Back in (on) the saddle again!

After a well needed rest day due to a 16 or 17 hour ride with a high temperature of 41 and a bunch of rain, we awoke this morning to bluebird skies, ready to roll. Well, maybe a little stiff due to that rest day, but eager to get going.

At about 6:15, we started with 15ish miles of paved rollers, but with a 10% climb at mile 1. It was very short, but it felt like shit!

After that it was forest and fields. A beautiful morning. After seeing this photo, I think maybe somebody was watching over us today.

The paved roads finally gave way to the first dirt climb of the day. Whitefish Divide. Luke was rolling and I dangled off the pace and worked my way up the climb. Not a horrible climb, but maybe 3000’ in total.

After a quite long descent and some long straight dirt roads, we turned right to begin our second climb of the day, Red Meadow Pass. As We did, we stopped and made a proper lunch on the side of the road. Well, proper for the Tour Divide. The run-in was about 4 miles at 2-3% and while I was FEELING fast, Luke was in another level! He said it was the ramen and beef jerky stew we made for lunch. Whatever it was, it was rocket fuel.

After climbing solo, I arrived at the top to find Salty Cut laying down in one of the most picturesque spots one could imagine. He had been at the top for “about” 20 minutes.

After a few minutes taken to filter water and refill our stores, we started the descent towards Whitefish Montana. The drop was more of a mix of rollers and drops, but after about 1.5 hours we finally rolled into Whitefish and made a stop at the Tap House for Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches , Wings, chips and Salsa, and beer.

After finishing, we rode the remaining 9ish miles to Columbia Falls, MT where we’ll spend the night.

Just like every day on the divide, it’s another challenging day headed to Holland Lake, MT. It should be fun!

Ride On!

Shane