New Era, Michigan to Muskegon, Michigan - August 3, 2023

Harley Davidson Dealership Concert

Our day began with packing up and leaving the campsite after a quick breakfast consisting of food we had brought along with us - oatmeal, nut mix, and Clif Bars. I have to admit, Donald's idea to bring a stove turned out to be great. His stove had provided us with hot water for coffee and oatmeal many times during our trip. I'm strongly considering taking my Pocket Rocket stove on my next extended tour.

Holiday Camping Resort (Morning)

We put in some effort early on and biked to Whitehall to look for a place to have breakfast. Due to an conversation we were having while riding on a bicycle path, we unintentionally overshot the main part of the town. We doubled back to The Homestead Restaurant and Bakery, where we ordered large meals. As has often been the case in my life, the waitress lightly teased me, I think due to my way of ordering. She was surprised when I asked for an omelette as well as a large bowl of oatmeal. I finished almost everything, leaving only a little toast on my plate. After finishing, I could hardly stand.

We continued on to Muskegon, the starting point for our final ride. There, we asked about a campsite at Fisherman’s Landing Launch. Luckily, they had a spot available, although a sprinkler was drenching the area when we arrived. After a quick phone call, they allowed us to relocate to a drier site.

While Donald relaxed on a swing, I set up my hammock and took a nap for over an hour. It was wonderful.

Fisherman’s Landing Launch Hammock Setup

After setting up our tents, we ventured into Muskegon to find a place for dinner. We were drawn to a free concert at the Harley Davidson dealership where hard rock was the order of the day, with covers by Rush, AC/DC, and Motley Crue. Inside, we played a few rounds of a basketball hoop shoot game. Donald was disappointed with the results and suggested a physical game of one-on-one. Given the equipment, I made no comment.

By Request

We moved on to the Owl Spirit Restaurant in downtown. Over our meal, we watched as storm clouds rolled in. A powerful wind and rainstorm hit suddenly, toppling my bicycle and dislodging my basket before we could move them indoors.

We waited out the storm until after ten o'clock. We've been incredibly fortunate with the weather during our trip, always managing to find shelter.

Finally, we cycled back to our campsite at Fisherman’s Landing Launch. After a quick shower, I called it a night.

Today, we covered 35 miles by bike.