Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Missoula, Montana

HP got to Great Falls on June 10th after cycling 39 miles from Fort Benton. He experienced nice weather--cool but sunny—and enjoyed the city. However, the next night in Augusta was much more exciting. After a long cycling day HP just wanted to get to sleep early. In the middle of the night he was awakened by someone trying to get into his hotel room. While this gave him some wonderful fantasies it also produced some fears. Could it be a serial killer or burglar? With raised bike pump, HP flung opened the door only to see a late night partier who got the wrong room. The next morning HP saw this man at breakfast with his companions and said “Ah, burglars are not just working during the night; you have a day job too?" His companions must have heard the story because they laughed themselves silly.

On June 12 HP reached Lincoln after cycling 57 miles. It was tough riding over Rodgers Pass but the weather was cool. However, the only place to stop was a closed saloon. Not only was a cool drink denied HP, a nasty dog kept him from resting in the saloon’s shade. The local sheriff saw HP’s dilemma and offered him a ride to the local jail. While HP declined the ride he did accept some bottled water and friendly conversation.

By June 13 HP reached Ovando, Montana and stayed at Nord Johnson’s B&B. While running a B&B with his new family, Nord also leads outdoor activities including mountain climbing, river rafting, and fishing. In case you think that the world has gotten too large and impersonal, Nord asked HP to stop in Geneva, Switzerland on his way home to meet and greet his very good friend Yves Menoud.

Despite all the great cafes’ enjoyed along the way, HP tells us that Ovando has one of the nicest.

Finally, HP arrived in Missoula on June 14th after 52 miles of cycling. It was nice weather, but a little warmer than on previous days in the mountains. However, the best part of the day was the downhill ride with good shoulders, wonderful forests, and scenic mountain views.

In Missoula, HP received great news. Carl, who cycled with us in Missouri, decided to rejoin HP for the rest of the journey. They are spending a few days there while they await the arrival of Carl’s bike and gear. In addition, HP’s friend Leo, from Chicago, was also in Missoula at the same time and bought him lunch. Leo was heading to Seattle where he would meet his wife Sue for the start of their bicycle trip along the Columbia River.

Click to view recent Photos
Click to view overview map of the trip

2 comments:

  1. Carl comes to the rescue! Fantastic that has rejoined the old mens ride. Best wishes to both of you.

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  2. After meeting you "old guys" north of Pierre, SD I was hoping to catch up with you in Montana. I was in Augusta, MT a day after you were. I was on the lookout for you, but unfortunately our paths did not cross again. HP - my thoughts are with you.
    Joe & Jeff - it was a pleasure meeting you.

    Craig McIntyre
    SD Bicycle Coordinator

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