Fargo and Away

Morning of Day 3, Kai got going early as he had a steep climb ahead of him in iffy conditions. I slept in a bit longer.

I got going about an hour and a half later after packing up my bike and eating a big breakfast at the resort restaurant.

Before leaving I received two warnings about grizzlies being active in the area. I was already a bit nervous about riding the roughly 45 miles solo feeling like I did, but fear is a good motivator. I was just going to stay alert and keep moving. I took the safety off my bear spray canister and mounted it on my bike next to my right brake lever, and I was off.

The first part of my ride was rolling with several moderate climbs, and while feeling sluggish and still experiencing sinus pain, I managed a steady pace. I found it impossible not to stop and take in the beauty.

I was riding northbound on a part of the Tour Divide race course and crossed paths with several racers heading south. And then, about six miles up the road, I saw stopped cars on the side of road, and knew instantly I was about to see a bear.

Sure enough, about 75 yards into a field a grazing was foraging. It was a cool moment and I snapped a few pictures.

Park rangers were directing traffic and yelling at all pedestrians (and one biker) to move back so we were not within 100 yards.

I took the suggestion and pedaled on. I had a long way to go still. I stopped when I got tired, and tried to be in the moment.

Before long, I came across another line of stopped cars. This time, it was a black bear attempting to cross the road to the lake below.

Not wanting to be around I’d and when the bear got to the road, I moved on again.

It was a beautiful ride. Knowing that I might not be able to continue on, I savored it. Every turn brought another wow vista.

I rolled into Jackson mid afternoon, weary but content. I didn’t need to decide yet if I was done for the trip, I needed rest. I checked into my hotel, got some food, and went to sleep.