoramic views. Along the way, we were privileged to explore the ancient Pecos Indian Ruins, a poignant testament to the rich history of this land. As we stood in reverence before the remnants of a bygone era, we were filled with a profound sense of awe and respect for the civilizations that once thrived here.

Our route took us through the charming town of Las Vegas, New Mexico, where history came alive at the Historic Plaza Hotel. It was here that scenes from the iconic film “No Country for Old Men” were filmed, adding a touch of cinematic allure to our journey. As we wandered the streets of the historic district, we were transported back in time to a bygone era of cowboys, outlaws, and rugged frontier life.

Amidst the sights and sounds of Las Vegas, we took a well-deserved break for lunch at a local pizza bar, where we shared stories and laughter with cycling friends. But our day took an unexpected turn when we learned that park rangers had captured a rattlesnake at the Pecos Indian Ruins, a reminder of the wild beauty and untamed wilderness that surrounds us.

As we rode into Las Vegas, we were greeted by the sight of the Memorial to All Nations, a symbol of unity and diversity in a world of ever-changing borders and boundaries. It was a fitting backdrop for our celebration of reaching the 1000-mile mark, a testament to our perseverance and determination in the face of challenges.

As we concluded our day’s ride, exhausted but exhilarated, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride in how far we had come. From the rugged terrain of Glorieta Pass to the historic streets of Las Vegas, New Mexico, each mile had been a journey of discovery and adventure. We had pushed our limits, experienced the thrill of the unknown, and witnessed the beauty of nature and human history. As we looked ahead to the road that lay before us, we knew that the best was yet to come, fueling our passion for cycling and exploration.