Headin North

Friday, June 25,

Cruising through Montana

Following a leisurely departure from Cody, we began making our way north toward Montana. Others are working their way east across Wyoming, still others are headed for Utah.

We made a stop in Red Lodge to grab some great breakfast and got back on the road. Since we got a late stop we were taking some of the more expeditious roads. Only to encounter extended road construction, so much for saving time.

After a quick run along a portion of I-90, we turn onto US 89, a nice scenic two lane highway that takes us to Great Falls, MT. A few miles along the road, I noticed there were a few vehicles pulling off to the side ahead of me. As I got closer I could see they were attracted by a huge bull moose grazing out in an open meadow. This guy was BIG! I parked the bike, put down the kick stand and started looking for the camera. (Yes, I wasn't on the ball enough to have it out and ready). Now comes the frantic search, did I put it in the tour pack, not sure, the saddlebag, no, not there, tour pack again, yes, buried under a bunch of other stuff. Got it out, turned on, briefly reacquainting myself with the operation, ready to shoot. Looked up just in time to see him gallop off into the trees and cover.

I know, I know, this all sounds like an old fisherman's story of the one that got away. But we did see him. I am also aware this is not nearly as dramatic as Python's story of being nearly eaten by a grizzly, but it is about as good as I can come up with for now.

US 89 up to Great Falls is an awesome road, especially from White Sulpher Springs on up. The road follows a winding mountain stream nearly all the way. Mountains framed the setting on both sides, all punctuated with a variety of trees, meadows and wild flowers. Traffic was nearly nonexistent, allowing us to just relax and roll peacefully through nature's awesome painting. Well, as peacefully as can be done on a Harley.

Evening has us relaxing in Great Falls and wishing the best for all our other travelers.