Day 10: Thursday, 05/17/18, Memphis to Ripley, TN

Map of today's ride:

Distance of Today's Ride: 80.0 miles

Trip Total Distance: 670.3 miles

Elevation Gain:  2730 feet

Riding Time:  5:22 hrs:mins

The weather forecast today stated there was up to a 60% chance of rain as the day progressed.  During the ride, it was primarily cloudy and temps cooler (78-83 degrees).  Fortunately, we completed our ride without rain showers.  This afternoon, as we were entering our room at the Day's Inn in Ripley, Tennessee, the wind became very strong and dark clouds rolled in with some rain falling. The weather from last week has definitely changed and the forecast for tomorrow is a repeat of today.

The roads in Tennessee have been excellent so far.  They have been very smooth and for the majority of the ride we peddled on secondary roads with very low traffic.  This is a major improvement compared to Louisiana and Mississippi. 

We have only a few pictures to share today:

The Shelby Forest General Store was across the street from our first SAG stop today.  This SAG location was more of an exception than the rule... the store had a bathroom that we were able to use!  The inside of the store was very clean and the food looked really good.  There were several gentleman at the counter enjoying a hot fresh breakfast.  The Shelby Forest General Store is also known for their hamburgers and Friday steak night.

We thought this was a pretty setting.  To the left of the picture was a beautiful home.  We assume the home owners walk across the bridge to their own private island.

This was the setting upon arrival at the hotel tonight.  Note the dark skies! The owners had placed a WELCOME sign for the group.  

Location, location, location!!!  Dad was very happy to walk across the street from the motel this afternoon for his chocolate milkshake!