Day 10: The Bitterroot Trail

Missoula, Montana to Wisdom, Montana – American Legion Campsite

I got an early start and said goodbye to Jeremy. Leaving Missoula, I quickly ran into a Marathon in progress. Luckily, I didn’t have to reroute, and it was cool to see the Missoula Marathon runners. I had to go backtrack through Lolo, but it was a worthwhile trip to relax in Missoula for the afternoon.

Hopped onto the Bitterroot Bike Trail, and there were mountains all around. I crossed into the valley on the North, and then headed back South to cross the next range. I saw a few bikepackers going the other way. The Bike Path in Hamilton is very beat up and rough. This is apparently still part of the Lewis and Clark Trail, although I am now following the TransAmerica (TransAm) Trail until the Midwest. The bike path itself ends in Hamilton, and the trail is assumed by the the highway, Route 93.

I bought a sandwich in Darby, but am planning to eat it later – powering forward to try and beat the rain. Later, I stopped for lunch in the mountains. The road had no shoulder for a short stretch of 93 which was a little scary! I took a break when the rain and lightning started, at the base of the next big mountain pass. At the top of Lost Trail Pass, I met Steve and Chris who are off to some hot springs. Just a little climb further, now on 43 to Chief Joseph Pass at 7268 ft. Next was 15 miles of flatland as the mountains in the distance slowly got closer. There are dense clouds of gnats everywhere! Finally, after 120 miles, I came upon the American Legion Campground. There was free WiFi and a cabin! I ate a banana as a snack and, later was joined by another cyclist looking for shelter. His name was Didier, an Australian cyclist, originally from France. So, I have another biker to share my cabin tonight. Apart from the two of us, the entire campground is empty. I finished off the day with a nice (cold) refried bean burrito and prepared for another big day tomorrow. VIEW PHOTOS & VIDEOS –>

Distance: 119.81 (844.95 total miles)
Time: 9:16:15
Ascent: 5059
Descent: 2142