I rode my bicycle across America in 1986. I wanted to see the country up close and learn about the people and the landscapes in different states from coast to coast. Although I had never been on a bike tour of any kind, I loved riding my bike; the physical and mental challenge of exploring on two wheels is endlessly invigorating. The trip would be an opportunity to simplify my existence, carry everything I needed everyday and focus on adventure instead of routine.

I was living in Portland, Oregon and I had just completed a masters program in geography. I was offered an interesting job but turned it down; I was not ready to join the conventional path. I had lived frugally during my college years and saved enough money to embark on a nomadic life.

As planning commenced, the bicycle trip became the second half of a six-month tour of America. My partner at the time, Barb, and I sketched out a plan: drive back east on a southernly route, sell my aging Mazda pickup truck, jump on our bikes and ride west on a northernly route back home. For the bike segment the goal was to ride not only from coast to coast but from Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon. With its bigger market, I sold the truck in Boston and started the bike trip riding up the Atlantic Coast to Portland.

In the end, it was an unforgettable journey. With the truck, I explored many nooks and crannies of the rocky southwest, the watery Gulf States and the angular Appalachian region. On the bicycles, there were plenty of hardships: rain, wind, searing heat, icy mornings, flat tires, uncomfortable accommodations. But the joys were plentiful: stunning scenery, uplifting encounters with local residents and fellow travelers, a positive feeling of strength and stamina, the growing confidence of overcoming daily challenges.

Over the years, looking back on the ride, I see that my experiences helped shape core parts of my inner dynamic, strength and outlook. I honed my ability for self-reliance, perseverance and approaching problems from a positive angle. Meeting different people in varied communities expanded my empathy and capacity for human interaction. Living simply and moving slowly, I learned to set aside discomfort and find ways to be present, absorb my surroundings and look beyond the obvious to discover unique qualities.

I marveled at the grandeur of pristine natural landscapes and the many forms of rural and urban built environments. I gained a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of our world and the subtleties that exist within a place. Learning about historical people and events as well as current social and environmental issues provided a broad perspective to understand and appreciate a place. Although the trip took place in 1986, the descriptions and photos reveal underlying themes of adventure, community, and self-reliance that are just as relevant today.