The Big Sky (Country)… isn’t Falling! 🌌🏍️

When I plotted today’s route, I was disappointed that the ride would be substantially on I-90 for two reasons: 1) interstates are generally boring to ride, and 2) they are less scenic than secondary roads. However, there are exceptions to every rule, and I-90 through Montana is one of them.

While not as enjoyable as riding on US-2 through Washington yesterday, every ounce of Montana is beautiful! It’s hard to be upset when immersed in perfectly sculpted landscapes everywhere. For much of the 430-mile ride, the Clark Fork River follows alongside I-90 like a dependable sidekick. And with distant mountains that at times became part of the road under the wheels, the terrain sufficiently dispelled any boredom.

So the big sky (country) isn’t falling!

On the downside, there were few places to stop and take pictures. I forced one or two in, but the best shots were taken from my helmet camera. 📸

I pushed through an extra 80 miles beyond my original riding plan. Thus, I landed in West Yellowstone, MT for the night, right on the heels of the western entrance into Yellowstone. While hotel prices are higher here, it’s worth it to spend the extra time in one of our nation’s treasures tomorrow.

I arrived in West Yellowstone in time to grab dinner before the crowds, walk around town, and visit the local Yellowstone Historic Center Museum.

The town is a family-friendly place, and I understand why it appeals to others. But with its innumerable trinket shops and retro-western buildings, it doesn’t have much appeal to me.

The former-train-station-turned-museum was a bit drab, but appropriately priced with a $6 entrance fee. Interestingly, its big focus was on the history of transportation to Yellowstone - from stage coaches to a Ford Model T to trains. However, motorcycles and their adventurous riders were not historically significant enough to be mentioned... oh well. 🚂🚗

Otherwise, I’m looking forward to an early start in Yellowstone tomorrow to beat the crowds, see some bears 🐻, and maybe dance with an elk (that was a joke). 🦌💃