Biking across America this fall: doable?

[andersbrett]

I am very interested in biking the TransAmerica Trail, from West to East, this fall. According to the Adventure Cycling website, "This route can be ridden from May through September." Do you think if I begin September 20 I can make it? I'd like to average 40 - 60 miles/day but will do more if necessary.

[aggie]

You might make it before the snow starts to fall in the Rockies.  I'd check the weather history for the passes to see when the first snow starts to fall.  I don't know what the weather in the east will be like but I'd bet it will be cold and possibly wet. 

[dubovsmj]

sure, it's doable.
but as enjoyable as say doing it BETWEEN  may and september months? 
prob not. 
esp if you're doing 40-60 miles a day, that'll take you several months to do the entire trans am route, which puts you in virginia late december?
just something to think about

michael

[johnsondasw]

I'd go for it.  You may get some interesting weather challenges you would not have in the summer, but if you're flexible you can adjust to them.  Have fun!

[litespeed]

Brace yourself for very cold weather at any appreciable altitude. I crossed the US in October-December going as far south as possible -along the Mexican border and Gulf of Mexico -and still had some subfreezing weather at night and morning. Colorado will be a real challenge for you. Have warm clothing.

[valygrl]

I'm going to add my vote to the "too late" camp.  Late September is already too late to get decent weather in the rockies (not just CO, but Idaho, Montana and Wyoming as well).    You would need to plan on plenty of rain/snow days, below freezing camping, and add short days to the mix.  If that's your time window, I'd say do the Southern Tier for sure.

[andersbrett]

Thanks for all the advice and encouragement! I've decided to do the Southern Tier. Not quite as appealing as TransAmerica to me, but I think I'll still love it. I think the Southern Tier will be much more enjoyable at this time of year.

[staehpj1]

Thanks for all the advice and encouragement! I've decided to do the Southern Tier. Not quite as appealing as TransAmerica to me, but I think I'll still love it. I think the Southern Tier will be much more enjoyable at this time of year.

A good choice given when you are going.  Have a great trip.