Day 9 East Galcier MT

The thunderstorms rolled through last night and dropped some much needed rain in the area. The gardens were happy but the rider’s spirits fell with the rain. Christine out did herself once again and got the guys started with a hearty breakfast of eggs and toast. Thanks again, Chris for the hospitality.

We drove to Glacier National Park, thinking that a climb to Logan Pass would be a great way to start the day of pedaling. Unfortunately the road was closed to cars so the team was on there own for the climb and descent. I am normally close by, so I get first hand info and stories for the blog. This time I will have to rely on them telling me all that happened, so here it goes. The climb began with a 45 degree accent, which was no problem until the wind started kicking up in to the nineties. That slowed them down a bit, but they pressed on it to three feet of snow…Actually the climb up was a grand time, the rain was heavy at times but the view kept them going. The road crews are still in the process of clearing the snow off the road and repairing many of the washouts and guardrails that had been removed by the previous winter’s avalanches. Rocks and gravel still strewn about on the road and water, three inches deep at times crossed the road in places. It was a busy day on the pass: many young kids and their mums were out and about enjoying park. Lots of questions about the “important” looking cyclist riding today, and many opportunities to spread the word of the Tyler Hamilton Foundation.

The team came off the mountain to hot chocolates and turkey sandwiches, an odd combo but it did the trick of getting them warmed up. As the riders warmed in the van, the rain began to fall heavier with the passing minutes. Looking at a long day involving Marias pass, the team decided to call it a day and stay warm and dry in the van for the two hour drive to East Glacier. Thanks to Sharon Wagner and her generosity the team was able to have a home for the night. With all the damp gear washed up and dried the riders are ready to hit the plains. Yeah for the flat country…
Quote for the day "Ride naked, It adds color to your cheeks", seen on a Maine plated car in the parking lot of the Firebrand Inn.