Day 14 Portland to Portland - Bozeman to Columbus, MT


 

Our last full day in Montana.  Still lots to see and enjoy.  Lots of beauty and some wildlife as well.  I am not sure when it happened, but everyone was totally relieved to have and easy day today - 109 miles and 2700 ft of climbing.  Not too long ago, riding a century seemed like a big task.  After 3 centuries in a row, 109 and relatively flat was a nice change!





Once we got outside of Bozeman, most of the ride was spent on frontage roads and the interstate.  We started the day with a hearty breakfast at the Feed.  After navigating a road closure, we started climbing.  This was my kind of day.  95% of the elevation was tackled by mile 30.  Unfortunately, the day went on a bit longer than expected due to several flat tires and a brake issue within our riding group.  All of the highway riding makes you realize how dirty the sides of the roads are.

Here are a few pictures from the day.  I find it interesting that most of the pictures come in the first half of the day.  As the hours go on and the temperature goes up, no one feels like stopping for a picture.



This was the closest we have been to seeing a bear, so far.



Down we go!



At the top of this morning's climb.



The Yellowstone River



The land of Walt Longmire and the Absaroka Mountains



Ending the day with a plunge in the Yellowstone River and a cold Canyon Creek Cream Ale



All of the riders from yesterday's crash rode today, so no major damage done.


Tomorrow we cross over into Wyoming.  State number 5 for the trip.  Another easy day.  90 miles and 2600 ft of climbing!😅

Bighorn Pass, the Continental divide and the return of 90+ degree days are looming...

Comments

  1. AnonymousAugust 31, 2022 at 3:32 AM

    Fantastic pictures and what must have been a beautiful ride. Happy trails from Brenda and Joe!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Joyce MillerAugust 31, 2022 at 3:37 AM

    Catching up on your blog! Wonderful pictures! What a once in a lifetime experience!

    ReplyDelete
  3. MikeAugust 31, 2022 at 4:58 AM

    Hope that bib dries by the next ride! Great pics and narrative. Ride on!

    ReplyDelete
  4. KathleenAugust 31, 2022 at 5:30 AM

    Awesome weather, great riding, fantastic scenery & glad you only saw the Cow up close! 😎

    ReplyDelete

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