Two Long Days

I'm posting this missive from the Dillion, Montana public library.

Wednesday

Rode 71 miles with a seat time of 539.

I rode from Missoula to Darby in beautiful weather. The ride was somewhat pedestrian, although part of the route took me through an area devastated by a 350,000 acre forest fire a few years back: nothing but blackened sticks. Riding south in the Bitteroot Valley reminded me of Shenandoah Valley albeit on a bigger scale. During the entire trip I had mountain ranges to both the East and West of me. I lunched in Hamilton, a nice town nestled against the Bitteroot Range. By in large WalMart has not seen fit to locate in Montana and the town centers remain vibrant.

Thursday

Rode 75 miles with traveling time of 7 - yes 7- hours.

The day began with a 3,300 foot climb out of the Bitteroot Valley and over Chief Joseph pass. Once over the pass I enjoyed a long downhill, following Trail Creek. The road follows the Nez Perce traditional route to the East, hence the name. It was a very nice ride for a portion than it was one long haul to Wisdom for lunch. I decided to go 18 miles further to Jackson, which offered a hot springs. I had the wind at my back and beautiful views of the Big Hole valley and mountain ranges to my West, but I was still challenged. It was a good day of riding to be sure.

The hot springs were great. The lodge had built a full size pool filled by continuously flowing waters from the spring: water was clear and the temperature was great! Just what the doctor ordered. I had a bath in the evening and in the morning. The temperatures really fall at this altitude (6,500 feet) and I dressed in socks and thermals around one in the morning. As a special treat I was able to watch the seventh game of the NBA championship on a large-screen TV.

Friday

A short day to Dillon: 48 miles with 4:00 moving time. The next stop was twenty-six miles away at Twin Bridges, but I was in no mood (nor shape) for a third 70-mile day. Unfortunately, Dillon is sponsoring a 157 bicycle circuit ride tomorrow and all the rooms were booked. I took a smoking room at a local hotel. Tomorrow its fifty-five miles to Virginia City.