Tired from the previous days long hot drive we did not spend much of the past evening exploring Sioux Falls and the morning found us at our typical first stop – an independent coffee shop. In my efforts to show the Dutchies real America I have tried to locate independently owned shops for coffee, food and beer. Often, it is quite difficult as corporate american franchises have pushed out independents and replaced them with the more fashionable and advertised brands. Within the first few days of our adventure Dinky and Cor discovered Walmart and were hypnotized by the enormous stores and seemingly low prices. Only after some discussion about Walmarts destruction of down-town America and some sick stomachs from old food, has that desire faded. This days lunch stop was one of the best so far. Grinders Deli, located in Austin MN was a bit difficult to find as it looked like another house on the block. Fresh baked bread and quality ingredients were enjoyed along with some micro brew on there relaxing patio. Around the corner but the other end of the spectrum was the Spam Museum. A garish “museum” created to promote a hideous meat product created from slaughterhouse scraps. Fortunately it was free entrance and no samples were offered. We pulled into Madison WI quite late and tired from another day on the road – but Madison has fantastic beer – so out we went. Our first stop was a bite at a quite fine Indian restaurant the the first beers were had at Ale Asylum (aleasylum.com ) where we met the enthusiastic brewmaster who was eager to give us a tour. After some great microbrew, we were told we had to also visit The Malt House (malthousetavern.com) who, while now brewers, did stock some amazing local and european beer.
Total Distance: 702.52 km (436.5 mi)
Total Time: 9:08:04
Moving Time: 6:26:47
Average Speed: 76.91 km/h (47.8 mi/h)
Average Moving Speed: 108.98 km/h (67.7 mi/h)
Max Speed: 133.91 km/h (83.2 mi/h)
Min Elevation: 171 m (562 ft)
Max Elevation: 488 m (1602 ft)
Elevation Gain: 1836 m (6025 ft)
Max Grade: 11 %
Min Grade: -5 %
