August 2010

Green, lush forest and … more snow

This is one of my last posts before reaching Canada.  What struck me (besides seeing snow at the higher elevations) is how lush and green the forest here is.  There is no sign of pine beetle damage. It’s a sad state when a forest stands out because it has no damage …

Snow … in AUGUST

While visiting Alaska, I remember a local snarkily remarking that there are 2 seasons there – winter and August.  It seems like August has been the one month you could pretty much count on good weather. Well, this year, people in all the states I visited north of New Mexico have commented on how wet …

Snow … in AUGUST Read More »

Forest Fire ahead!

While riding north and west of Helena, I came around a bend and noticed … a forest fire.  Those of you who where in Ketchum 3 years ago know what that experience can be like. The conditions were hot, dry & windy – perfect for a fire to become large, fast. And apparently that’s what …

Forest Fire ahead! Read More »

A forgotten Montana homestead …

While riding through a remote stretch of Montana, I came across this abandoned homestead that is – literally – miles from anywhere.  It reminds me of other equally desolate places I found in northern New Mexico. Imagine the fortitude it would take to have tried to create a home in this landscape …

Montana … Big Sky Country!

After a brief foray into Idaho, I arrive into Montana.  It is the often promoted as the land of “Big Sky”.  As you can see in this video, it’s true!  The valleys are wide, and the sky is everywhere …

My only Idaho check-in …

The Continental Divide Ride just barely cuts into Idaho before tracking back out into Montana.  This is the only Idaho check-in I made … and it was right before I left the state …