July 4, 2008 Townsend to Harlowton, MT 101 miles (102)
Happy Birthday, U.S.A.! For the last 62 miles of yesterday’s ride we were on US 12; the same US 12 that goes through Arlington Heights, IL. my hometown. Today we continued on 12 for another 95 miles. The character of Route 12 in this part of the country is totally unlike home: two lanes versus four or six lanes, very few cars versus traffic counts in the tens of thousands, beautiful wide open scenery as opposed to mile after mile of commercial development. Yet, in spite of the differences, I felt comforted by the connection to home that 12 represented.

Today was a tough ride; the first 23.5 miles were almost all uphill – not a good wad to start! Added to this was a pesky headwind. Because we were going so, so, so slow while climbing the wind was not much of a factor but on the flats it became rather irritating. The wind was just strong enough that we even had to pedal on some of the downhills.

Climbing up and out of Deep Creek Canyon provided some of the finest views yet and when we finally reached the top the expansive vistas of Montana’s high range country had us in awe. This really is “Big Sky Country”!

We made it into White Sulfur Springs just in time for the Fourth of July parade, the second small town parade of our trip. This parade was so small that after traveling the length of main street (approximately four blocks) it turned around and came back! Just for those who may have missed it the first time. Big Riders overwhelmed Dory’s Cafe staff but it was the only place to get some food for the next 60 miles.

Harlowton’s camp was next to the rodeo arena. Locals, including cowboys, were still milling around after the conclusion of the annual rodeo. They looked at us mighty strangely in our bright colored jerseys and spandex riding shorts. The evening was spent watching a hot dog eating contest between several of the young guys, eating, and blowing off a variety of fireworks.