The Other Side of the Story

Wednesday, June 23

This day gave us all of us a real start. There was a large bright yellow ball rising in the east, and an unbelievable amount of blue color to the sky. Finally someone convinced us that it really was normal and everything would just fine.

As many of us had discovered, the best way to start the day in Cody is to walk across to "Our Place", a local little cafe that features a 25 cent bottomless cup of coffee and the best country style home cooking anywhere. Don't be surprised if you have to wait in line for a table.

Several of our folks who survived the Beartooth blizzard of the day before elected to journey to Yellowstone National Park and check that out. Many coming back at the end of day with tales of Bison controlling the roads and on one occasion a biker being used as bait to attract a grizzley closer to the road so the other tourists can get really close up photos. Reportedly the biker surmized the situation and made the wise choice of departing the scene before he and his passenger would become an enjoyable meal for the bear that has obviously recently awakened from hibernation and has a bit of an appetite.

Those that had spent the previous day exploring the town of Cody selected this as the day they would venture their way up the Beartooth Highway. Contrary to experience of the previous day's adventurists, they were treated to a stellar experience. Beautiful clear skies, nearly unlimited visability. They were able to enjoy to complete experience of riding the best motorcycle road in America. We will retrieve some of their photos and add them to this blog.

A few others took a loop route out to the east through the Bighorn Mountains, including a magnificant ride through Shell Canyon. Wyoming has experienced unusual amounts of rain this spring so the rivers and streams were running full; making waterfalls very spectacular. The bright sunny day and comfortable temperatures seemed to be effective in bringing out the wildlife as well. A few moose and several mule deer were seen grazing casually in the open mountain meadows.

The misadventures of the previously mention ride leader seemed to still be in effect. On the return route from the Bighorn Mountains, the trip included passing through the town of Byron, Wy. There resides in this little burg a police officer that seems to be suffering some form of Dirty Harry syndrome. You sure as heck cannot get by doing 39 mph through his itty bitty kingdom. Future travelers be duly warned when passing through Byron.

Again the day drew to a close with another gathering on the patio to share all the great stories of the day and the company of fellow bike friends. The bonding of the group grew stronger with each day and each adventure. These folks will be forever united through this journey.