So I totally underestimated the distance...

[Jolt]

Oh yeah, I've done something similar. Word to the wise: even if you do use mapquest/google maps to gauge the distance of a route, pay attention to the shape of the roads on the map. Squiggly lines usually mean hills!

In any case, good for you for sticking with it and now you know you can do it!

One good thing is that the hill factor wasn't bad at all on this trip--it could have been a lot worse, considering the area! There were some gradual ups and downs but nothing major; the worst hills were the ones close to home that I have to deal with all the time!

[kfergos]

I'm sure you ladies already know about the miracle that is Map My Ride, but if you don't, you should definitely check it out: http://www.mapmyride.com/ Not only can you click along roads to show your exact route, but it automatically fits your route to those roads. And, best of all, it tells the exact elevation and shows your elevation profile, as well as telling you exact distance!

Let me just say that this is the most fun I've had on a web site in a long, long time, and it enabled me to find a backroads route all the way from my work to my home: http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united...ster/601475168