Today was our biggest riding day (with kids) ever! We were so tired by the end of it that we hope to not repeat it.

Deception Pass was a paradise. We slept very well at the hiker/biker site that was set back from the rest of the campground. In the morning we made the decision to take a shortcut down a dune path that Google recommended. Every time we do this we are reminded that Google’s cycling directions are not to be trusted! This time it worked out beautifully, however.

We rode down a lovely paved path next to the ocean until it ended. Then it was a struggle fest over a sandy path until we reached a private gravel road. It was gorgeous, but there was definitely some fear we’d be trapped when we reached the exit and saw a big gate! It opened automatically as we approached, however. The desire for convenience of motorists helped us out a lot for once!

We stopped for lunch at Joseph Whidbey State Park, where we met Jason’s aunt and enjoyed one of the lowest tides of the year. The kids loved playing in the sand and we ate to the bottom of the lunch bag – including a Cheetos burrito!

It was a bit of a struggle fest to the next landmark – the grocery store in Coupeville. Specifically, there was a very steep hill that required grown ups to push and kids to walk… But we made it and discussed perseverance AGAIN.

After eating a GIANT snack at the grocery store we powered through to the ferry landing. The kids got fourth of July cookies there that definitely ruined their dinner but oh well.

By the time we finally rolled into camp we were thoroughly exhausted. The kids however were wild! We rolled right into a hiker/biker site and were all asleep well before any fireworks started.