Dianna

Dianna

  • Joined: September 25, 2022
  • Articles: 129

July 10 – Deadwood to Hill City

Riding the trail presented some of its own unique challenges. On a bicycle, one needs to carefully pick a ‘line’-a course that is least likely to have debris and hazards. Avoiding deep ruts, crossing cattle guards and railroad tracks at 90 degree angles and watching for stickers that can puncture a tire is paramount. But this morning, there was a new hazard-multiple piles of cow pies! It was like an obstacle course! lol! Not before long, we came across a herd of cattle traveling along the trail. One cow-the matriarch-was traveling in the opposite direction bellowing at the others. A few responded with comments but for the most part, they and the babies continued forward.

July 9 – Custer to Deadwood

Leaving our little cabin nestled in the woods was bittersweet. The trees smelled so good and were teeming with birds. The campground had a few baby goats and a donkey for the kids to pet. The goats thought everyone was there to feed them. They were adorable.
Should we return to the Michelson Trail for our return or take the highway? The trail guarantees no grade greater than 4% but the road is a smoother surface with less rolling resistance. We chose the highway.
Oh my! Within 1 hour 11 minutes, we had traveled 6 miles and climbed 1,304 feet! Now that’s a way to start the day!!
It was fun to ride through the towns we saw yesterday from the trail.

July 8 – Edgemont to Custer

The trail had a fair number of people riding. Since it is a rail trail, the grade never exceeded 4%. Flowers were blooming on both side of the path and oftentimes, we found ourselves riding through the forest. We met a lovely couple-Scott and Kristen- who are riding the trail as well. They shared they were relatively new to cycling. How exciting to see someone discover the magic of the bike!

July 7 – Lusk to Edgemont South Dakota

Deep in the pedals, we continue on Hwy 85 turning on Hwy 18 not not before seeing the most amazing site ever!! So, we have begun a pattern of taking short breaks by turning into side streets and driveways since the roads we are traveling don't have stop signs or traffic lights. It gives us a chance to get out of the saddle and relax a minute. Off in the distance, we see a pull out but there's are vehicle there. Not terribly unusual but we are always watchful. As we get closer, the two people are waving. And I realize it's Mark and Roxanne from home!!My legs are no longer tired and we pull up to wonderful hugs! They have traveled out of their way just to see us and say hello.

July 6 – Douglas to Lusk Wyoming

The food was really good- burger and fries/ chicken salad. The next two hours were spent doing the usual-phone calls, charging items, setting things up for the morning and then the alerts started coming over the phone. It's 8:48 PM. TORNADO WARNING!!
What?!! This is really foreign to me! Within minutes, it starts to rain. The sky is filled with thunder and lightening. The lightening is so frequent- every 2-3 seconds, it reminds of a kid playing with a light switch. And the downpour and heavy wind followed by hail. I have never seen anything like this!! We watch and try to capture as much footage as possible. This lasts about an hour. Then is all stops, as fast as it started. Wow! Just wow! We turn in for the evening, grateful for a room over our heads and a dry place to sleep.

July 4 – Rest day in Casper Wyoming

Multitasking the day's events, we also included a walk to downtown. Being a holiday, almost everything was closed. We did get lunch and a cup of coffee. Once back, we indulged in an afternoon nap. Sometimes you don't realize how tired you are until you slow down. It was a little slice of heaven. Now late afternoon, we plan a low key evening, repacking the bikes and preparing for the morning. The weather is predicting headwinds tomorrow so it may be a tough day.

July 3rd – Alcova to Casper Wyoming

Today will be a light day so we can make lots of stops, photos and play more!
We get to the North Platt river bridge and Drew launches the drone. Within seconds, the swallows from the nearby overpass go crazy and storm the drone. The flight lasts 90 seconds, bringing it down before an incident occurs. We can't wait to share this with you on our YouTube channel.

July 2 Jeffrey city to Alcova

We travel along several historic sites: Split Rock, Muddy Gap, the intersection of the California Trail/Oregon Trail/Pony Express/Morman Pioneer. Martins Cove.
As we get closer to Alcova, we are riding along a huge ranch-Pathfinder Ranch. There are signs identifying the ranch about every mile. It went on forever.
And along the way, on both sides of the raid was a type of brush blooming with yellow flowers that smelled sweet, like honeysuckle. What a joy to have a sweet smell to enjoy!

June 30th – Dubois to Lander Wyoming

Set under the trees and near a river, the tent was a perfect serene setting for a peaceful night's sleep. The sun rose and birds sang. Time for the next day's adventure.
Breakfast at the Cowboy Cafe was even better with Dick and Nancy Riddle nearby. They are from the area and share many insights into its history and local activity.
We are still at 6,000 feet plus elevation. We roll out into a beautiful sunny day. About 10 miles out of town, the National Museum of Military Vehicles is to our left. We stop by and discover what an amazing collection it has. We are told it takes hours to see everything. It looked amazing.

June 29 – Hatchet to Dubois Wyoming

Up we go. In the first four miles and nearly one hour, we climbed nearly 1,000 feet. With the bikes loaded, we want to pace ourselves. Pushing harder serves to make us lightheaded. The last thing we need to do is pass out on the side of the road! More Beware of Bears signs. The camp host sent us off this morning with this advice: Just remember to go downhill. You might be able to outrun them that way. I keep surveying the terrain. Which way is downhill?
As vehicles pass us, we can hear the engines working hard...shifting down gear after gear.
I think about what I'm experiencing. I never would have imagined I would have the opportunity to ride my bike here...to see this beautiful country this way.

June 28 – Jackson Hole to Hachet Campground

We are nearing a month on the bike and could not be happier. The bikes have handled amazingly, we have been blessed with great weather with minimal rain and we feel great. Drew has dropped some weight adjusting his belt loops a number of times and my arm sleeves keep falling down. We expected this would happen so we're not concerned. Our legs/hips seem more muscular and we seem to be able to climb in bigger gears. So very grateful!
Last night, we went through all our 'stuff' and are mailing home things we no longer need like the Adventure Cycling Adventures maps, receipts and a bird's nest.
Thanks to all our friends who have shared their experiences on their TransAm rides. We have not found ourselves wishing we had something or carrying anything extra. Like Goldilocks " This bed's just perfect!"

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson, Wyoming—a picturesque mountain town that serves as the gateway to the stunning Grand Teton National Park. With its stunning backdrop of the Teton Range and charming, Western-style architecture, Jackson exudes a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. The town offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, from skiing and hiking to wildlife viewing and river rafting. Explore the vibrant town square, where you’ll find eclectic shops, renowned restaurants, and art galleries showcasing local talent. With its welcoming atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings, Jackson invites you to experience the heart of Wyoming's wild beauty and immerse yourself in the spirit of the American West.

June 26 – Grant Village to Colter Bay.

This morning, as we broke camp, a squirrel became quite curious about our activities. Trying to bring it closer, I tried mimicking his sounds and before I knew it, he was so close I thought he'd jump on me! What a fun way to start the day!
We learned the one minute-two minute rule today. While stopping for a quick break and get off the saddle, one minute is perfect. At two minutes, the legs have already gone cold and starting again is uncomfortable! The legs are stronger now. The body adapts to it's activities and we are now able to climb in bigger gears. It feels so good!

June 25 – West Yellowstone to Grant Village

We head to the entrance of West Yellowstone. It is such a beautiful park. We see bison in the distance and several fly fishermen. Old Faithful did not disappoint and we saw a bison cross the street in front of us 30 yards away. We crossed the
Continental divide twice and had so much fun with a raven who entertained us while we waited in a construction zone. He was the size of an eagle and showed no fear of us.

West Yellowstone Montana

Welcome to West Yellowstone, Montana—a charming gateway town that offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty. Situated just outside the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone is the perfect base for exploring one of America’s most iconic landscapes. With its rugged mountain backdrop and picturesque streets, this welcoming town provides easy access to the park’s geothermal wonders, wildlife, and scenic vistas. Beyond the park, visitors can enjoy local attractions such as the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, charming shops, and cozy dining spots.

June 23 – Day 21- Ennis to West Yellowstone

We are headed to Quake Lake that formed based on a 7.5 earthquake in 1959. I had never heard of it. 28 people died in the Night of Terror. The visitor center had wonderful information. They offered books about the area and events. My brain is so hungry to learn more but for now, I just want to capture enough so I can come back. A quick stop at the ladies room and an ant appeared, rather spent, on the leg of my bike shorts. Did you just drop from the ceiling or have you been a hitchhiker since the road relief stop outside of Cameron? Ant in my pants?? Ant or mosquito? I don't care! Just stop biting me!!

June 21st – Day 19 – Wisdom to Dillon (Bike Walk Camp)

We awakened to frost on the tent this morning. It was cold last night.
Lois Volkening stopped by to check on the campsite. She and her husband Larry run this camp and one in Dillon. It is an all volunteer non-profit. After chatting a few minutes, we make plans to met at a local coffee shop, the Hook and Horn. Lois is a fountain of information about the area and has agreed to allow us to video her. Once there, we enjoyed coffee and learned so much from her. We are SO fortunate.

June 20th – Day 18 – Darby to Wisdom

Rested and ready, today we summit two passes- Lost Trail Pass (elevation 7,014) and Chief Joseph Pass (elevation 7,241).
Setting out, the landscape is beautiful with meadows between mountains. We are beginning to see more wildlife, especially deer in pairs. Off to our right, we spotted what appeared to be two adult deer about 1/4 mile away. Drew made a clicking sound hoping to get their attention and boy did it!! They glanced towards us and took off in flight like Santa's reindeer! White tails on high alert and feet barely touching the ground. And they were gone.

June 19th – Missoula to Darby

It’s Monday morning and time to push on.
We are reminded that we grew up in a much simpler time- no computers or cell phones.
“Be home in time for dinner.”
And truly, what happened in the field, stayed in the field. You were swown to secrecy and if you were a tattle…well, I can’t tell you what would happen!!
Starting the morning with spaghetti westerns on TV brought that all back! And shows like Big Valley, Bonanza, Gun Smoke and Davey Crockett were set in areas that look like the roads we’re traveling. It is so easy to replay scenes in one’s mind while the miles tick off.

Missoula Montana

Welcome to Missoula, Montana—a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where natural beauty meets urban charm. Known for its lively arts scene, outdoor adventures, and welcoming community, Missoula offers a unique blend of cultural and recreational experiences. Surrounded by lush forests, majestic mountains, and the meandering Clark Fork River, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from hiking and fishing to river rafting and skiing. Explore the city’s historic downtown, where you'll find eclectic shops, delicious local eateries, and a thriving arts scene.

June 18th – Unplanned day off

While we had hoped to ride today, mail and weather dictated we stay one more night.
I am getting caught up with communication albeit it takes all day.
I slept late this morning. The mosquito bites from Thursday night are tormenting me. They swell and itch so much, it makes it hard to sleep. I took a benedryl last night to help calm the itch. I'm not used to taking medication so it really looped me. But, it did help with the itching. Thankfully, I have one more day to recover in a non-mosquito environment.

Jun 15th – Final day along the river

Yesterday was such a special day and its experiences have changed me forever. I feel such a sense of peace, spirituality and connection with the earth. Disconnecting, unplugging and being off grid is something many of us never experience.

As we prepare to leave our beautiful campsite at Wild Goose, a pair of ravens glide above. Today will be the Next Best Day Ever!

June 14th – Orofino to Wild Goose

Once packed, it was east on Highway 12 again. Not before long, we came across a road construction area and we were waved towards the front. The flagman and the pilot car spoke and we were told it was safest to load the bikes into the bed of the truck and ride to the end of the road closure so up went our heavy stead's. Drew sat between them on the ice chest as I climbed into the cab.