Out day started with a quick trip to the Iowa State Capitol. From there we proceeded south out of Des Moines continuing on Hwy 5 south east through Pleasantville and Albia. This was a sedate route along divided highway humming along at 100 kph. The weather (as has been typical for us) was beautiful – clear skies, mid- 20’s temperatures, low humidity, mild winds. Simply perfect!
In Albia we had a brief stop at the local Casey’s General Store – a popular convenience store chain in the mid-west – and was surprised at how busy it was. Could hardly find a place to park! We’ve noticed this chain throughout our trip, and invariably they were busy and well patronized.
At Moravia we left Hwy 5 and followed the Historic Hills Scenic Byway a surprisingly fun road with gentle sweepers over undulating hills along various county roads. An ATV club seemed to be holding an event at a local recreation area along the route. After passing Lake Sundown we picked up Hwy 202 south of Unionville.
Crossing into Missouri we stopped at Sunset View cemetery to witness the abundance of American flags on display. Today is the start of Memorial Day Weekend, which is a holiday designed to honor America’s servicemen who made the ‘ultimate sacrifice’. So flags have been very much in evidence all day. However, the number of people visiting this rural cemetery suggests that visiting deceased family members may also be a tradition on Memorial day.
Continuing south on US-63 we had two hours of ‘super slab’ on our way into Jefferson City where we ended our ride for the day.