Day 3 - Kalispell, MT

Day 3 is in the books. It started in Lethbridge, AB and ended after a full day in Kalispell, MT. No more border crossings for this guy (for now).

After learning my lesson about when border crossing stations open, I planned my departure to arrive at the crossing on the border of Glacier National Park right on time at 8 am. Unfortunately, that particular gate didn't open until 9 am! I guess I could have researched it on the web, but I was tired the night before. And I thought 8 am would be perfect. I got there right on time. I spent my free hour walking around a bit and then trying to find a place that was secluded from the persistent wind. Wind would be the theme of the day.

After mastering yet another border crossing, I was headed south into Montana. It was a pretty nice morning with clouds but no rain. But the wind. Oh, man, the wind. It was blowing 20-30 mph ALL DAY. You feel it in a car, but you really feel it on a bike. It is tiring and annoying. And when it does rain, it helps blow water past clothing that would normally protect you quite well. And I learned a new lesson today:

- Rain hurts at 70 mph. Hail hurts worse.

I was traveling to some dams around Great Falls and a line of storms approached. Having already seen the outcome of that kind of weather when we took a family vacation in South Dakota a few years ago, I decided to cut my dam hunting a bit short and seek shelter. Just as I pulled in to a covered gas station the heavens opened. It lasted about 30 minutes and I was off again.

The ride through Waterston Lakes and Glacier was awesome! I must go back when it is a bit warmer. In fact, the entire day of riding was pretty nice in terms of scenery. I included a few pictures below.

I have to say I am very happy with my hotels so far. Tonight's stay is at the Kalispell Grand Hotel in downtown. Walking distance to several good restaurants (and beer), nice room, neat ambience. Booking.com has done well for me so far.

Well, I am off to Rigby, ID tomorrow morning to see long-time friends Eric and Jodi. I will take Wednesday off from riding to visit with them - I can tell you my butt is looking forward to the break. And then it is off to Nevada and the loneliest highway.

I had plenty of time to compose my pictures since I had the wrong opening time (again!). This is on the Canada side in Waterston.

Obligatory national park sign.

And again, but this one is for 'Murica.

The penguin claims Cut Bank is the coldest spot in the nation. What about Alaska? Oh, you mean the nation of 48? OK, Penguin.

Ryan Dam near Great Falls, MT.

My hotel for the night - the Kalispell Grand Hotel.