America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride 2013

We have lived in the Bay Area for going on 5 years now, and we have only been to Lake Tahoe a couple of times - once in summer when Matt got sick and we had to go home, and once in the winter. That's all I remember at least. We've been to the Truckee area a few times also but not to the Lake on those visits. I am pretty sure we are crazy. Lake Tahoe is awesome.

Saturday: a little relaxation time at the beach.


Sunday: A 72 mile ride around the lake, AMBBR 2013. The first 40 miles were amazing! The last 30 a little less so, due to my poor preparation and some possible altitude issues. But still amazing.

Still fresh at mile 13, overlooking Emerald Bay.

(Photo courtesy of Laura Marshall)


(Photo courtesy of Laura Marshall)


(Photo courtesy of Laura Marshall)

Somewhere in California (I think):

(Photo courtesy of Joseph Torralba)


(Photo courtesy of Joseph Torralba)

Lunch stop at King's Beach:


Beginning the climb to Spooner Junction:


Finished! (With some speedy friends who arrived an hour before us, but kindly waited for us anyway):

(Photo courtesy of Lais Oliveira)

Sunday: Some more beach time at Zephyr Cove, including track ball and frisbee. And finally, mini-golf!

(Photo courtesy of Lais Oliveira)



Nearly everyone we know who rides a bike was there. We shared a house with three friends, saw numerous others out on the course, had some drinks and laughs with others after the event, and even somehow missed seeing some people entirely. The weather was perfectly sunny and about 80 degrees. It turns out property is actually strangely affordable, so research will begin on our vacation home... Since we can't afford a house in the Bay Area, maybe we can claim it is our primary residence?

Thanks to everyone who helped make our weekend enjoyable, and especially to those who planned it for us. You rock!