We saw our first bear today! As we were pedaling down the highway, a small Black Bear crossed the road in front of us just as naturally as if he were a Deer! It happened so fast that we almost missed it. I thought he may have have been a cub, so you better believe that I was ringing the heck out of my bear bell just in case his momma was was close by.
We changed plans a little today. We had originally planned on taking the alternate route that goes under Glacier rather than through it (it's shorter and the mountain pass isn't as big) but one of our newly found cycling friends told us of another option. Glacier National Park offers free shuttle rides up and down the mountain and they even have bike racks on the front for people like us! We were thrilled to find this out, as it really did kill us to know we were that close to Glacier without going in. Then, we met two people at our camp this morning that had a valid park pass for two that they weren't going to use again, so we were already paid for.
We took the shuttle all along the Going-to-the-sun Road and walked around at the top of Logan's Pass and the continental divide. We're definitely coming back one day to explore some of the cool hiking trails and enjoy all of the touristy things that we just didn't have time for today.
We finally met two more tourers that are doing the exact same "Northern Tier" route that we're doing. It's a good thing
we met them because they warned us about a town that we were planning on camping in, called Browning. It's only 1,000 people, but it's located on the Blackfoot Indian reservation and apparently it's somewhat poverty-stricken and has been notoriously dangerous for bike tourers. So, we've decided to camp here in the town of St. Mary tonight instead. We'll still ride through, but it's only for two miles and we'll be sure and move quickly, be smart and it'll be in the light of day.
We have a pretty heavy day of riding tomorrow, so gotta get some rest. Night!
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I'm glad you have a bear bell. I bet the cub was cute, but knowing that big Momma Bear was probably nearby probably made your adrenaline pump faster than ever. I know you've enjoyed the majestic mountains and will miss them, but the flat ground will allow you to make some good progress. It still amazes me how far you've traveled over all of the mountains in such a short time. I pray that you will still witness God's majesty in His creation as you travel. Perhaps this part of the ride will be a good time to pray for the kids in Kenya who are eating good meals, getting an education, and hearing about the love of Jesus.
ReplyDeleteI'm so thankful for all of the provisions along your way from your Heavenly Father and many blessings as well. "And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Philippians 4:19-20) Love ya bunches, Mom