Day 21

Day 21: From Dodge City to Great Bend – Battling Kansas Winds and Dust Storms

Today’s journey took us 83 miles along Route 56 from Dodge City to Great Bend, Kansas. It was a day of contrasts, from the endless wheat fields and railroad tracks to the towering silos and semi-trucks that seemed to accompany us at every turn. As we pedaled through this iconic American landscape, we encountered numerous tributes to veterans and freedom, reminding us of the deep-rooted history and patriotism of the heartland.

Our first significant stop was at the Santa Fe Trail’s Historic Pawnee Rock. This monumental site, marked by a plaque erected by the Daughters of the American Revolution, offered a breathtaking view of the surrounding plains. Pawnee Rock was a crucial landmark on the Santa Fe Trail, and standing atop it, one could almost feel the echoes of the past—the pioneers, traders, and Native Americans who once traveled these lands.

Midway through our ride, we were hit by a Kansas dust storm caused by winds exceeding 30 miles per hour. The storm turned the sky a dusty brown and made every pedal stroke a struggle. The winds were relentless, but we pushed through, determined to reach our destination despite the challenging conditions.

Continuing on, we passed the sign for Midway USA, a marker of the halfway point of our journey across the country. This simple sign served as a reminder of how far we’ve come and the adventures still ahead.

We also visited St. Nicholas Cemetery, a solemn and peaceful place. The cemetery is home to a monument at the top of Pawnee Rock, another tribute to the rich history of this region and the people who shaped it.

Our ride took us through Kinsley, Kansas, famously known as the midpoint of the United States. Here, we encountered a Spirit plane passing us on the highway—a surreal and symbolic moment highlighting the intersection of modern travel and historical pathways.

No long ride would be complete without a well-deserved treat. We stopped for ice cream at Freddy’s, where a welcoming plaque of Freddy himself greeted us at the entrance. It was a delightful break from the day’s long ride, giving us a chance to recharge and reflect.

As we neared Great Bend, the sights and sounds of the road—the endless fields, the rumble of trains, and the hum of semi-trucks—formed a symphony of the American heartland. Each tribute to veterans and freedom we passed reminded us of the sacrifices made for the liberties we enjoy today.