Albert Lea – Preston - 115 km ^123
The following day my energy levels returned, and the ride turned into
an enjoyable day of cycle touring. The weather was perfect, with
scarcely any wind to speak of. A dirt track took me through farmlands
and left me highly impressed by the farming activities, which were
neat and well-organised. The homesteads all looked well-maintained
and the fields immaculate and well-tended.
Minnesota is a relatively ‘roomy’ state and I hardly saw anyone,
except a few small communities. In Preston, one could camp at the
fairground at a reasonable price (sometimes even free).
Following the usual shopping, the tent was pitched. I rarely cooked in
the US as food was always conveniently available.
Wisconsin
Preston – La Crosse - 106 km
I waited the next morning, but no one came to collect the camping
fee. Then, to my surprise and delight, I discovered a cycle path that
took me from Preston to Houston. The trail made a picturesque ride
along the Root River, and I biked through the quaintest of villages
and was delighted with the change of vistas.
Along the path, I met a lovely couple and their two-year-old son,
Alex, Jill and Lennon, who were out for the weekend. They biked from
La Crosse to Lanesboro, camped there and were on their way home
when I met them. They invited me to camp in their garden, which
became a sociable evening. Jill made a delicious supper, and we
drank a few beers. They also allowed me to use their laundry and I
had a decent scrubbing in their shower. It was all hugely appreciated.