Yesterday I got home from a 15 day ride, 4471 miles ride. I followed the Pony Express all the way to Sacramento California. I rode in high winds, 100 degree temperature (humid and dry), below freezing temperatures, rain, snow, sand, mud and dust on my way west. In other words, the type of weather the Pony Riders went though with the exception of below 0 weather.
If you ever want some alone time in the saddle follow the pony however, make sure you can can go at least 200 (250 is better) miles between stations.
A few pictures:
Oregon Trail wagon ruts:
MUD! Standing bike is not using a kickstand
It was a incredible trip.