Final ride day

55 miles back to Missoula. Yesterday was 99 degrees, in the shade!

Full disclosure

We don't always rough it every day of the ride. Our layover day in Philipsburg allowed us to rent a house with beds and sheets and a toilet that flushes! We had a fantastic pasta dinner and dessert and spent Thursday wandering the small town and checking out the cute shops. Anything but sitting on a bike seat. Back at it on Friday for two more days back to Missoula.

Brrrrrrr

Home away from home for the week. Last night's sleeping attire consisted of shorts, sweatpants, socks (wishing I had brought smart wool), and three shirts. Today w're heading to Wise River. Should be more downhill than uphill. Pretty remote without cell service.

Day 2 and a new tire

74 miles over Chief Joseph pass. I guess it was too much for my tire. Thanks to the mechanics I'll be good to go again in the morning.

Ride day 1

Missoula to Darby. Another small town. 73 miles through the bitterroot valley. We stopped at every sprinkler we saw. I know I'll sleep well tonight!

Pre ride

Slumming in the Sentinal high school parking lot prior to the ride.

Mule mania

Small towns are fun. Last night we stayed at a state park in Dayton Washington, population about 2500. We woke up to discover that it was alumni weekend and Mule mania weekend complete with parade. The alums walk at the head of the parade followed by the mules we were told by one local. We didn't get to watch the parade because we still have about six more hours of driving and more small towns ahead of us.

Celebrate vacation

A little luxury before we start roughing it. Walls Walla sweet onion rings.

Games you play while driving

Travel prizes for seeing these in remote eastern Oregon:
Gas station with a dinosaur
A cat - live
Exposed belly on a motorcycle rider
Skinny-legged kid with cowboy boots
Cowgirl on a horse
Pair of long-distant cyclers
Exotic farm animals - no llamas
Rabbit - live
Motorhome with state map on the side
Vehicle with 3 or more sport activities strapped to the top
Pickup truck with three dogs in the back
Rock shop

Montana bound!

Heading out for our two-week vacation to cycle 477 miles through Montana.