Day 64, September 8th, 53.06km and 776m climb, Wise River to Grasshopper campground
This morning we woke to thunder, lightening and the patter of rain. Fortunately it was short-lived and we were able to get everything packed and under cover without much getting wet. By the time we had finished breakfast, it was clear and a smokey sun was peering through the clouds.
Today we rode the Pioneer Scenic Byway. It was beautiful and had the added bonus of being sealed the whole way. We were hoping to see more than just free ranging cows but it was not to be. Yesterday we saw a coyote but today nothing bigger than a squirrel (except for the cows) even though the terrain was perfect for moose, elk and bear.
Unfortunately the smoke is still very present so the mountain views were not as spectacular as they would be ordinarily. Still, the river, meadows and rock formations were stunning. At lunch we chatted with a rancher who was 73 and manages 500 pairs he told us (mumma cow and baby we assume). Very interesting chap who told us about how they farm the animals by leasing the land from the Forest Service during summer and then keeping the cows inside during winter.
We finished the ride at the Grasshopper campground which unfortunately has had the potable water turned off for winter although still has toilets with loo paper and bear boxes. Many campgrounds are winterized from Labour Day which was Monday of this week so this will be an ongoing problem for us in places. It was much cooler today too with a cool wind blowing most of the day. The old timer at lunchtime said we might get a little snow tonight too! We have riding at around 2300m all day today so you never know!
The last photo below is of the bear boxes available at most USFS campsites.
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