RA15: Far Western Montana
It rained all night at Cabinet Gorge RV Park, which I sorta liked from a sleeping point of view. Fortunately it let up enough to allow us to pack up in the morning, albeit with wet gear stowed in the panniers.
In short order, Jesse caught up with us, again. He’d spent last night in Clark Fork since the forecast had called for rain yesterday afernoon and last night, which was mostly correct, then he’d risen early and pedalled the 16 miles to our camp. Independence reigns on this tour – for better and worse that philosophy is serving us.
SR56 took us north following the Bull River. There was plenty of climbing of smallish hills, but the total climbing for the day added up quickly to something over 2000 ft. Scenery was stunning, as usual. I am running out of words for it – stunning, magnificent, gorgeous, beautiful. But I keep taking pictures of snow-capped mountains, lush meadows and wetlands vibrant with new green growth, amazing cascades of water…
Jesse and I lagged well behind since he decided to index his derailleur just off the road. He reasoned, why should I wait until camp when I can just do it here in this outdoor splendor?
He and I then went to the Halfway House Bar for a lunch sandwich. The place was really great, with that perfect friendly-bar-type ambience. The proprietor was especially welcoming to us cyclists and she fixed us some excellent eats. We learned that she is a foodie and watches The Food Channel, and was excited that Linda and Janel had met Mr. Bourdain.
We hit SR2 and headed east, following the Kootenai River, and eventually reached the viewpoint for Kootenai Falls. It was a half mile hike back into the woods, but the falls, and the tremendous amount of water flowing over it were worth the trek. Have I mentioned that there are huge amnounts of water everywhere up here? This transplanted desert boy is amazed.
A few more miles and we reached Libby, MT and our camp at the Two Bit RV Park. The guys seem to prefer RV parks because they usually provide showers, but they’re also more expensive. Still, the fee is rarely above $25, split 5 to 7 ways.
Dinner, then a team meeting to discuss the next few days’ route and schedule. We are anticipating that the road through Glacier National Park will be closed when we get there, but Frank suggested that we consider taking a dedicated day to ride around the open portions of the park. Everyone liked this idea, so we will see how it plays out in the next few days.
51 miles and another absolutely wonderful day on the road. I know it is boring to talk about my poor knees, but they did not perform well today. It is a little frustrating to have lots of energy, plenty of muscle and conditioning, but still ride in pain due to “linkage” issues. The gang had a mini-conference on my behalf after dinner to brainstorm, do some measurements, and check some of my bike hardware out. I thoroughly appreciated their attention to it as I need to reach a remedy.
Yay! Montana. I actually found out from Pam this morning that you were in Montana. We were playing golf and I hadn’t read today’s entries, but she had.
Your campsite looks very relaxing.
Take care of your knees!!!
Looks like you and Jack are having the time of your lives…I am enjoying the blogs! Be safe.
Rich,
Man, I am sorry to read of your knee discomfort. Hope you find a remedy that takes the pressure off of the knee. For your consideration: I brought two pair of shoes that clip into my pedals, and one of the pairs caused some knee discomfort, but the other did not … I mailed the pain-causing shoes back to AZ and have not experienced any more discomfort. What I am suggesting is that it may be your shoe, not the bike fit.
Just exited the Redwood area of Northern Calif, and am in a hotel/dive in Ft. Bragg. Plan on stopping in San Francisco mid-week next week to see my son … looking forward to that.
As I say, hope you find a solution for the knee problem.
Randy
Thanks Katie! This tour is a blast, everything I thought it would be and more. If there was ever any doubt, we are now “up to our necks” in it. (grin)
Randy, I appreciate the pointer and will work it in as part of my solution finding. Indeed I am riding somewhat newer shoes, purchased for this tour. Last 2 days have been painful but slightly better, mostly because I am now traveling at 7-8ph and downshifting for any reason. It is an issue that must be solved. Haven’t read your blog for a while but will do that next (we’ve been in the sticks).