Since it had been 104 deg. on Sunday evening, we figured it would be just as warm as we crossed the desert west of Phoenix. We got on the road by 6:15 a.m. so we’d take advantage of the cool morning temperatures. It was in the 70s at that time. Fortunately it didn’t get above the high 80s the whole day.

We stopped for coffee at mile marker 1, the last exit before crossing into California and higher gas prices. It was pretty smart to park on the shady side, wasn’t it?

Heavier traffic started as we approached Coachella, and the winds picked up the farther west we went. Coastal winds funneled between the San Bernardino Mountains and the San Jacinto Mountains in the San Gorgonio Pass are very strong and turn 2700 wind turbines in the Palm Springs Wind Farm.

We had our lunch at a rest area just before we descended down the pass.

Once we got to Beaumont, the temperature and winds dropped and we had a delightful ride into Temecula.

We parked the bikes in the garage and rode the shuttle to the main entrance and checked into our room.

The Pechanga Resort and Casino is posh.

Beth checked in at the Motor Maids registration room, then we went upstairs to the reception party.

We greeted lots of friends from all over the country and enjoyed the view of the mountains and surrounding valley (above.)

Tomorrow Beth will attend the welcome meeting in the morning and help out in the supply room in the afternoon. The group picture is schedule for 4:30 p,m. and the parade at 6:30 pm. I’m going on the men’s group ride to the coast.