Miles 59.7
Ride time 3:31
Elevation gain 213'
Total miles for trip 1769.4
Total elevation gain for trip 55,303'
Today I tried every trick in the book to see if I could convince Patty and Denise that Jennifer should ride not Sag...no go on that one. I rode out with Amy and Sherry towards Fargo. We were cruising along and we got to the first Sag stop at 20 miles pretty quickly. Amy decided she didn't want to ride that fast and I wanted to ride in with her so we picked a slower pace. We were lucky with a great route in. We had very little traffic and very nice roads. It was a really nice last days ride.
I told Judy that I would call at about 25 miles out so she could get there with her Mom and Carol. They were to meet me at the hotel.
We had our last Sag at 40, I ate a very disgusting variety of junk food..this diet will come to an abrupt end when I get off the bike! But I enjoyed cookies, chips, real coke and sweetened Graham crackers all without guilt.
After that Sag, I started to get excited about getting in. I just started cruising again about 20mph...I think I realized I wanted to be done and I wanted to see Judy. So I hauled along with a mission. I stopped to to call her to tell I was about 3 miles out, but she did not pick up. So I just kept on. I came off of CR 81 near the airport. I crossed over by some RR tracks and off to left I saw a car and some people. I wondered what they were doing, maybe some workers. I got closer and I realized it was Carol's car and here was Judy, her Mom, Rylinn and Carol all waiting for me to come in. It was so wonderful! What a surprise. After big hugs, I took off to finish and meet them at the end. As I got ready to,leave, Amy pulled up which was awesome. We rode in together into downtown Fargo. As we got the hotel, my cheering committee had made a big sign welcoming me and congratulating me for finishing the ride. It was so very sweet.
I am glad to have completed this ride safetly and without even one flat-pretty amazing after all of the junk we rode through.
I came back for the final banquet, with an early meeting of a few of us in the hotel bar. It was a fun time, then we went to the banquet. It was nice, kind of sad to say goodbye, but I am glad to have met some new friends and to have spent time with friends that I had met previously.
My thoughts and prayers to Barbara's family. Stay safe everyone!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Carrington to Mayville, ND
Miles 91.5
Ride time 4:42
Elevation gain 888'
We have had a GI bug going around the group for some time. This morning, Jennifer was the latest to fall victim to it. She did not feel well enough to ride. I was feeling anxious about the road conditions with some areas of no shoulder and the possibility of increased truck traffic. I started out with Amy and Patty, then found that I just wanted to ride, maybe by myself today. The road was flat and pretty fast. I was just cruising along and before I knew it, I had caught up with Sherry, who was on the front of the group. We rode together to the first Sag stop. Amy then joined us as Patty was only ridng the first 25 miles. So the three of us decided to pace line in. We each took a turn at the front for a two mile stretch. It was really fun because we just motored our way along.
The road was way better that I thought. There was hardly any traffic, and any vehicles that came by gave us lots of space. We had pretty decent winds helping us as well. So it was a fun day. I have never ridden this far in such a short amount of time. I guess it helps when there are no hills to climb.
We were out in farmland with golden fields of wheat and super tall cornfields. We saw a deer looking out from some tall brush as we went by. Mostly, I just had toy attention to the wheel in front of me and to my mirror for any upcoming traffic. The focus was really cool and made the miles go by pretty quick. The person who is in the back usually works about 30% less than the one at the front of the line. By taking turns every 2 miles, we would "pull" then get a rest while the next person moved up to the front position.
We had our last meal out of the trailer tonight. Tomorrow we will get into Fargo and have our banquet in the hotel with real chairs and we dont't have to stack them after we are done eating...we may have to think twice about that one!
Judy is in Fargo now. She came in today. I can't wait to see her It will be so great to see all of her family, too. Charlie will ride in with me, he has been with me on my bike for this trip of almost 1800 miles. I know he will be smiling as we all roll in safely tomorrow!
Ride time 4:42
Elevation gain 888'
We have had a GI bug going around the group for some time. This morning, Jennifer was the latest to fall victim to it. She did not feel well enough to ride. I was feeling anxious about the road conditions with some areas of no shoulder and the possibility of increased truck traffic. I started out with Amy and Patty, then found that I just wanted to ride, maybe by myself today. The road was flat and pretty fast. I was just cruising along and before I knew it, I had caught up with Sherry, who was on the front of the group. We rode together to the first Sag stop. Amy then joined us as Patty was only ridng the first 25 miles. So the three of us decided to pace line in. We each took a turn at the front for a two mile stretch. It was really fun because we just motored our way along.
The road was way better that I thought. There was hardly any traffic, and any vehicles that came by gave us lots of space. We had pretty decent winds helping us as well. So it was a fun day. I have never ridden this far in such a short amount of time. I guess it helps when there are no hills to climb.
We were out in farmland with golden fields of wheat and super tall cornfields. We saw a deer looking out from some tall brush as we went by. Mostly, I just had toy attention to the wheel in front of me and to my mirror for any upcoming traffic. The focus was really cool and made the miles go by pretty quick. The person who is in the back usually works about 30% less than the one at the front of the line. By taking turns every 2 miles, we would "pull" then get a rest while the next person moved up to the front position.
We had our last meal out of the trailer tonight. Tomorrow we will get into Fargo and have our banquet in the hotel with real chairs and we dont't have to stack them after we are done eating...we may have to think twice about that one!
Judy is in Fargo now. She came in today. I can't wait to see her It will be so great to see all of her family, too. Charlie will ride in with me, he has been with me on my bike for this trip of almost 1800 miles. I know he will be smiling as we all roll in safely tomorrow!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Spirit Lake to Carrington, ND
HAPPY BIRTHDAY CAROL!!!
Miles 49.2
Ride time 3:07
Elevation gain 677'
We left Spirit Lake this morning after a wait for the rain to stop. We had a good downpour this morning. Then it stopped so we headed out. All it took for the rain to stop was for everyone to put on all of their rain gear. We took ours off and put ours in the Sag just in case. Of course the wet roads dirtied up the bikes...we would spend time cleaning them up at the end of the day. It warmed up and turned out to be a pretty nice day, although we didn't have any fun tailwinds. That translated into us having to actually pedal the whole way.
We came upon a sign that said that we were crossing the Continental Divide. It almost seemed like a joke, but we looked it up and it is the northern contiential divide. It seems that it had more to do with land ownership during the fur trading years that an actual geographical feature. None the less, we got the picture to prove it.
The coolest thing we saw today was a herd of Bison. We saw them off to our left in this big pasture. We rode over to look at them. It was a herd of about 20-25. They are enormous. The herd had many young babies and the moms were not all that pleased to have us nearby. They swishes their tails then herded the little ones to the center. They moved away from us as one big tight group. Suddenly, they all started galloping away. It must have been quite a sight to have thousands of them running like that across the plains.
We got into Carrington and found our hotel. We we able to get into our rroms right away. It was great since we were pretty grimey from the wet roads we had ridden on earlier. We cleaned up and went on our food quest. We had a nice meal across the street. Then it was time for bike cleaning. Everyone was doing the same thing. The front of the hotel looked like a bike mechanic convention. I cleaned the grime off my bike, lubed the chain and hope that that will hold me until we get into Fargo. We are winding down. The old bod has held out well
Miles 49.2
Ride time 3:07
Elevation gain 677'
We left Spirit Lake this morning after a wait for the rain to stop. We had a good downpour this morning. Then it stopped so we headed out. All it took for the rain to stop was for everyone to put on all of their rain gear. We took ours off and put ours in the Sag just in case. Of course the wet roads dirtied up the bikes...we would spend time cleaning them up at the end of the day. It warmed up and turned out to be a pretty nice day, although we didn't have any fun tailwinds. That translated into us having to actually pedal the whole way.
We came upon a sign that said that we were crossing the Continental Divide. It almost seemed like a joke, but we looked it up and it is the northern contiential divide. It seems that it had more to do with land ownership during the fur trading years that an actual geographical feature. None the less, we got the picture to prove it.
The coolest thing we saw today was a herd of Bison. We saw them off to our left in this big pasture. We rode over to look at them. It was a herd of about 20-25. They are enormous. The herd had many young babies and the moms were not all that pleased to have us nearby. They swishes their tails then herded the little ones to the center. They moved away from us as one big tight group. Suddenly, they all started galloping away. It must have been quite a sight to have thousands of them running like that across the plains.
We got into Carrington and found our hotel. We we able to get into our rroms right away. It was great since we were pretty grimey from the wet roads we had ridden on earlier. We cleaned up and went on our food quest. We had a nice meal across the street. Then it was time for bike cleaning. Everyone was doing the same thing. The front of the hotel looked like a bike mechanic convention. I cleaned the grime off my bike, lubed the chain and hope that that will hold me until we get into Fargo. We are winding down. The old bod has held out well
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Rugby to Spirit Lake, ND
Miles 82.1
Ride time 5:05
Elevation gain 1508'
Today we left the town of Rugby and headed south on highway 3. It was a lovely ride today. There was virtually no traffic and the scenery was the most beautiful I have seen in North Dakota. We passed so many fields of wheat, canola and flax. All along the roadway wildflowers of all kinds including wild sunflowers, echinacea, and Mexican hat. I was amazed at all of the wetland areas full of all kinds of birds.
We had little wind and a very nice temperature for riding . We had a Sag stop at this place that said it was a Bison ranch. We strained our eyes to see some, but all we saw was hay bales and cows! We saw these huge round uniform piles of hay all in a row. Jennifer said they made with a special machine and the farmers can feed a lot of cows that way.
We rode into the Spirit Lake/Devils Lake area. The Native Americans called it Spirit Lake, but the White Man decided it was a bad spirit so they call it Devils Lake. The lake is very large. It is the largest natural body of water in North Dakota. We came in along one side and we were right at waterline for quite a few miles as we headed towards the resort.
Admittedly, after staying at the Indian Casino in New Town, I had low expectations. But the place is not bad. It sits overlooking the lake. The casino is smokey, but the rooms are clean and large.
They have a large indoor pool and a tall waterside. After riding in the sun, Jennifer and I thought we would go to the pool before all of the kids show up, like they have at almost every other pool during this trip. We looked in at it was almost empty. We quickly cleaned up, got our suits on and went in. We decide it would be fun to try the water slide. We climbed up all the stairs and read the instructions to go feet first, cross hands and feet-got it. Jennifer went first. I wait a couple of seconds, then climbed in and started sliding down. Faster and faster I went, a combination of luge and being shot out of rifle. I started to go so fast as I circled around and around that I thought I might flip right on out the side. I hit the water an an ungodly speed and got a full noseful of water. We both decided that once was enough. Maybe that this was really designed for smaller children, not larger adults!
So a few more days of riding. Rose, I'll be seeing you soon!
Ride time 5:05
Elevation gain 1508'
Today we left the town of Rugby and headed south on highway 3. It was a lovely ride today. There was virtually no traffic and the scenery was the most beautiful I have seen in North Dakota. We passed so many fields of wheat, canola and flax. All along the roadway wildflowers of all kinds including wild sunflowers, echinacea, and Mexican hat. I was amazed at all of the wetland areas full of all kinds of birds.
We had little wind and a very nice temperature for riding . We had a Sag stop at this place that said it was a Bison ranch. We strained our eyes to see some, but all we saw was hay bales and cows! We saw these huge round uniform piles of hay all in a row. Jennifer said they made with a special machine and the farmers can feed a lot of cows that way.
We rode into the Spirit Lake/Devils Lake area. The Native Americans called it Spirit Lake, but the White Man decided it was a bad spirit so they call it Devils Lake. The lake is very large. It is the largest natural body of water in North Dakota. We came in along one side and we were right at waterline for quite a few miles as we headed towards the resort.
Admittedly, after staying at the Indian Casino in New Town, I had low expectations. But the place is not bad. It sits overlooking the lake. The casino is smokey, but the rooms are clean and large.
They have a large indoor pool and a tall waterside. After riding in the sun, Jennifer and I thought we would go to the pool before all of the kids show up, like they have at almost every other pool during this trip. We looked in at it was almost empty. We quickly cleaned up, got our suits on and went in. We decide it would be fun to try the water slide. We climbed up all the stairs and read the instructions to go feet first, cross hands and feet-got it. Jennifer went first. I wait a couple of seconds, then climbed in and started sliding down. Faster and faster I went, a combination of luge and being shot out of rifle. I started to go so fast as I circled around and around that I thought I might flip right on out the side. I hit the water an an ungodly speed and got a full noseful of water. We both decided that once was enough. Maybe that this was really designed for smaller children, not larger adults!
So a few more days of riding. Rose, I'll be seeing you soon!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Minot to Rugby, ND
Miles 68.6
Ride time 4:25
Elevation gain 695'
Miles total to date 1537.8
Elevation gain to date 52,110'
It had rained last night, but it was clearing as we left town this morning. Our route took us on several back roads to get us out of town. It was pretty quiet with not much traffic. We crossed over quite a few railroad tracks and then went by a big train switching yard. After our many lefts and rights, we finally were back on Highway 2. It was a pretty flat ride today. The winds neither helped or hindered us. The thing about the flats is you have to keep on pedeling, no downhills to cruise on.
We passed along some pretty flax fields, some corn and quite a few wetland areas, complete with cattails and some even had baby ducks swimming in them. I heard a hawk today, took it as a good sign. Judy's sign was watching over me today. Thanks Sweetie!
We came upon an area where they had diverted the traffic to only the two lanes on our side for both directions. It was a little too cozy with some of the traffic since we had a very small shoulder. Jennifer and I decided since they weren't using the other side-it was closed to all traffic, that we would use it. It was gravel in some spots...more cyclocross action at times, but we had the whole other side to ourselves for a few miles, no worry of any traffic. We rode that until it was too rough. We then got back on the constricted road, but it was only for a couple of miles, then the construction was over and it went back to a four lane divided highway.
It got hotter and more humid as the day went on. We got into Rugby, which is the geographic center of North America. They have this big stone sign in town so we all stopped and had our pictures taken with it. Today we saw quite a few other cyclists who were all fully loaded for touring.
We met a guy who was riding from Seatle to Maine by himself. He stopped at our Sag stop and we gave him some water and snacks. We saw some others too, two couples who were traveling along the same route as us. I felt so pampered since we don't have to carry anything but water and snacks!
Tomorrow we have a longer day so we will be and out early. We are gong to start to stair step east and south now on our way to Fargo. We will hope for favorable winds!
Ride time 4:25
Elevation gain 695'
Miles total to date 1537.8
Elevation gain to date 52,110'
It had rained last night, but it was clearing as we left town this morning. Our route took us on several back roads to get us out of town. It was pretty quiet with not much traffic. We crossed over quite a few railroad tracks and then went by a big train switching yard. After our many lefts and rights, we finally were back on Highway 2. It was a pretty flat ride today. The winds neither helped or hindered us. The thing about the flats is you have to keep on pedeling, no downhills to cruise on.
We passed along some pretty flax fields, some corn and quite a few wetland areas, complete with cattails and some even had baby ducks swimming in them. I heard a hawk today, took it as a good sign. Judy's sign was watching over me today. Thanks Sweetie!
We came upon an area where they had diverted the traffic to only the two lanes on our side for both directions. It was a little too cozy with some of the traffic since we had a very small shoulder. Jennifer and I decided since they weren't using the other side-it was closed to all traffic, that we would use it. It was gravel in some spots...more cyclocross action at times, but we had the whole other side to ourselves for a few miles, no worry of any traffic. We rode that until it was too rough. We then got back on the constricted road, but it was only for a couple of miles, then the construction was over and it went back to a four lane divided highway.
It got hotter and more humid as the day went on. We got into Rugby, which is the geographic center of North America. They have this big stone sign in town so we all stopped and had our pictures taken with it. Today we saw quite a few other cyclists who were all fully loaded for touring.
We met a guy who was riding from Seatle to Maine by himself. He stopped at our Sag stop and we gave him some water and snacks. We saw some others too, two couples who were traveling along the same route as us. I felt so pampered since we don't have to carry anything but water and snacks!
Tomorrow we have a longer day so we will be and out early. We are gong to start to stair step east and south now on our way to Fargo. We will hope for favorable winds!
Minot- rest day
Today was a rest day. It was time for laundry, bike cleaning, and a trip to the mall.
Here's the trip totals:
Milage total to date 1469.2
Elevation gain to date 51,415'
The other group came in today and we had a group dinner.
I hope they have a safe trip into Fargo.
Here's the trip totals:
Milage total to date 1469.2
Elevation gain to date 51,415'
The other group came in today and we had a group dinner.
I hope they have a safe trip into Fargo.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
New Town/ Stanley to Minot, ND
Miles 53.3
Ride time 2:34
Elevation gain 826'
This morning we were shuttled by the van out New Town to Stanley, back to Highway 2. We had to be shuttled out in two groups. We ended up leaving around 8:30 or so. We went back out 23 and CR 8 and all of us were really glad not to have to ride out on a bike. We had a semi in front of us and we could see how narrow it was when another one was coming in the other direction. I am glad we all made it in safe. I didn't notice all of the lavender flax fields yesterday. We were too focused on staying on the road and not getting hit. We got the bikes off the van and headed out on highway 2. We had a 20 mile an hour tailwind. It was amazing. We just flew. We had a nice shoulder and it was two lanes so everyone gave us a lot of room. It was effortless. This is the seventh consecutive day of riding. Over seven days we have ridden 457 miles. It is a first for me to ride that many days in a row. The legs have held out. Today we really had fun riding. We were pushed along by the wind. It was not that noticiable until we would stop and feel how strong long the wind was. We really enjoyed getting out of all of the oil country with all of the teucks. We noticed the countryside change to rolling hills, fields of purple flax and yellow mustard. It so beautiful.
In spite of leaving last we got into Minot and had our room immediately ready. We were able to get in, clean up and get something to eat. We are right next to a mall that has .... A Sheels! My personal favorite. We checked it out, but it is not as nice as the one in Fargo. Jennifer got some new brake pads. We are in the biggest town we have seen since leaving Anacortes many weeks ago.
I am ready for a rest day. Time to clean my bike. My poor bike has been through so much. What a wonderful machine. We have been through many miles together, some pretty tough ones like slogging through the mud getting to Glacier, some like today screaming along at a average of over 25 miles an hour.
Ride time 2:34
Elevation gain 826'
This morning we were shuttled by the van out New Town to Stanley, back to Highway 2. We had to be shuttled out in two groups. We ended up leaving around 8:30 or so. We went back out 23 and CR 8 and all of us were really glad not to have to ride out on a bike. We had a semi in front of us and we could see how narrow it was when another one was coming in the other direction. I am glad we all made it in safe. I didn't notice all of the lavender flax fields yesterday. We were too focused on staying on the road and not getting hit. We got the bikes off the van and headed out on highway 2. We had a 20 mile an hour tailwind. It was amazing. We just flew. We had a nice shoulder and it was two lanes so everyone gave us a lot of room. It was effortless. This is the seventh consecutive day of riding. Over seven days we have ridden 457 miles. It is a first for me to ride that many days in a row. The legs have held out. Today we really had fun riding. We were pushed along by the wind. It was not that noticiable until we would stop and feel how strong long the wind was. We really enjoyed getting out of all of the oil country with all of the teucks. We noticed the countryside change to rolling hills, fields of purple flax and yellow mustard. It so beautiful.
In spite of leaving last we got into Minot and had our room immediately ready. We were able to get in, clean up and get something to eat. We are right next to a mall that has .... A Sheels! My personal favorite. We checked it out, but it is not as nice as the one in Fargo. Jennifer got some new brake pads. We are in the biggest town we have seen since leaving Anacortes many weeks ago.
I am ready for a rest day. Time to clean my bike. My poor bike has been through so much. What a wonderful machine. We have been through many miles together, some pretty tough ones like slogging through the mud getting to Glacier, some like today screaming along at a average of over 25 miles an hour.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Williston to New Town, ND
Miles 75.4
Ride time 4:14
Elevation gain 2415'
We started early today. Our route had been changed because of the increased the truck traffic from all of the oil and gas activity. We rode out town and took this lovely scenic stretch onto CR 6. It was a a great stretch of road and very pretty. It took us by fields of mustard and flax. We went by Springbrook Dam, which was a nice little spot that had campsites, but was pretty empty. There was little traffic.
We then got back on Highway 2. It was OK as there was a good shoulder, plus it was 2 lanes in each direction. There was lots of trucks, but they all gave us a lot of room. We had an incredible tailwind. It blew us up the hills it was so strong! We saw a couple of cyclists going the other direction who were traveling fully loaded. They did not look as happy as we did as we sailed along.
Then we had to turn on CR 8. By now the wind was howling. But for us we now had a sidewind that was gusting probably between 25-30 mph. It was hard to keep the bike on the road. It wouldn't have been so bad if the road had a shoulder for us to ride on. The shoulder was about a foot wide with a sharp downhill drop AND a rumblestrip. So we had no shoulder. What we did have was a two lane road with an endless stream of semi trucks flying by at 70 mph in each direction. It was unbelievable. Some of them honked at us as they went by. One truck started honking his horn as he crossed over onto the other side of the road, heading right for us. The message was quite clear. I told Jennifer I was not going to ride this and she agreed. Amy wanted to keep going. So Jennifer and I found a side road and got off our bikes. I called Denise who was driving the van, but then Marti drove up in the sag. We put our bikes on the roof rack and got out of there.
The road, it seems has become a major truck road in the last year due to the oil. The sherriff, the van and the sag plucked everyone else who was on the road off. The sherriff said that this road is one of the most dangerous roads in the country and that they have had many accidents on it. It was nice to be off it.
Our hotel is also a casino. Pretty grim out here. The wind is howling and the place is full of workers. The plan for tomorrow is to shuttle us back to Stanley and Highway 2. From there it will be a straight shot into Minot. We have a rest day there. I am ready for one!
Ride time 4:14
Elevation gain 2415'
We started early today. Our route had been changed because of the increased the truck traffic from all of the oil and gas activity. We rode out town and took this lovely scenic stretch onto CR 6. It was a a great stretch of road and very pretty. It took us by fields of mustard and flax. We went by Springbrook Dam, which was a nice little spot that had campsites, but was pretty empty. There was little traffic.
We then got back on Highway 2. It was OK as there was a good shoulder, plus it was 2 lanes in each direction. There was lots of trucks, but they all gave us a lot of room. We had an incredible tailwind. It blew us up the hills it was so strong! We saw a couple of cyclists going the other direction who were traveling fully loaded. They did not look as happy as we did as we sailed along.
Then we had to turn on CR 8. By now the wind was howling. But for us we now had a sidewind that was gusting probably between 25-30 mph. It was hard to keep the bike on the road. It wouldn't have been so bad if the road had a shoulder for us to ride on. The shoulder was about a foot wide with a sharp downhill drop AND a rumblestrip. So we had no shoulder. What we did have was a two lane road with an endless stream of semi trucks flying by at 70 mph in each direction. It was unbelievable. Some of them honked at us as they went by. One truck started honking his horn as he crossed over onto the other side of the road, heading right for us. The message was quite clear. I told Jennifer I was not going to ride this and she agreed. Amy wanted to keep going. So Jennifer and I found a side road and got off our bikes. I called Denise who was driving the van, but then Marti drove up in the sag. We put our bikes on the roof rack and got out of there.
The road, it seems has become a major truck road in the last year due to the oil. The sherriff, the van and the sag plucked everyone else who was on the road off. The sherriff said that this road is one of the most dangerous roads in the country and that they have had many accidents on it. It was nice to be off it.
Our hotel is also a casino. Pretty grim out here. The wind is howling and the place is full of workers. The plan for tomorrow is to shuttle us back to Stanley and Highway 2. From there it will be a straight shot into Minot. We have a rest day there. I am ready for one!
Culbertson to Williston, ND
Miles 55.1
Ride time 3:37
Elevation gain 1364'
Today we crossed the border into North Dakota! We have traveled through Washington, Idaho, and Montana. The crossing into N. Dakota also put us into a new time zone. We are now in Central Standard Time so we lost an hour. Our last in Montana was quite dramatic. We had a thunderstorm move in in the evening. A few of us were sitting outside after dinner commenting on how the predicted thunderstorm was unlikely to to occur when big rain drops started falling on us. We quickly put away the chairs and hurried in. When I sat outside later to call Judy, a wonderful rainbow was all that was left of the quick downpour. Later that night, we had lightening and thunder and the rain just poured. By morning it was all blue skies. We had to ride throughnsome areas that they were repaving, but actually it was great since everyone had to slow down pay attention. We started seeing the oil wells and the "grass hoppers" that pump out the oil from the ground. Apparently, ND has vast oilfields. A new gold rush is going on here.
We got into Williston early. Our rooms were not ready so a few of us rode our bikes back into the downtown area for a look around. The downtown was a little tired, with many storefronts empty. We ended up eating a fast food place. We checked out the bike shop which was quite small. It was part of a auto parts and auto tire dealership. We checked out a couple of bookstores. One had a nice coffee shop in the back. The Amy and Linda wanted to head back to the motel, so Jennifer and I checked out the other bookstore and the bike path that ran along a waterway. It reminded a bit of the Iron Horse trail near home. We headed back to our hotel using side streets to avoid some of the traffic. Tomorrow we have a route change due to the increased truck traffic on our planned route. It increases our milage to about 105 for tomorrow. Should be interesting!
Ride time 3:37
Elevation gain 1364'
Today we crossed the border into North Dakota! We have traveled through Washington, Idaho, and Montana. The crossing into N. Dakota also put us into a new time zone. We are now in Central Standard Time so we lost an hour. Our last in Montana was quite dramatic. We had a thunderstorm move in in the evening. A few of us were sitting outside after dinner commenting on how the predicted thunderstorm was unlikely to to occur when big rain drops started falling on us. We quickly put away the chairs and hurried in. When I sat outside later to call Judy, a wonderful rainbow was all that was left of the quick downpour. Later that night, we had lightening and thunder and the rain just poured. By morning it was all blue skies. We had to ride throughnsome areas that they were repaving, but actually it was great since everyone had to slow down pay attention. We started seeing the oil wells and the "grass hoppers" that pump out the oil from the ground. Apparently, ND has vast oilfields. A new gold rush is going on here.
We got into Williston early. Our rooms were not ready so a few of us rode our bikes back into the downtown area for a look around. The downtown was a little tired, with many storefronts empty. We ended up eating a fast food place. We checked out the bike shop which was quite small. It was part of a auto parts and auto tire dealership. We checked out a couple of bookstores. One had a nice coffee shop in the back. The Amy and Linda wanted to head back to the motel, so Jennifer and I checked out the other bookstore and the bike path that ran along a waterway. It reminded a bit of the Iron Horse trail near home. We headed back to our hotel using side streets to avoid some of the traffic. Tomorrow we have a route change due to the increased truck traffic on our planned route. It increases our milage to about 105 for tomorrow. Should be interesting!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Wolf Point to Culbertson, MT
Miles 56.4
Ride time 3:57
Elevation gained 826'
Today we left Wolf Point later than usual as we had another shorter ride. We brought our rain gear just in case. We saw a few herds of horses, some with tiny little ones next to their mothers. The first part of the route was on Highway 2, which had quite a bit more traffic on it than usual. The shoulder was not that wide either. After 21 miles, we turned off the highway to Route 1, a very nice quite country road. It was very scenic with fields of alfalfa and what looked like sugar beets. The area we were in looked like a big water carved valley. The coolest thing we saw was this rock formation that was chocolate brown and beige in color. It almost looked like the HooDoos that are in the southwest. It was very smooth, like it had been shaped by water or perhaps by the wind. In the distance, we saw the Missouri River. We had a few patches of gravel in the road, but overall it was really a nice stretch with hardly any cars. At one point we even had a nice tailwind going.
Then we had to get back on Highway 2 for our final 6 miles into town. We were treated to some large rollers and a fairly stiff side- headwind. All I could think of was how much that wind felt like good old Dublin winds. My legs were a bit tired today and I was happy to get to the top of the last hill then coast on into town. Culberston is a nice little town and we were able to check into our rooms right away. Unlike our motel last night, this one has nice clean carpet, no water leaks from the ceiling or from the vent over the toilet. Also refreshing is intact windows that have no bullet holes in them. Thankfully, we did not have a layover day there!
Ride time 3:57
Elevation gained 826'
Today we left Wolf Point later than usual as we had another shorter ride. We brought our rain gear just in case. We saw a few herds of horses, some with tiny little ones next to their mothers. The first part of the route was on Highway 2, which had quite a bit more traffic on it than usual. The shoulder was not that wide either. After 21 miles, we turned off the highway to Route 1, a very nice quite country road. It was very scenic with fields of alfalfa and what looked like sugar beets. The area we were in looked like a big water carved valley. The coolest thing we saw was this rock formation that was chocolate brown and beige in color. It almost looked like the HooDoos that are in the southwest. It was very smooth, like it had been shaped by water or perhaps by the wind. In the distance, we saw the Missouri River. We had a few patches of gravel in the road, but overall it was really a nice stretch with hardly any cars. At one point we even had a nice tailwind going.
Then we had to get back on Highway 2 for our final 6 miles into town. We were treated to some large rollers and a fairly stiff side- headwind. All I could think of was how much that wind felt like good old Dublin winds. My legs were a bit tired today and I was happy to get to the top of the last hill then coast on into town. Culberston is a nice little town and we were able to check into our rooms right away. Unlike our motel last night, this one has nice clean carpet, no water leaks from the ceiling or from the vent over the toilet. Also refreshing is intact windows that have no bullet holes in them. Thankfully, we did not have a layover day there!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Glasgow to Wolf Point, MT.
Miles 54.8
Ride time 3:32
Elevation gain 784'
Miles to date 1219.8
Elevation gain to date 45,984'
We woke up this morning to rain. A storm had moved in the area and since we had a shorter ride today, we waited until about 10 am to leave. The hotel in Wolf Point was not going to let us check in any earlier than 3 anyway, so there was no point in hurrying to get there. We all had on our rain gear as we left town. At about mile 20, we turned off Highway 2 to a country road that was really quiet and very scenic. It was nice to be off the highway, even though traffic was pretty light. There is so much junk on the shoulder of the highway that many in our group are getting multiple flats.
The side road was nice and we only saw about 4 cars in the 30 miles that we were on it. We saw the WT van and trailer stop which was the signal that Patty would stop riding and Denise would get to ride. Quite a few bikes were onto of the van as a few decided that they did not want to ride. Behind the trailer, a man in a pickup had stopped and motioned me to come over. I went over find out what he wanted. He was an older gentleman who wanted to tell us that he had seen us on TV. He seemed very excited about seeing us. It was hard to understand him as he had no teeth, but he was very sweet in his enthusiasm. I think he may have mixed us up with the Tour De France, but nevertheless he was pretty darned pleased to have seen us. In fact he drove by us twice. The second time, Jennifer was our spokesperson. He was thrilled to tell her the same thing and then he finally drove off. We rode on and met up with a couple of dogs, none of which were too aggressive. One, in fact, ran along in the grass beside us for at least a mile. It was so Fu to watch him bound along. He finally tired out, but he was running about 16 miles and hour for quite a while!
We finally turned onto back onto the highway for the last 3 miles into town. Wolf Point is a small town that, like many towns we have seen, are almost closed down. Most of the downtown is empty. It was also Sunday, but the only food was hamburgers at the Catholic church, fast food at MacDonalds, or something from the grocery store. Amy, Jennifer and I opted for the grocery store. We bought some fruit and yogurt and went back to them hotel. The storm looks like it cleared out. We are hoping for good weather tomorrow!
Ride time 3:32
Elevation gain 784'
Miles to date 1219.8
Elevation gain to date 45,984'
We woke up this morning to rain. A storm had moved in the area and since we had a shorter ride today, we waited until about 10 am to leave. The hotel in Wolf Point was not going to let us check in any earlier than 3 anyway, so there was no point in hurrying to get there. We all had on our rain gear as we left town. At about mile 20, we turned off Highway 2 to a country road that was really quiet and very scenic. It was nice to be off the highway, even though traffic was pretty light. There is so much junk on the shoulder of the highway that many in our group are getting multiple flats.
The side road was nice and we only saw about 4 cars in the 30 miles that we were on it. We saw the WT van and trailer stop which was the signal that Patty would stop riding and Denise would get to ride. Quite a few bikes were onto of the van as a few decided that they did not want to ride. Behind the trailer, a man in a pickup had stopped and motioned me to come over. I went over find out what he wanted. He was an older gentleman who wanted to tell us that he had seen us on TV. He seemed very excited about seeing us. It was hard to understand him as he had no teeth, but he was very sweet in his enthusiasm. I think he may have mixed us up with the Tour De France, but nevertheless he was pretty darned pleased to have seen us. In fact he drove by us twice. The second time, Jennifer was our spokesperson. He was thrilled to tell her the same thing and then he finally drove off. We rode on and met up with a couple of dogs, none of which were too aggressive. One, in fact, ran along in the grass beside us for at least a mile. It was so Fu to watch him bound along. He finally tired out, but he was running about 16 miles and hour for quite a while!
We finally turned onto back onto the highway for the last 3 miles into town. Wolf Point is a small town that, like many towns we have seen, are almost closed down. Most of the downtown is empty. It was also Sunday, but the only food was hamburgers at the Catholic church, fast food at MacDonalds, or something from the grocery store. Amy, Jennifer and I opted for the grocery store. We bought some fruit and yogurt and went back to them hotel. The storm looks like it cleared out. We are hoping for good weather tomorrow!
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Malta to Glasgow, Mt.
Miles 70.6
Ride time 4:17
Elevation gain 1031'
Today we had a very nice ride through some very pretty country. I did not expect this area to be as diverse in terrain. We rode through areas that were vast fields of clover green wheat, then we would be out in areas that were swamp like with large wetland areas. Along the side of the road, wild alfalfa grew with purple flowers and deep green leaves. We saw vast fields were nothing was planted, yet it was covered with millions of yellow flowers. They looked like small sunflowers. In the distance, hills surrounded us to our right. The train tracks of the Hi Line now were on our right. We saw several long freight trains wind by.
The weather was on our side, temperature was nice, winds were low and we even had a tailwind. We had a few rollers to go up and down, but nothing too bad. Traffic was pretty light too. The only thing that is tricky at times is trying to stay in a good spot on the road away from the "rumble" strips. The shoulders were pretty good, but there is alot of junk on them, especially glass. It is a challenge at times to trying to find a smooth spot to ride on.
We are near the Fort Peck Dam. A wonder that was built in the '30's as part of FDR's work projects. It was a big boost to the area. The town we are in, Glasgow, was once thriving with over 12,000 people, most who were working on the dam project. Now the town has only about 3500. Still, this town is quite a bit bigger than the ones we have seen lately.
Tomorrow we will be staying in a very small town that is part of an Indian Reservation.
Ride time 4:17
Elevation gain 1031'
Today we had a very nice ride through some very pretty country. I did not expect this area to be as diverse in terrain. We rode through areas that were vast fields of clover green wheat, then we would be out in areas that were swamp like with large wetland areas. Along the side of the road, wild alfalfa grew with purple flowers and deep green leaves. We saw vast fields were nothing was planted, yet it was covered with millions of yellow flowers. They looked like small sunflowers. In the distance, hills surrounded us to our right. The train tracks of the Hi Line now were on our right. We saw several long freight trains wind by.
The weather was on our side, temperature was nice, winds were low and we even had a tailwind. We had a few rollers to go up and down, but nothing too bad. Traffic was pretty light too. The only thing that is tricky at times is trying to stay in a good spot on the road away from the "rumble" strips. The shoulders were pretty good, but there is alot of junk on them, especially glass. It is a challenge at times to trying to find a smooth spot to ride on.
We are near the Fort Peck Dam. A wonder that was built in the '30's as part of FDR's work projects. It was a big boost to the area. The town we are in, Glasgow, was once thriving with over 12,000 people, most who were working on the dam project. Now the town has only about 3500. Still, this town is quite a bit bigger than the ones we have seen lately.
Tomorrow we will be staying in a very small town that is part of an Indian Reservation.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Havre to Malta, MT
Miles 91.2
Ride time 5:38
Elevation gain 437'
Total miles to date 1094.6
Total elevation gain to date 43,169'
Today we we left Have-Ur early, but it was already quite warm. We headed our of town and continued along our now familiar Highway 2. We rode by the fields with few signs of any houses or people. The train tracks to our left were busy with long freight trains, carrying containers to the other side of the country. Apparently, most of the train traffic now on our tracks is not for goods bound for USA consumption, but rather to transport the goods that China is sending to the rest of the world. It is cheaper for them to use our rails than to ship it around the Horn. Hummm, is that right? Still, it was very cool to see the long trains snake by with so many cars of stuff.
We surprized a large deer by the side of the road, who then ran out and was almost hit by a big truck as he went around us. The deer escaped unharmed, but it was very close. We did see quite a bit of roadkill though. There was quite a few skunks, snakes and deer that were casualties of the highway. I saw a huge porcupine that was on the side of the road. I had no idea they were that big.
We were detoured off of Highway 2 onto a gravel country road at about mile 50. The van was set up there for a lunch stop as there are few services along this route. As we got off the bikes we were met with a cloud of gnats and Mosquitos. It was unbearable. I had put on sunscreen and the gnats would land and then get stuck on my skin from the sunscreen. I had little black dots all over my arms. Very quickly I ate. Then Jennifer and I took off. As long as we kept moving, they couldn't land. We had to keep our mouths closed though as we were pelted with the bugs as we rode along. We got back on the highway it was a bit better, but as soon as we would stop, they would swarm.
We slammed a real Coke at mile 75 from the Sag and then tried to power on in to the town of Malta.
We rode into town, found the hotel, and we were able to get into our room right away. Air conditioning never felt so good! After a quick shower and small bite from our bag of snacks, we went to the nearby grocery store to buy......Bug Spray! We now have a big can and a small one to take on the bike. Tomorrow, we will fight back against the bug cloud with proper chemical warfare!
Ride time 5:38
Elevation gain 437'
Total miles to date 1094.6
Total elevation gain to date 43,169'
Today we we left Have-Ur early, but it was already quite warm. We headed our of town and continued along our now familiar Highway 2. We rode by the fields with few signs of any houses or people. The train tracks to our left were busy with long freight trains, carrying containers to the other side of the country. Apparently, most of the train traffic now on our tracks is not for goods bound for USA consumption, but rather to transport the goods that China is sending to the rest of the world. It is cheaper for them to use our rails than to ship it around the Horn. Hummm, is that right? Still, it was very cool to see the long trains snake by with so many cars of stuff.
We surprized a large deer by the side of the road, who then ran out and was almost hit by a big truck as he went around us. The deer escaped unharmed, but it was very close. We did see quite a bit of roadkill though. There was quite a few skunks, snakes and deer that were casualties of the highway. I saw a huge porcupine that was on the side of the road. I had no idea they were that big.
We were detoured off of Highway 2 onto a gravel country road at about mile 50. The van was set up there for a lunch stop as there are few services along this route. As we got off the bikes we were met with a cloud of gnats and Mosquitos. It was unbearable. I had put on sunscreen and the gnats would land and then get stuck on my skin from the sunscreen. I had little black dots all over my arms. Very quickly I ate. Then Jennifer and I took off. As long as we kept moving, they couldn't land. We had to keep our mouths closed though as we were pelted with the bugs as we rode along. We got back on the highway it was a bit better, but as soon as we would stop, they would swarm.
We slammed a real Coke at mile 75 from the Sag and then tried to power on in to the town of Malta.
We rode into town, found the hotel, and we were able to get into our room right away. Air conditioning never felt so good! After a quick shower and small bite from our bag of snacks, we went to the nearby grocery store to buy......Bug Spray! We now have a big can and a small one to take on the bike. Tomorrow, we will fight back against the bug cloud with proper chemical warfare!
Havre, MT rest day
Today it was really nice to sleep in. We walked across the street and had a decent breakfast. The hotel had a breakfast, but I walked in and decided it was too grim..I would rather pay!
I did a deep clean on the bike again. Hopefully our rainy days are behind us now. My poor bike has really been through quite a bit on this trip. There are a few more dings in the paint, but we earned every one of them. She is shined up and ready to go now.
Jennifer and I took the free hotel shuttle to Walmart. I wanted a couple of cheap tops since everything is so big on me. I found a couple of things, nothing too fancy, but at least they fit. We completed the shopping tour with a swing through K Mart. It was getting hot so we called for the shuttle back to the hotel. I was glad we didn't have to walk back-it was a rest day after all!
The second group on our tour came in this afternoon. We pretty much took over a big area of the parking lot. It was nice to see the other group and meet some of them.
A few of us took the shuttle to a steakhouse on the other side of town for dinner. We had a fun time and a nice dinner. We then headed back to pack up for the next day. We have a big day tomorrow...92 miles. We start a 7 day stretch of riding before our next rest day. It is supposed to be warm tomorrow.
So I must correct my previous post as far as how to pronounce Havre. The correct pronunciation is "Have urr". Boy, that was a challenge for me! By the time I got it down, it's time to go!
I did a deep clean on the bike again. Hopefully our rainy days are behind us now. My poor bike has really been through quite a bit on this trip. There are a few more dings in the paint, but we earned every one of them. She is shined up and ready to go now.
Jennifer and I took the free hotel shuttle to Walmart. I wanted a couple of cheap tops since everything is so big on me. I found a couple of things, nothing too fancy, but at least they fit. We completed the shopping tour with a swing through K Mart. It was getting hot so we called for the shuttle back to the hotel. I was glad we didn't have to walk back-it was a rest day after all!
The second group on our tour came in this afternoon. We pretty much took over a big area of the parking lot. It was nice to see the other group and meet some of them.
A few of us took the shuttle to a steakhouse on the other side of town for dinner. We had a fun time and a nice dinner. We then headed back to pack up for the next day. We have a big day tomorrow...92 miles. We start a 7 day stretch of riding before our next rest day. It is supposed to be warm tomorrow.
So I must correct my previous post as far as how to pronounce Havre. The correct pronunciation is "Have urr". Boy, that was a challenge for me! By the time I got it down, it's time to go!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Chester to Havre, MT
Miles 59.4
Ride time 3:20
Elevation gain 911'
Today we woke up to glorious blue skies, no wind and warm sun. It was so nice! I got to put on sunscreen for a change!
We headed put of Chester along Highway 2. Many in our group have been getting quite a few flats from all of the glass that is along the shoulder. We had a nice ride out along the wheat fields and the grain silos. We saw antelope today standing off in the distance. The ride today took us through a few small towns like Joplin, Inverness, Rudyard and Hingham before rolling into the larger town of Havre. Jennifer has been trying for the last couple of days to teach me to say it right. Havre is pronouced "Have-Ray". I seem to have a brain block on that one. We have a rest day here. I am ready to sleep in and have an easy day. Of course, I need to clean my bike, which got filthy in the last rain and I hope to catch up on a nap and maybe a little reading. Our next segment of riding will be the
Iongest yet-7 consecutive days without a rest day. Our first day out of here will be a 92 miler. So I will use tomorrow as a true rest day. We are now smack in the middle of Montana!
Ride time 3:20
Elevation gain 911'
Today we woke up to glorious blue skies, no wind and warm sun. It was so nice! I got to put on sunscreen for a change!
We headed put of Chester along Highway 2. Many in our group have been getting quite a few flats from all of the glass that is along the shoulder. We had a nice ride out along the wheat fields and the grain silos. We saw antelope today standing off in the distance. The ride today took us through a few small towns like Joplin, Inverness, Rudyard and Hingham before rolling into the larger town of Havre. Jennifer has been trying for the last couple of days to teach me to say it right. Havre is pronouced "Have-Ray". I seem to have a brain block on that one. We have a rest day here. I am ready to sleep in and have an easy day. Of course, I need to clean my bike, which got filthy in the last rain and I hope to catch up on a nap and maybe a little reading. Our next segment of riding will be the
Iongest yet-7 consecutive days without a rest day. Our first day out of here will be a 92 miler. So I will use tomorrow as a true rest day. We are now smack in the middle of Montana!
Cutbank to Chester, MT
Miles 66.5
Ride time 4:06
Elevation gain 810'
Today we left Cut Bank loaded with our rain gear in case we would get caught out on the road. The skies looked like it could change any minute, which it did. We did get caught and quickly pulled off to put on our raingear. Natually, by the tome we got everything on, the rain had stopped! We kept it on to keep ourselves dry from all of the spray off the pavement and passing vehicles.
Today was a pretty flat ride. We had a nice tailwind at first, but as the day went on we had more of a crosswind. We are traveling along highway 2. Highway 2 runs right next to what is known as the Hi-Line rail line. It runs all along the northern route across the USA. We watched long winding trains go by us, spending the horn. The trains seem to go on for miles.
We got into the town of Chester by early midday. It was nice to get in and have some time to look around. After cleaning up, a few of us set of in the search for something to eat. Seems to be the major spruce of entertainment we all want after getting off the bike. We walked over to the small main street area and found a little Cafe called Spuds. We had some lunch then went to check out the other sights. The town has a museum. The museum was in an old church, one of the first that was built in Chester. Back then, the church served all religions, but now they have separate ones. Inside the museum was quite a collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and items that dated back to the early days of the town. We learned that Chester had just celebrated it's centennial. We had just missed the festivities. The young man who guided us was very pleasant. His grandmother had helped put the collection together. He showed us a room that was set up as a reenactment of a early one room classroom. It was complete with desks, books, child manikens sitting attentively and a manikens teacher standing at the head of the class. Quite impressive. The only thing that was a bit strange was the mankien heads had the back half of thier heads missing. We had a wonderful BBQ behind the motel and Patty cooked up a great meal of steaks, chicken, fish and mashed potatoes. We also tried so Hutterite wine, courtesy of our motel hosts. It tasted like Apple fortified port..not bad if you sipped it.
Ride time 4:06
Elevation gain 810'
Today we left Cut Bank loaded with our rain gear in case we would get caught out on the road. The skies looked like it could change any minute, which it did. We did get caught and quickly pulled off to put on our raingear. Natually, by the tome we got everything on, the rain had stopped! We kept it on to keep ourselves dry from all of the spray off the pavement and passing vehicles.
Today was a pretty flat ride. We had a nice tailwind at first, but as the day went on we had more of a crosswind. We are traveling along highway 2. Highway 2 runs right next to what is known as the Hi-Line rail line. It runs all along the northern route across the USA. We watched long winding trains go by us, spending the horn. The trains seem to go on for miles.
We got into the town of Chester by early midday. It was nice to get in and have some time to look around. After cleaning up, a few of us set of in the search for something to eat. Seems to be the major spruce of entertainment we all want after getting off the bike. We walked over to the small main street area and found a little Cafe called Spuds. We had some lunch then went to check out the other sights. The town has a museum. The museum was in an old church, one of the first that was built in Chester. Back then, the church served all religions, but now they have separate ones. Inside the museum was quite a collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and items that dated back to the early days of the town. We learned that Chester had just celebrated it's centennial. We had just missed the festivities. The young man who guided us was very pleasant. His grandmother had helped put the collection together. He showed us a room that was set up as a reenactment of a early one room classroom. It was complete with desks, books, child manikens sitting attentively and a manikens teacher standing at the head of the class. Quite impressive. The only thing that was a bit strange was the mankien heads had the back half of thier heads missing. We had a wonderful BBQ behind the motel and Patty cooked up a great meal of steaks, chicken, fish and mashed potatoes. We also tried so Hutterite wine, courtesy of our motel hosts. It tasted like Apple fortified port..not bad if you sipped it.
Monday, July 5, 2010
St. Mary to Cut Bank, MT
Miles 63.9
Ride time 3:54
Elevation gain 2562'
We left St. Mary this morning under cloudy skies and wet roads, but no rain. We had an immediate 6 mile climb that was brutal to our not warmed up legs. As we climbed out, we had the views of the glacier valley to our right. It looked as though there had been a fairly recent fire through the area. The tall trees were still standing, but without any branches so they looked like matchsticks. All the other plant life was very healthy especially all of the wildflowers. One that I had not seen before until yesterday was all over the place. It is a tall plant with a large white flower on the top. It is called Bear Grass is a favorite of the bears to eat. From a distance it almost looks like a white rose. We did not see any bears this morning. We have not seen any bears, elk or any of the mountain goats that live in the area so far on this trip. What we did see was a small herd of wild horses, eating right near the side of the road. It was so cool. It was a herd of about 4 mares and a stallion. The stallion was a short distance away from the mares who were huddled close together. The stallion eyed us as we stopped to take their picture, but did not run away. What a treat!
We had series of downhills and a few shorter climbs then we dropped out into the plains. The mountains were now behind us. We have crossed over the Cascades and the Continental Divide on our bicycles! We are now over halfway to Fargo. It truly has been an amazing adventure so far.
We had a great tailwind that zipped us along with little effort at over 25 mph. All was going quite well until we were about 3 miles away town. The wind turned and blew sideways and it began to rain. The rain was pelting us so hard it stung my cheeks as it hit. We had one last hill to get into town. We powered up that and headed to the hotel as fast as we could to get out of the rain and wind.
Our rooms were ready so we were able to change into dry clothes. A bit of bike cleaning and laundry duties consumed the rest of the afternoon. Cut Bank has the privilege having a large fake penguin within sign that says that the town is the coldest place in the Nation!
Hopefully that won't be case as we ride out tomorrow morning!
Ride time 3:54
Elevation gain 2562'
We left St. Mary this morning under cloudy skies and wet roads, but no rain. We had an immediate 6 mile climb that was brutal to our not warmed up legs. As we climbed out, we had the views of the glacier valley to our right. It looked as though there had been a fairly recent fire through the area. The tall trees were still standing, but without any branches so they looked like matchsticks. All the other plant life was very healthy especially all of the wildflowers. One that I had not seen before until yesterday was all over the place. It is a tall plant with a large white flower on the top. It is called Bear Grass is a favorite of the bears to eat. From a distance it almost looks like a white rose. We did not see any bears this morning. We have not seen any bears, elk or any of the mountain goats that live in the area so far on this trip. What we did see was a small herd of wild horses, eating right near the side of the road. It was so cool. It was a herd of about 4 mares and a stallion. The stallion was a short distance away from the mares who were huddled close together. The stallion eyed us as we stopped to take their picture, but did not run away. What a treat!
We had series of downhills and a few shorter climbs then we dropped out into the plains. The mountains were now behind us. We have crossed over the Cascades and the Continental Divide on our bicycles! We are now over halfway to Fargo. It truly has been an amazing adventure so far.
We had a great tailwind that zipped us along with little effort at over 25 mph. All was going quite well until we were about 3 miles away town. The wind turned and blew sideways and it began to rain. The rain was pelting us so hard it stung my cheeks as it hit. We had one last hill to get into town. We powered up that and headed to the hotel as fast as we could to get out of the rain and wind.
Our rooms were ready so we were able to change into dry clothes. A bit of bike cleaning and laundry duties consumed the rest of the afternoon. Cut Bank has the privilege having a large fake penguin within sign that says that the town is the coldest place in the Nation!
Hopefully that won't be case as we ride out tomorrow morning!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Lake McDonald to St. Mary, MT
Miles 39.8
Ride time 3:45
Elevation gain 3985'
Miles to date 813.6
Total elevation gained 39,419'
Today we rode up Going to the Sun Road. It was overcast but not raining when we left. Jennifer, Amy and I joined Patty as the last ones to leave. Patty had to be the "sweep" to make sure all got to the top of Logan Pass by 11 am. The first part of the road was brand new surface and smooth to ride on. The raging McDonald Creek was to our left as we rode along. This was one of the most scenic roads I have ever been on. We climbed up after about mile 11 for another 10 miles, the grades were not bad, usually around 6%. it was not too cold either. There were waterfalls that looked like they went for hundreds of feet, sometimes they went right under the road and continued on down the mountainside. The views were stunning and in every direction another wonder met the eyes.
The road was built as part of a public works project in the 30's and the engineering is still impressive. They are having to repair some of the road and at about mile 18 parts were reduced to a single lane and sometimes it was gravel. It was not that bad and the traffic was still OK. As we got within 2 miles of the top of Logan Pass, clouds enveloped us and it felt like we riding in a cloud. It started to get colder. Thankfully, a tailwind pushed us up to the top. We posed briefly for a picture by the sign at Logan Pass, elevation 6644'. We were also now crossing the Contential Devide. It was really fun to be at the top, except it was absolutely freezing and the wind was fierce.
Through the kindness of our "personal Sag", Megan, we had a stash of extra clothes for the ride down the other side into St. Mary. I had on almost everything I owned as far as warm clothing, including all of my rain gear to help with the wind.
People were still going skiing up there so I knew that it wasn't just my imagination. We headed down under pretty windy conditions. The views were spectacular and even though the road was rough in spots, it was still a thrill to go all the way down like that for miles. It got warmer as we descended. We had a tailwind and it was so quiet. All I could hear was the sound of my tires on the road, no wind noise.
St Mary's Lake, being glacier fed, was a palette of blues and greens, with the incredible backdrop of the mountains behind it.
We rolled into St Mary and tried to get our hotel room, but they were strict about a 4 pm check in. We locked up the bikes and headed off to a pie place that was recommended to us. We finally got into our rooms and this place is very nice. This is the same place that Judy and I stayed in whe. We did the Glacier trip in 2003. It is right next to a river and has a view of the mountains from the balcony.
We are losing one of our group, Kathryn, who must leave tomorrow as she had planned. We will all miss her as she is a delightful person and fun to be around. We will miss you Kathryn!
Ride time 3:45
Elevation gain 3985'
Miles to date 813.6
Total elevation gained 39,419'
Today we rode up Going to the Sun Road. It was overcast but not raining when we left. Jennifer, Amy and I joined Patty as the last ones to leave. Patty had to be the "sweep" to make sure all got to the top of Logan Pass by 11 am. The first part of the road was brand new surface and smooth to ride on. The raging McDonald Creek was to our left as we rode along. This was one of the most scenic roads I have ever been on. We climbed up after about mile 11 for another 10 miles, the grades were not bad, usually around 6%. it was not too cold either. There were waterfalls that looked like they went for hundreds of feet, sometimes they went right under the road and continued on down the mountainside. The views were stunning and in every direction another wonder met the eyes.
The road was built as part of a public works project in the 30's and the engineering is still impressive. They are having to repair some of the road and at about mile 18 parts were reduced to a single lane and sometimes it was gravel. It was not that bad and the traffic was still OK. As we got within 2 miles of the top of Logan Pass, clouds enveloped us and it felt like we riding in a cloud. It started to get colder. Thankfully, a tailwind pushed us up to the top. We posed briefly for a picture by the sign at Logan Pass, elevation 6644'. We were also now crossing the Contential Devide. It was really fun to be at the top, except it was absolutely freezing and the wind was fierce.
Through the kindness of our "personal Sag", Megan, we had a stash of extra clothes for the ride down the other side into St. Mary. I had on almost everything I owned as far as warm clothing, including all of my rain gear to help with the wind.
People were still going skiing up there so I knew that it wasn't just my imagination. We headed down under pretty windy conditions. The views were spectacular and even though the road was rough in spots, it was still a thrill to go all the way down like that for miles. It got warmer as we descended. We had a tailwind and it was so quiet. All I could hear was the sound of my tires on the road, no wind noise.
St Mary's Lake, being glacier fed, was a palette of blues and greens, with the incredible backdrop of the mountains behind it.
We rolled into St Mary and tried to get our hotel room, but they were strict about a 4 pm check in. We locked up the bikes and headed off to a pie place that was recommended to us. We finally got into our rooms and this place is very nice. This is the same place that Judy and I stayed in whe. We did the Glacier trip in 2003. It is right next to a river and has a view of the mountains from the balcony.
We are losing one of our group, Kathryn, who must leave tomorrow as she had planned. We will all miss her as she is a delightful person and fun to be around. We will miss you Kathryn!
Lake McDonald-rest day
I slept in some today. Jennifer and I have an upstairs corner room with a tiny view of Lake McDonald. It is a nice big room, except no coffee pot! in desperation, I made press coffee with the hottest tap water that was available. A few in our group planned excursions, but all I wanted was to clean my bike and have some time to take it easy. We walked down to the lodge and had some breakfast. Then I came back and started taking all the extra stuff off my bike so I could start cleaning it. It is amazing how light my bike is when all the extra stuff is off of it. It took quite a while it get her back in shape, but finally she was clean, with clean chain and a new wax job.
Jennifer and I took the shuttle to Apgar Village, about a 15 minute bus ride away. We looked around in the gift shops and took some pictures, then headed back. We heard from those who had been on the red car excursions that it was freezing...glad we missed that!
I had bought a book at the gift store so I read and lazed- just like a rest day should be. Tomorrow we ge to go to the top of Logan Pass!
Jennifer and I took the shuttle to Apgar Village, about a 15 minute bus ride away. We looked around in the gift shops and took some pictures, then headed back. We heard from those who had been on the red car excursions that it was freezing...glad we missed that!
I had bought a book at the gift store so I read and lazed- just like a rest day should be. Tomorrow we ge to go to the top of Logan Pass!
Whitefish to Lake McDonald, MT
Miles 41.2
Ride time 3:05
Elevation gain 1255'
Today we left Whitfish in the pouring rain wearing full rain gear. We rode through town, then out on a country road. At about 6 miles we turned onto SR 40, which was much busier, but had a fairly decent shoulder to ride on. We got to the town of Columbia Falls and by now it was really coming down. The side of the road was full of water rushing down, so we rode on the sidewalk-at least we were away from the cars. We turned up CR 486N and had a nice road with little traffic. It was still raining and I was really hoping I wouldn't have a flat. It was impossible to see where any glass or other junk on the road.
Today I rode with Amy and Denise. We stopped to help Sherry with a flat, then headed on. Then we had to go on a road that was unpaved for almost 3 miles. The cue sheet indicated it was a gravel road, but by now it was a mud road. I am glad I mountain bike as this was a slippery road with hills and not a lot of great choices for good riding surfaces. Needless to say, with skinny tires, no fenders and the muddy road, my bike was solid brown with mud. I looked about the same, with mud all over. We finally made it off that road and on to some pavement. By this time I could barely shift to my big chain ring, it had so much muck in it.
We made our way onward and then finally turned left into Glacier Park. A very welcome sight. Even better was a gas station with a hose. We rinsed off our bikes and ourselves as best as we could and rode on into Lake McDonald. We had to get into the park before 11 am, which we did in plenty of time. We got out our bag of dry clothes and changed out of all of the wet stuff. We were able to hang out in the lodge by a giant fire that was burning in this giant stone fireplace. I am looking forward to sleeping in and having a day off tomorrow-major bike cleaning is the first priority!
Ride time 3:05
Elevation gain 1255'
Today we left Whitfish in the pouring rain wearing full rain gear. We rode through town, then out on a country road. At about 6 miles we turned onto SR 40, which was much busier, but had a fairly decent shoulder to ride on. We got to the town of Columbia Falls and by now it was really coming down. The side of the road was full of water rushing down, so we rode on the sidewalk-at least we were away from the cars. We turned up CR 486N and had a nice road with little traffic. It was still raining and I was really hoping I wouldn't have a flat. It was impossible to see where any glass or other junk on the road.
Today I rode with Amy and Denise. We stopped to help Sherry with a flat, then headed on. Then we had to go on a road that was unpaved for almost 3 miles. The cue sheet indicated it was a gravel road, but by now it was a mud road. I am glad I mountain bike as this was a slippery road with hills and not a lot of great choices for good riding surfaces. Needless to say, with skinny tires, no fenders and the muddy road, my bike was solid brown with mud. I looked about the same, with mud all over. We finally made it off that road and on to some pavement. By this time I could barely shift to my big chain ring, it had so much muck in it.
We made our way onward and then finally turned left into Glacier Park. A very welcome sight. Even better was a gas station with a hose. We rinsed off our bikes and ourselves as best as we could and rode on into Lake McDonald. We had to get into the park before 11 am, which we did in plenty of time. We got out our bag of dry clothes and changed out of all of the wet stuff. We were able to hang out in the lodge by a giant fire that was burning in this giant stone fireplace. I am looking forward to sleeping in and having a day off tomorrow-major bike cleaning is the first priority!
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Eureka to Whitefish, MT
Miles 59.4
Ride time 4:18'
Elevation gain 2437'
We left Eureka this morning early and it was quite chilly as we started out. The sign said it was 39 degrees. We headed out through the town of Eureka, which looked interesting with a nice historic area. We then turned up a country road that was quite hilly and brutal on our not warmed up legs. We did a bit of climbing, then it leveled out a bit. It was a fairly quiet road with very little car traffic. We passed an elk farm, but the elk were too far away for a good picture. It was still overcast and cool so we did not take off any layers at our first Sag stop. We were then on State highway 93, the only road for all going to Whitefish.
This stretch of road was very bad. We lost any type of shoulder and the road was quite rough in spots. It is basically a 2 lane highway with RV's, logging trucks, big semi trucks and lots of other traffic screaming by at 75 miles and hour. Needless to say, it was not fun riding. I just wanted to get off that road as quickly as possible. Jennifer and Amy were of the same mindset so we just rode as fast as we could for about 18 miles. Then highway is hilly so we had hills to climb while trying not to get hit or blown off the road. I couldn't even really use my mirror that I have to watch the traffic behind me. It took total concentration to just pound out the miles and get the heck off of that road.
Finally, we turned off on a road called Farm to Market. It was a relief to be on a quiet stretch of beautiful country road. There were many large fancy ranches and some very pretty country homes. Unfortunately, this was only a short diversion, as soon we had to make a right and get back on 93 for the last 5 miles into Whitefish. It was another stressful stretch, but at least the last couple of miles the speed limit dropped down until it was 35.
Glacier Cyclery was on the way to the hotel so we stopped in to,check it out. It is a very nice shop and I ended up buying a new jersey that I will wear when we ride Going to the Sun Road. It started to rain as we left the shop, but our hotel was only a mile away. I was really glad to get in and even happier to find out that everyone else made it in safe as well.
This area is so pretty, maybe some day they will improve the roads to make it safer for cyclists. Tomorrow we ride into Glacier Park.
I wish Judy was here to ride in with me!
Ride time 4:18'
Elevation gain 2437'
We left Eureka this morning early and it was quite chilly as we started out. The sign said it was 39 degrees. We headed out through the town of Eureka, which looked interesting with a nice historic area. We then turned up a country road that was quite hilly and brutal on our not warmed up legs. We did a bit of climbing, then it leveled out a bit. It was a fairly quiet road with very little car traffic. We passed an elk farm, but the elk were too far away for a good picture. It was still overcast and cool so we did not take off any layers at our first Sag stop. We were then on State highway 93, the only road for all going to Whitefish.
This stretch of road was very bad. We lost any type of shoulder and the road was quite rough in spots. It is basically a 2 lane highway with RV's, logging trucks, big semi trucks and lots of other traffic screaming by at 75 miles and hour. Needless to say, it was not fun riding. I just wanted to get off that road as quickly as possible. Jennifer and Amy were of the same mindset so we just rode as fast as we could for about 18 miles. Then highway is hilly so we had hills to climb while trying not to get hit or blown off the road. I couldn't even really use my mirror that I have to watch the traffic behind me. It took total concentration to just pound out the miles and get the heck off of that road.
Finally, we turned off on a road called Farm to Market. It was a relief to be on a quiet stretch of beautiful country road. There were many large fancy ranches and some very pretty country homes. Unfortunately, this was only a short diversion, as soon we had to make a right and get back on 93 for the last 5 miles into Whitefish. It was another stressful stretch, but at least the last couple of miles the speed limit dropped down until it was 35.
Glacier Cyclery was on the way to the hotel so we stopped in to,check it out. It is a very nice shop and I ended up buying a new jersey that I will wear when we ride Going to the Sun Road. It started to rain as we left the shop, but our hotel was only a mile away. I was really glad to get in and even happier to find out that everyone else made it in safe as well.
This area is so pretty, maybe some day they will improve the roads to make it safer for cyclists. Tomorrow we ride into Glacier Park.
I wish Judy was here to ride in with me!
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