bobthib, I suggest reading some books on training. The Cyclist's Training Bible is a good place to start. The best is to hire a coach and learn about the sport and training. IMO, a 38 mile ride will add to fatigue and will not promote recovery. Active recovery is about keeping the level of effort low while pumping more blood through the system to facilitate recovery. That will theoretically promote recovery better than total rest. High cadence at very low power for 40 minutes is the ticket.

Now there is absolutely nothing wrong with riding hard for 78 miles and then riding 38 miles the next day easier. It is just two endurance rides back to back.