Day Seven: A Scenic Ride from Scottsdale NV to Grants NM

6/10/20241 min read

a group of people ride on a motorcycle down a street
a group of people ride on a motorcycle down a street

Today marks the seventh day of my motorcycle adventure, and it was quite a ride! I journeyed from Scottsdale, AZ to Grants, NM, covering a considerable distance over some stunning landscapes. Let me take you through the highlights of the day.

Leaving Scottsdale

I kicked off the day in Scottsdale, where the temperature was a warm 93 degrees. As I set out in the morning, the sun was already high in the sky, promising a hot day ahead. But motorcycles have a way of making you feel connected to the environment, and I was eager to embrace the elements and the open road.

Through the Mountains

An hour into the ride, the temperature pleasantly dipped into the 80s as we started ascending through the mountains. The change in scenery was refreshing, with the arid desert giving way to lush greenery and rocky outcrops. The twisty roads and elevated terrain made for a thrilling ride, and the cool mountain air was a welcome respite from the earlier heat.

The Interstate 40 Experience

We eventually merged onto Interstate 40, and what a relief it was to experience a tailwind! With the posted speed limit at 75 mph, the wind at our backs made the ride smooth and less strenuous. The interstate offered long, straight stretches that allowed for some moments of reflection while maintaining a steady pace.

First Time Zone Change

A notable milestone today was encountering my first time zone change of the trip. Crossing from Arizona into New Mexico, I had to set my watch forward by an hour. It was a small but significant reminder of how far I’ve traveled and how many more adventures await.

Arrival in Grants

As the sun began to set, I rolled into Grants, NM, tired but exhilarated. The day's ride was long, but the diverse landscapes and the sense of freedom that comes with motorcycling made it all worthwhile. Grants is a charming town, and I look forward to exploring it more tomorrow.

Stay tuned for more updates on my motorcycle adventure as I continue to explore new horizons!