Gulf Shores, AL to Fort Walton Beach, FL Distance: 74.5 miles
The day started out with a distinct challenge—the chilly kind! We clipped in at Gulf Shores with the thermometer hovering right around 40°F. Definitely a morning for the winter cycling gear, but the promise of sunshine and a beautiful coastal route kept our legs turning. By midday, the temperature had climbed to a much more manageable mid-50s°F, and the ride warmed up considerably.
The absolute highlight of the day was the stretch through the Gulf Islands National Seashore Park. It was simply breathtaking. The beautiful, pristine sandy beaches, towering dunes, and the mesmerizingly blue water of the Gulf of Mexico provided a stunning backdrop that made the chilly start worthwhile. This wasn't just a bike ride; it was a scenic tour of one of America's most beautiful coastlines.
The route through the Seashore also meant we tackled several long bridges, which, despite the effort, gave us spectacular, sweeping views of the Gulf. These crossings truly underscored the journey, carrying us from island to island.
The generosity we encounter on this journey continues to astound us. Today, we were graciously hosted indoors for our lunch stop by the wonderful people at the Pensacola Beach Community Church. A huge thank you to Pastor Jim, who was incredibly kind and even gave us a thoughtful prayer sendoff for safety as we head into the final leg of the trip.
Now that we've made it to Fort Walton Beach, the chapter on the immediate coast closes. Tomorrow, for Day 39, we turn our handlebars North toward Chipley, FL. It's a longer 86-mile route with a bit more climbing, but the forecast promises warmer temperatures—a welcome change as we head inland!
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