DRIVING THRU THE MOUNTAIN

---

In every walk with Nature one receives far more than he seeks. John Muir

We awoke in Ranchester, WY, at the Lazy R Campground. We were up early to start our trek across the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming. The early morning shadows along with the magnificent scenery was breathtaking. The climb was significant and we kept viewing signs indicating different geological indicators of rock and period. The Pennsylvanian, Mississippian, Dovorian, etc. are all represented and marked. When we left the temperature was almost 50 degrees and the elevation was about 4,000 feet, within an hour we were at 35 degrees and 9,000 feet, with snow piles in the shade.
We stopped for breakfast at one of the overviews, so with our fruit and yogurt we feasted on the mountains and the rolling hills and valleys and even a lake with early fisherman. We passed Medicine Wheel but it was quite cool and longer than we wanted to take, for a hike so we just passed by. Medicine Wheel is a sacred area of the native Americans it contains rocks in the form of a wheel.
There was one rock formation called Falling City and the falling rocks do look like a city falling down. Medicine Wheel Scenic Byway was wonderful and so much more enjoyable than the Interstate, but time consuming. Well worth the trade-off.
The Interstate has it usefulness, as we descended the mountains and started to Missoula some 400 miles away we were glad for the efficiency of the interstate. The rest of our day required driving. Our stop this evening is Beavertail Hill SP, near Missoula. As we drive we do notice strong winds as we drive 70 plus mph in and out of valleys and open areas. We are thinking of getting biking gloves to hold on to the steering wheel without a death grip.
This state park does not have a hook-up or a shower, we seem to be the only people in this park, we have chosen a spot right on the water. With no one around this is the perfect time to try the generator. It is great, and not loud at all. So dinner included a baked sweet potato, chicken, fresh asparagus, and salad-—not bad for camping.

---

Comments

[Allan]

NCT
Haven't been able to get in touch with Warren Smith. He must be away. Are you still going to send a newsletter. If you give me some ideas I will write it up. "You must be the change you wish to see in the world" Gandhi

[LInda Meyers]

Wow! What a climb!
On first reading, I thought you climbed, as in hiked, from 4000 to 9000 feet in an hour, and I was not surprised since I know you guys are in the greatest of shape. Nevertheless, it did seem nearly impossible. On second reading, I guess you aren't quite Supermen. . .! The photos are spectacular, worthy of framing! It must have been eerie alone in a campground without anyone around. Being a city girl, that thought alone frightens me, without even mentioning snakes and bears. Keep writing! I love to read your blogs! Love, Linda