I’m so glad that yesterday I did an extra 15 miles out of town. During that run yesterday I had two unrestrained dogs with their owner try to come after me. I’m not sure why the owner did nothing. I was warned earlier in the day about wild dogs. I wasn’t exactly sure where those would be but looking back at yesterday and seeing all the small homes and ranches along the road leading out of town it was clear where the issues would be. I’m convinced yesterday there wasn’t as many dogs because the heat was so high. Had I tried to do that section early in the morning I’m sure it would have been doggy dangerous. Not knowing exactly what to expect for today beyond my starting point, I loaded my vest with rocks in both pockets. Yes I have bear spray but I was hoping not to use that on dogs. So getting started today I immediately encountered a mile climb with a four to five percent grade. Once getting to the top I realized there were not going to be anymore dog issues. The wide open expanse of nothing returned. So I dumped the rocks and pedaled on. The terrain was pretty boring for the first hour. What was unexpected traveling through the wide open expanse of an Indian reservation was the cell service. This gave me an opportunity to stream some music to help pass the miles.
The temperatures today were much cooler and that led to the later start. Eventually the flat terrain disappeared and beautiful rock formations and valleys appeared. I eventually came upon three eastbound riders named Greg, Allison, and Anton. They told me of the beautiful scenery in my future and I warned them of the dogs to come. They were all from the Bay Area and Greg had was planning to go the full distance while Allison and Anton were just doing a section with him. They asked if there were any other riders going their direction but I told them they were a couple of days ahead. The terrain and the formations continue to astound me with their variety and beauty. About halfway through a ride Lisa Marie and I came to a small town called Crowheart. It was a little gas station oasis in the basin. Here we rested and watched someone empty out the porta-john.
At different times you could see for miles as the road snaked between the canyons. The descents seemed to be numerous, but looking at the end of the day I climbed more than double. As I started down another descent today I saw another storm brewing with an occasional flash of lightning. As I continue on I felt that I was getting out in front of the storm and was not concerned. I eventually left the Indian Reservation and the cell service disappeared. Getting closer to the town the picture opportunities were enormous. The Wind River cutting through the canyon in the valley provided the water for the livestock and vegetation. About three miles out another storm started to catch me and the raindrops began to fall. I was able to outrun that for a little bit until I had to climb another large hill. The good news was I was almost into town and after every up there is a down. And I began racing to get to the finish line before I got drenched. Getting cleaned up after the ride and going to a local cafe lisa Marie and I had a fabulous meal. These small town cafes and diners have been great.
Insights from Lisa Marie
This morning was a little bit later start coming out of where we had stopped yesterday. The scenery is pretty much the same as going through the basin. Not a lot out here except the cattle again and some horses. From yesterday’s ponderings on the theory of the lone cow I have an update, if keeping up with my blog. Today as I’m sitting waiting at one of the spots for Norm to pass, I suddenly heard this very odd sound. It reminded me of a foghorn. It was a single bull. I verified that by the horns only so I think that is correct. I couldn’t get close enough to see his anatomy, but I’m pretty sure it was a bull. I got a picture of him as he walked by the car, letting me know that he was there and this was his territory. As I left 20 minutes later spot, on the other side of the road is another single bull. Was it the same one and he crossed? I don’t know but my theory now is that these are single bulls because of course they are boys which means they can’t be with the herd of cows(girls) because nothing would get done. When I mentioned this to Norm he said what do they have to do? They eat grass and drink water! I said if the bull is there the girls are having to deal with him! Yes, weird humor again for the early morning. Later on I saw the pass which Norm will have to climb tomorrow up to almost 10000 feet again. Took some scenery pics and more wildlife. Got a herd of pronghorn with the ram standing by. Also a group of horses who could care less about getting their picture taken but the donkey wanted to be upfront and center. Made it to Dubois, Wyoming for a fabulous late lunch at the Cowboy Cafe. Finally got my pie craving satisfied!
