My Motorcycle Summer in Montana

2011-12-26T13:36:00.001-08:00

2011-12-26T13:19:00.000-08:00

December 2011

Been a long spell since I've posted anything new here. After my long summer 56 county ride, I've been tethered close to home, plus bought a drift boat to distract my attention. Such a long wet , flooding spring, I was able to launch the boat in mid-July. I've thought about selling the bike off and on for the past two years. Every time I get close, I take a ride and convince myself not to sell, just yet. One more adventure lurking I'm sure. Posting a few photos, and have discovered I have forgotten my password, so a new one and we are on the way.

Photo taken on a ride on Christmas Eve Day, 2011

Best wishes to you all 2012.

Springtime in the Rockies

2010-05-24T16:21:00.001-07:00

Weather in Montana.

Sure it starts of to be a nice day.. then on the way home?

Good to have the gear. But just wait an hour and it will either be worse or better!

The best part is that you still get to live in Montana!

Great Falls Car and Bike Show

2010-05-07T04:03:00.000-07:00

May 1st was Cruising the Drag day in Great Falls. Cool weather could not dampen the enthusiasm for folks to show and see classic cars and Motorcycles. Here a couple of my fav's.

May 1st 2010

2010-05-01T18:06:00.000-07:00

Crusin' the Drag day in Great Falls! Weather was 'iffy" in the morning, and spring in the afternoon. Enjoyed, a couple of classics. HD an Indian and the Corvette I covet.

If April Showers bring May flowers. What do Mayflowers bring?

April 13, 2010 snow

2010-04-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

Much needed moisture has finally arrived. Good for all growing things, not so hot for a ride. Next to the chair is an idea to help recycle the annual tree tree trimmings. I call it a TreePee.

While shooting a commercial at Ace Hardware, I asked the guy who always rides his Harley with side car to work, if he rode in the weather today. He said he did not have the bike anymore. When asked if he was getting a newer one, he said he wasn't sure, as he had hit a deer at 70MPH and totalled the bike. I will get his story facts and post in on line one of these days. Ride to stay alive. Full armour for Montana.

Blue Day

2010-04-06T04:28:00.000-07:00

Just heard from the owners of the Blue Anchor Cafe in Twin Bridges that they have closed the restaurant until economic times improve. OK, everyone, head to Twin and start spending money!

Thanks for the input

2010-03-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of you reading this blog and giving me feed back about my insane summer motorcycle ride. It's been hit and miss weather for riding this month. Ocaccional trip to the hardware store helps to keep the gas circulating. Waiting to hear from someone who wants to take a ride to some point in MT with the alone rider. The bike is still for sale. Karma will determine how long it is ment to be. Spring brings the year of the yard. I'm making improvements on the greenhouse, and have trimmed the snot out of my shurbs and trees. Now we'll see how mother nature decides who will grow.

2010-03-15T08:28:00.000-07:00

Sunday, March 14th

Sunshine, 48 degrees, no wind! Best kind of day for a quick 65 mile round trip ride. Motored the side road to Cascade. Got the dust blown off the bike bike time! Bunch of riders out enjoying the sunshine.

March 13 2010

2010-03-13T10:16:00.000-08:00

First Peoples Buffalo Jump
Ulm, MT
Photo of my scooter pal Bobby and I jumping at the Buffalo Jump.

If you are a rider or thinking about the two wheel motorized adventure, it would serve you well to book mark and visit this site. http://motorcycle-intelligence.com

There's no business like snow business!

2010-03-10T09:23:00.000-08:00

Sure, two days after I get a little excitement with a short ride, we get snow two days in a row.

March 8, 2010

2010-03-06T14:01:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous day in Great Falls. 56 Degrees, no wind. I was in the garage doing some minor dinking around and the Iron Horse called out to me. He had been sitting idle since late October. I turned the key and saw it had battery life, so full choke hit the starter button and he roared to life. I just had to throw on the jacket and go blow the dust off both of us. Nothing like the first ride of a new year. Have to watch out for the islands of sand and gravel on all the street and road corners. The pot holes have been busy over this seemingly longer than usual winter. What a thrill! Now the struggle to balance yard and house work with the urge to play begins. Spring fever? Yeah

Say Hi To Dave

2010-03-05T11:21:00.001-08:00

Be sure to visit my friend Dave over at GreaterFalls.com!

The Alone Ranger finale?

2010-02-28T14:56:00.000-08:00

It's Spring of 2010 at this posting. I've been thinking of selling the Iron Horse.

Found another, bigger, more accessoried bike.. interested? 22 thousand miles on

a 2005 Yamaha 1100 V-Star. $5,500 if you act now!

POWDER RIVER LAST OF THE 56

2010-02-28T14:30:00.000-08:00

Powder River County Courthouse - Broadus, MT

Population: 1,858 in 2000 Established 1919

The last county! The 56th to be checked off the list. We celebrated by having lunch, reading the Sunday Billings Gazette, fueling up and getting back on the road. Craig and I are heading back on Hiway 212 which will take us through Lame Deer, Crow Agency and Little Bighorn Battlefield. A pretty ride through the meadows and valleys. 2.5 hours later we pulled into Hardin, a mere 315 mile run since breakfast. I thought about pushing back to Great Falls that evening, but another 300 miles in the dark was not as tempting as home cooked meal and a visit with Craig's other half Carla and their sons, David and Jonathan. I got home about 3PM. Rode in heavy rain from Hardin to almost Eddy's Corner. Particularly challenging was getting through the muddy road construction near Judith Gap. It was good to be home, and done with this summer of riding.

Friends ask if I would do it again. Yes, I would, but next time I will take the time it should take to appreciate the scenic beauty Montana has to offer, and to visit with the people who make a living and grow where they are planted. I been thinking of combining a ride with the goal of shooting photos of the vanishing cabins, homesteads, ranches, and elevators. I will some day buy a camera that will help capture this wonderful state of Montana.

Dynamic Duo Road Photos

2010-02-28T14:24:00.000-08:00

Crossing the Powder River on Hiway 12 heading to Miles City. Going to Broadus for lunch and the last County to check off the list of 56.

Dynamic Duo "On the Road"

2010-02-28T12:11:00.000-08:00

Leaving Party Town

2010-02-28T12:04:00.000-08:00

After breakfast we headed back towards Baker.

Dynamic Duo in Ekalaka

2010-02-28T11:58:00.000-08:00

Carter Co with the partying Dynamic Duo

2010-02-28T11:31:00.000-08:00

Carter County Courthouse

Ekalaka, MT

Pop: 1,360 Established 1917

We cruised in to Ekalaka about 7:30. Hot and tired, we found the courthouse in record time. (tallest building in town) as we clicking the photo, a tractor with hay trailer pulled up along side our motorcycles. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a sign that said;"The Church of..." There were a number of people on the haywagon, but I was busy putting the camera away. They shouted out, come down to the church for a pot luck party and dance! Now, I had been suckered into a church before with the promise of a good time. Turned into a night of trying to get back to the ship I was on with out getting converted to some wierd religion. So, I said. "No thanks, we're going to find a camping spot, get dinner and call it a night". Then I noticed the people in the wagon were drinking beer, in fact they were holding out their hands with ice cold beer in them. I looked again at the sign on the wagon, and it read: The Church of Hank Williams.

We again begged off the invitation, and they told us where the only campground was. We motored over and set up camp. Craig was in the shower when the group came back to offer us a ride to the big event, which was a fund raiser for a young married couple. The husband had been injured in an accident and medical bills were making life difficult. We again turned down the offer of a ride, but I contributed some money to the cause in exchange for two cold beers. It was sunset when we walked downtown and found a great little restaurant that had a bar up front. We enjoyed a good steak, and decided to walk to the Church of Hank Williams to see what was going on. We heard the celebration before finding the location. I would almost bet 3/4 of the town was kicking up their heels at a machine shop that had a sing that boasted it was the Church of Hank Williams. The hay wagon pulled in with another load of folks, and they had a guitar player, accordion, and a fiddle player. I knew we were in for a fun and long night. Here are a few photos of what I remember of our evening. In one of the hard to see photos, there are women's bras and swimsuit tops hanging in the rafters. Don't ask.. I'm not telling.

Fallon Co with the Dynamic Duo

2010-02-28T11:22:00.000-08:00

Fallon County Courthouse
Baker, MT
Pop: 2,837 in 2000
Established in 1913

Oil and cows put Baker on the map. Baker features a nice sized reservoir skirting town. Some newer homes are lake side, but the water had the odor of a prairie water hole. Looks like they have a lot of fun on the water here. We thought about camping here, but felt there might be something in Ekalaka or the Medicine Rocks State Park, so we pushed on..

Prairie and Wibaux Co. with the Dynamic Duo

2010-02-28T11:05:00.000-08:00

Prairie County Courthouse

Terry, MT

Population 1,119 in 2000

Established 1915

Getting hot! Drinking lots of water. I should have knocked out Wibaux (we-bow) county when I made the big Northern loop. Now it means we have to ride to Glendive on I-94 and on to the town of Wibaux. If I had done this before, we could have back tracked the 35 miles to Miles, and cut over to Baker. on #12. The trouble with the loop is there is only one paved road to Ekalaka, and its the same road out again. I was hoping that in 25 years they woud have paved the road from Ekalaka to Broadus. No such luck.

Wibaux County Courthouse

Wibaux, MT

Population: 1,068

Established 1914

It's about 4 Pm on September 6th. The town was very quiet. We snapped a photo and headed for Baker on Hiway 7.

Custer Co with the Dynamic Duo

2010-02-28T09:29:00.001-08:00

Custer County Courthouse
Miles City, MT Pop. 11,696
Established in 1865

Wow, had Miles City ever changed. We came in the East entrance and I had no landmarks to go by. Everything had been built up! We headed for lunch at the Grenz's 600 Cafe, hoping it was still alive and well. Maybe is was the 25 years I'd been gone that distorted my memory, but Downtown looked different. While ordiering lunch I asked if Butch Grenz still owned the place, and was informed he had sold it to his daughter, and that he was downstairs baking. He stopped by our booth for a visit, and we caught up on a few old days stories back when I was the Chambers Executives Director. When I went to pay the tab, I was
told Butch had already paid for it. I've always said when it comes to living places on the prarrie, Miles City folks were the best. I need to go back someday, and poke around town again. If you ever want a true modern wild west experieince, go to the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale. Its always the 3rd weekend in May. I went to find my old house, and could not remember the address! We drove around a bit looking for it, but got frustrated, so we gases up and headed for Terry.

600 Cafe, Main Street Miles City Cousin Craig cruizen Eastern MT

Rosebud Co.

2010-02-28T09:15:00.001-08:00

Rosebud County Courthouse - Forysth, MT

Population in 2000 - 9,383 Est. 1901

Cousin Craig met meat the junction of Hiway 47 and I-94 , near Custer, MT. We rode into 44 miles in to Forsyth. It is now Sept 5, and the weather was beautiful. I was excited to move n to Miles City, Where I had lived for three years in the early 90's. It was nice to have someone help save time by taking take a photo.

Carbon Co.

2010-02-28T06:27:00.000-08:00

Carbon County Courthouse - Red Lodge, MT Population 9,552 in 2000

Established 1895

I spotted a sign on the lawn of a Motel that said tent camping so I pulled in. What deal! For $35, I got a nice grassy spot, hot shower, and breakfast the next morning. Red Lodge was packed!

There was a country music concert on the fairgrounds, and downtown was buzzing. It was getting dark, so I set up camp and set out to find a meal. The nearest bar with in walking distance was Sam Hoffmann's Red Lodge Ales Brewing Company. I arrived too late for a meal as the kitchen had closed for the night.

I settled for the seven sampler beer tray (twice) and several bags of chips and peanuts. The next morning, I was happy to find the breakfast bar was in full operation with a fine selection of my favorite items. The cooks name was Art! He did a fine job of telling stories and culinary entertainment. I might like his job when I retire.

Stillwater Co.

2010-02-28T06:09:00.001-08:00

Stillwater County Courthouse

Columbus, MT

Population 8,195 in 2000

Established 1913

Pulling off I-90 I was amazed at how Columbus had become a freeway mecca. McDonald's, big truck stops, hotels. Who'd a thunk? It is here you catch Hiway 79 and start the incredibly journey to Red Lodge edging along the Custer National Forest.

Sweet Grass Co. Part 2

2010-02-28T05:48:00.000-08:00

Sweet Grass Co. Courthouse

Big Timber, MT

Because It was raining so hard during the last photo I took of this courthouse, and because it was on the way, I thought you might like to see it in the sunshine. I was surprised how much it had rained this summer. Just about every trip included a bout of moisture. I am on my way to meet cousin Craig. He agreed to ride the South Eastern leg and completion of my 56 County quest with me.
I am cruising I-90 to get to Stillwater Co. and then to Carbon Co, the small pocket of counties I as not able to get to due to the rain delay the last time I was in Big Timber. My now I am getting used to 12-16 hour rides. I keep thinking 8 more hours a day and I could mix it up with he Iron Butt Club. I also know it dangerous it is to push past rest stops and losing mental focus. Stupid kills.

Virginia City

2010-02-27T06:56:00.000-08:00

Virginia City is fairly well preserved from its root'n toot'n shoot'n days as a gold mining frontier town. You must take in the live theater presentations, train and buggy rides, and have your photo taken by an old time photography studio. In the mid 80's, I raced here from Bozeman, to video tape the arraignment of Don and Dan Nichols. They were the self styled mountain men who kidnapped Kerry Swenson, killed one of her attempted rescuers, and was tracked down and captured by County Sheriff Johnny Frances after a very long manhunt. I was working for KTVM TV in Bozeman at the time, and the footage went to all the Major networks. I don't remember getting paid for it, but it was worth the fame. Oh, yeah, I did not get credit for that either. Part of which shaped my management style to give credit where credit is due.

Madison Co.

2010-02-27T06:49:00.001-08:00

NM Madison Co. Courthouse - Virginia City, MT

Established 1864 - Population 6,851

Steam engines and I

2010-02-27T06:38:00.001-08:00

From Twin Bridges you take Hiway 267 to Virginia City in Madison County. Bikers love this road. Scenic, and enough turns to keep you on full alert. Nevada City was firing up the steam engine for the tourism run to Virginia City. Rumor has it they are retiring the line and putting the engine in a museum. You can also see miles and miles of ripped up river valley floor as the result of intensive dredge and water blast sluice mining for the elusive gold.

More Twin Bridges

2010-02-27T06:24:00.001-08:00

Great place to eat in Twin Bridges.

I had a delicious breakfast and visits with the owners of the Blue Anchor Cafe. It is refreshing to dine at an old school restaurant that follow a courteous protocol with the floor and kitchen staff.

When the server inputs the order, they call "Order in please!" To which the kitchen cook says, "Thank you!" and the reverse order when your food in placed in the holding area. I hope they operate for many years because you really need to experience this culture of culinary.

Twin Bridges rest stop

2010-02-27T05:59:00.001-08:00

Twin Bridges Campsite for cyclists. Meet two young men from Switzerland, one of which was on a two year ride from the top of Canada to the tip of South America, and the other came for a one month ride and to provide moral support for his friend. I set up my tent, walked downtown to call my wife. No Cell phone service for Verizon in Twin! Bought a six pack of Heineken (the international beer) and we shared stories and solved the problems of the world. What a wonderful repose for travelers. On one side was the bike camp and the other was a comfort station and overnight RV parking. I pitched at the bike camp because RVs use generators and the noise and smell make for a restless night.

Deer Lodge & Beaverhead Co.

2010-02-27T05:32:00.000-08:00

Deer Lodge County Courthouse

Anaconda, MT

Pop. 9,417 Established 1864

The Highway 1 loop from Phillipsburg to Anaconda was terrific. I arrived in town about 5PM. An old factory town, Anaconda was showing some signs of wear and tear. The upper dome of the Courthouse is in need of restoration. I would be a shame to see it deteriorate and have to be taken off. I think this is one of the more beautiful courthouses in Mt. I took a break at the rest stop near I-15, laid on the grass and took a short nap before mounting up for the run to Dillon, my planned camping spot for the night.

Beaverhead Co. Courthouse

Dillon, MT

Population: 9,202 - Founded 1864

After scoping out the KOA and camping sites in Dillon, I decided to push down Hiway 41 towards Twin Bridges. Glad I did even though it was the deer dodging time of day. I pulled into Twin Bridges about 8:30 and had to find a nesting spot before dark. Wow, did I ever find a spot! It was one of the highlights of my trip.

My Mountian

2010-02-27T05:25:00.001-08:00

Can you see
the ART?
Kinda looks like a
security scribble for
web site verification.
Ok. The hill in front
cuts of the legs of the R.

Powell and Granit Co.

2010-02-27T04:36:00.001-08:00

Powell Co. Courthouse

Deer Lodge, MT

Pop. 7,180 Est. 1901

August 28, 09. After a two week hiatus, I hit the road for the South West section of Montana. I zipped down the interstate to Helena, rode 12 to Garrison, then I-90 to Deer Lodge. Deer Lodge in Powell Co. is home to the state Prison. I think they might count the prison inmates as part of the population. Nice warm day, lots of traffic as folks were taking advantage of the last week of recreation before school starts.

Back tracking West on I-90 to Drummond I picked up Highway #1 for the gorgeous ride to Phillipsburg in Granite Co.

Granite County Courthouse
Phillipsburg, MT
Pop. 2,830. Established in 1893

Phillipsburg has reinvented itself as a destination attraction for visitors. The Sweet Shop is a must see stop for you chock-o-holics. I fueled up on some tasty milk chocolate. As I was loading the camera gear up, I notices the ski hill nearby had carved my initials on the mountain. It's a stretch but if you saw my handwriting you would
swear I wrote it myself.

Wheatland Co.

2010-02-26T04:17:00.000-08:00

Wheatland County Courthouse

Harlowton, MT

Population 2,259 - Established 1917

Harlowton is an interesting place. Tons of railroad history and has a kick butt rodeo in the summer. Hit the road after snapping the photo. Wanted to get home and had two hours of road time to get there.

Musselshell & Golden Valley Co.

2010-02-25T18:12:00.000-08:00

Musselshell County Courthouse - Roundup, MT

Pop. 4,497 in 2000

Established 1911

Cousin Craig and I parted in Billings, and I rode North on 87 towards the Bull Mountains. A ride of scenic contrasts. As I approached the foothills, it started to sprinkle, so I pulled over and put on the rain gear. A couple on a Gold Wing from Nevada passed me and made gestures like "What? A little sprinkle tough guy?" About five miles down the road it started to rain hard, and I passed them along the road huddled under what looked to be a plastic garbage bag, digging through a bag no doubt looking for rain gear. Roundup is a pretty town. Loved the bronze sculptures in a well kept garden offset in the front of the courthouse. Turned on to Hiway 12 for the 36 mile run to Ryegate. Loved the ride. Kept the rain gear on.

Golden

Valley County Courthouse

Ryegate, MT

Pop. 1,042 Est. 1920

Looks like I had a few water spots on the camera lens. Some one tried to tell me they were spirit spots, but after cleaning the lens I can verify they were rain drop spots.. albeit very spirited ones. Met Cindy Ceiluch and her assistant at the gas station. Cindy was the wedding photographer at Bobby and Kendall's wedding, and she and I had worked together at KRTV. Sun had broken up the clouds, and warmed up considerably. Fun ride along the sandstone cliffs on the way to Harlowton. Snakes were sunning themselves on the road. Always concerns me that I might get hit one and it wraps arounds my foot and bites me. The things you think about at 70 MPH.

Big Horn & Treasure Co.

2010-02-25T16:47:00.000-08:00

Big Horn County Courthouse -
Hardin, MT

Population 12,671 in 2000 - Est. 1913

Cousin Craig put me up for the night in Hardin. Kinda funny, I ran in to him at the Hardin gas station, so I was able to follow him home, which was good as it was dark, and I had not been to his home in years. We left early the next morning for a dual ride to Treasure Co. To this point I had not ridden with a partner. New rules for riding.Its so tempting to ride side by side, but that can lead to trouble. It was a breezy but sunshine filled day.

Treasure County Courthouse - Hysham, MT

Population 861 - Established 1919

Here I am looking at my wallet. The weather was warm. Got lots of looks from the locals peeking out the window to see what two men on bikes were doing in front of the courthouse. Really cool museum and movie theater in Hysham. I'd come back just to experience a film here.

How cool is this. Yucca Theater - Hysham, MT

Yellowstone Co. and a Wedding!

2010-02-25T04:29:00.000-08:00

Yellowstone County Courthouse - Billings, MT

Population in 2000 - 129,352 - Established 1893

The plan today was to wander down to Sheridan, Wyoming for Bobby and Kendall's wedding, and stay with my cousin Craig in Hardin that night. Craig had recently purchased a Vulcan and we talked about taking a short ride on Sunday.

Hit a bit of rain just over the MT/WY border, and looked like it could be a wet wedding that was planned for out door. I had arranged for my wedding clothes to be taken to Sheridan by another guest.

The weather cooperated and the wedding came off with a hitch!

Park & Sweetgrass Co.

2010-02-24T18:12:00.001-08:00

Park County Courthouse - Livingston, MT

2000 population 15,694. Founded 1887

Indeed the rain hit was I started up the pass from Bozeman to Livingston. I had to pull off the freeway because the rain combined with temperature in side my helmet made for a visual nightmare.

The rain began to let up to a drizzle, so got back on the road and into Livingston. Notice the yellow pack on the back of the bike. It was a garage sale item for 50 cents. A heavy thick rubber white water rafting dry bag. A great asset on this trip. Clouds were threatening rain again, but I thought I could out run it to Sweetgrass Co. and Big Timber.

Sweetgrass County Courthouse - Big Timber, MT

Boy, was I ever wrong about out running the storm. I got pounded about 6 miles outside of Livingston. I looked to see if I could get off the free way and take a side road into Big Timber. Big news, No side roads that could get you from Livingston to Big Timber. I-90 Truck traffic was brutal. OTR trucks and pick-ups with trailers were making visibility scary. Now the lightning was spewing all over, and the rain was very heavy. I saw an exit sign, which meant I could seek shelter under the overpass. As approached the overpass, I was met by about 30 Harley riders who had totally blocked the road and were huddled under the bridge. I had been meeting a lot of groups of riders headed for

Sturgis on the road and a fuel stops. A quick assessment of the situation told me to turn around and hit the road. After this photo, the water spigot was turned on, and the water was running like a river down the Streets of Big Timber. I think the weather report said there was 2 inches of rain in a little over an hour. I parked the bike under a closed business awning, and ran for cover in a bar restaurant. I had supper and waited for the storm to pass. I would put me two hours behind schedule. I call my Friend Jeff to warn him I was running late. I thought if I could get to Billings by 9PM it would still be time to visit and catch a few blues sets at the festival. I gave up on my schedule after two hours in the bar. I did however have a chance to dry out. Had to bypass Still Water and Carbon Co. to make it Billings by 11:30. Festival was shut down. Jeff had to come and guide me to his house. It was a short night, as we had booked a golf T-time for 7:30 with Jeff and his dad Lonnie. I played well. Good catch up time as we had to sit out for about an hour out on the back nine. Chalk it up to the adventure. It's all good.

Gallatin Co.

2010-02-24T17:09:00.001-08:00

Gallatin County Courthouse - Bozeman, MT

2000 population - 67,871 - 2507 sq miles

Established - 1864.

Another heartache place for me. I lived here in the 8o's and still has great memories. I owned a house for a few years in Bozeman. Lost it in a divorce, and was a real turning point for my life. I had not been back to Bozeman for many years, and when I did return in 1989, was shocked to see the amazing growth that has occured. Afternoon weather was starting to set in. Thunder clouds were developing oover the mountians and I knew I was in for a rainstorm on the way to Livingston.

Sharp dressed man and me.

Jefferson & Silverbow Co.

2010-02-24T16:46:00.000-08:00

Jefferson Co. Courthouse

Boulder, MT

Population 10,049 Established 1864

August 7, 2009

What a beautiful courthouse! This leg of the journey of 56 will take me to a wedding.

A co-worker, Bobby, was getting married in Sheridan Wyoming on the 8th of August.

I was one of the fortunate few to be invited to such as special event. I was not fully equipped for rain riding. New bike gloves, jacket, a second set of boots to keep my feet dry. I laughed to think that August should be one of the driest months in Montana. So far on this adventure I think I have been rained on, or at least sprinkled on during every ride. This trip would be nautical. Left Great Falls at 12:30 and ended in Boulder at 2:15. Great camping near here.

Silverbow Co. Courthouse - Butte, America.

Pop. 34,606 Est. 1881

Love this town. They were having a jazz/folk festival on this day, and the streets were filled with people ready to blow off steam. Note my snazzy new leather jacket. How did I live with out it? Courthouse is in the older part of Butte, and built on a steep grade.

I wanted to make Billings by nightfall so I could spend some time with my former Great Falls buddy, Jeff at a blues festival. not an an unreasonable goal, if every thing goes well. And that my reader, is another story.

Flathead Lake

2010-02-24T16:36:00.000-08:00

View from the dock of my Flathead Lake Hosts Don and Ann Mary. Two of the best on earth!

Early morning song tribute to my mother, the lake and my bed and breakfast hosts. The Flathead Valley is a very spiritual and healing place

Missoula & Lake Co.

2010-02-24T04:05:00.000-08:00

Missoula Co.Courthouse - Missoula, MT

Pop: 95,802 Est. 1864

Missoula, birth town of my two children, second home owned, University of Montana education, 2nd and 3rd broadcast jobs. So many memories of life in the 70's. Sigh. There are times I wished I still lived here, but Great Falls is where I feel most connected. Found a real live leather jacket with all the features I've been needing. Snap neck collar, sleeve zips, and black to match the chaps I found in Great Falls. Stopped at the local spirit shop and bought a couple bottles of wine for my hosts.

Lake Co. Courthouse
Polson, MT

Population: 26,507 Est. 1923

Last court house stop for this leg of the journey of 56. I had not counted on riding on gravel for 30 miles at 25 MPH on Hiway 93 North. It was Saturday and there tons of people heading for the lake and Glacier Park. Both the bike and I were dusty and ready for a break.

Mineral and Ravalli Co.

2010-02-23T18:40:00.001-08:00

Mineral Co. Courthouse - Superior, MT

Population: 3,884 Established: 1914

I had been riding for so long on two lane roads that I almost forgot what the freeway was like. Interstate travelers, I think , are numb from driving so they tailgate and make me nervous. Traffic was heavy and kept me on my pegs to stay out of harms way. Starting to warm up. Bike is running well and rode at max speed limit. Motored through Missoula for the 60 mile run to Hamilton.

Ravalli Co. Courthouse - Hamilton, MT

Pop. 36,070 Est. 1893

Very busy Hiway 93! Even thought the road is four lane in spots, it still feels like the dangerous Hiway 93 I remember from the 70's. Had lunch about 1:30 and headed for Missoula. I had plans to stay with old friends on Flathead Lake, and was looking forward to it.

Sanders Co.

2010-02-23T16:41:00.000-08:00

Sanders Co. Courthouse

Thompson Falls, MT

Pop. 10,227 Established 1906

Excellent ride from Libby down the Bull River Valley on Hiway 56. Saw very few deer, and had a little thin fog for a few miles. This is beautiful country, and I see quite a few summer cabins along the route. Had breakfast in Thompson Falls. Gassed up at a serv-ur-self with a great view of the Clark Fork river.

Caught the Junction of 135 to get out to I-90 for the leg into Sanders County and the City of Superior.

Flathead & Lincoln Co.

2010-02-22T20:52:00.001-08:00

Flathead Co.Courthouse

Kalispell, MT 6-12-09

Pop. in 2000 74,471 Established 1893

Hit Kalispell about 6:oopm. Beautiful summer day. Missed the Art in the Park event as they were closing for the evening. I was hoping to run into a few folks I know from my nine years of living in the Flathead. It's been 9 years since I last stopped in the area and was shocked to see how much it had changed. In the summer it's still one of the most magical places on earth. Because of the proximity to Glacier Park, Flathead Lake and some fine recreational areas we had a saying. "The Flathead. Nine months of clouds, three months of company." The day my newly wed wife and I left, we hauled our home furnishings thru three feet of snow to the moving van. I grabbed a quick supper from the grocery store, gassed up, and headed the 80 Miles to Libby. This road can be thick with dear at this time of day, so my adrenaline kept me alert. The events of the day were piling up on me, and I just wanted to get to Libby and bed down for the night.

Lincoln County Court House

Libby, MT

Found a great little campground to pitch my tent. The Two Bit RV Park. Friendly with showers and a welcome biker sign. I journaled a bit about my mothers passing, called my wife, sister and brother. Drank a pint of vodka, crawled in my sleeping bag and had a fitful nights sleep. Beautiful morning the next day, gassed up, snapped a photo and continued west on Highway two to catch the south bound 56 to Sanders Co.

Myrtle B. Taft crosssed over 7-10-09

2010-02-22T04:12:00.000-08:00

July 10th, 2009

Another furlough day to take on Friday. I had some vacation time so I took off on Thursday at noon. I was looking forward to this loop as it would take me through the North West mountain region. I had made arrangements to stay with an old friend I had worked with in the 70's. He and his bride grew up in Montana, but left for greener pastures in the Pacific Northwest after college and a few years of working in TV in Missoula. He had recently semi retired, and was working part time for KAJ-TV in Kalispell, and invited me to spend the night at their place on Flathead Lake. I left from work and headed to Shelby to see my mother before taking Hiway 2 through the eastern front of the Rockies, rounding the edge of Glacier Nat'l Park, and the beautiful Flathead Valley.

As I was walking towards my mothers room at the assisted living facility in Shelby, a nurse came running down the hall and asked me not to go into her room. I asked why and she said the doctor was in with her. I asked what was up, and she said that mom had died about 20 minutes earlier. She had been struggling for the past week, and for the better part of her life had always said "I'll go when and where Jesus wants me." July 10th was the day, 1:30 the time. She was 96. I called my wife and brother to let them know, and he told me everything was arranged. We discussed me securing her valuables before leaving the home,and going up to visit with our sister. I called my other sister in Tacoma to let her know, and went into mom's room, said goodbye, gathered up her purse and jewelry, bagged them up and took them to my sisters home. When I rode up to her house, I noticed her daughter-in-law, and grand daughter was with her. I shared the news, had a good cry with my sister, and we visited for another hour.
Mom had told my brother and his wife she wanted to have a memorial service in Sept, so there was not much to be done. I must say have things pre-arranged in your life makes it a lot easier to deal with. My brother said he would take care of the remaining items in the room the next day. I decided the best way to grieve was to do so on the iron horse. So I fired up and took a very sad journey towards the mountains. I've always found the mountains to be a place of healing and soothing to the soul.

Chouteau Co.

2010-02-21T13:07:00.001-08:00

Chouteau Country Court House

Fort Benton, MT 6-2-09

The Birthplace of Montana! The farthest point west steamboats could travel on the Missouri River. Fort Benton is a wonderful stop to spend a day. There was a classic car run that day, and a few were taking a break to enjoy the scenery.

Blaine Co. revisited

2010-02-21T12:51:00.000-08:00

Blaine County Courthouse

Chinook, MT 6-12-09

Pretty day for the ride. Temps in the 70's. Took some time to look around Chinook. Toured the Blaine Co. Museum and watched the production of the battle of the Bear Paw. It makes me sad to learn how the white settlers treated the natives. Sadder yet, how white washed and poorly history was taught about how the west was really won.

Blaine County Museum

One of two must stop and see spots in Chinook.

A new Wildlife Museum was opened in 2010, and it's a winner! I spoke to the Chamber Banquet in March of 2010 and was given a tour of what I called a "Dead Zoo". Knocked my socks off. Worth the drive..always.

Hill Co & road signs

2010-02-21T12:43:00.000-08:00

Truth in advertising along Hiway 2

Catch a few winks or the Buffalo Jump in Havre

Hill Co. Court House
Havre, MT
Population in 2000 16,673 Est. 1912

Liberty Co

2010-02-21T08:29:00.000-08:00

The Sweetgrass Hills at Sunrise - Shelby, MT

Spent the night at my sister's house in Shelby to get an early start on county loop #4. I had to back track to Chinook, so thought I would take a day to do a four county loop.

Beautiful calm morning as I started to run for Liberty County and Chester. Highway 2 was was lousy with gophers and the crows and hawks feeding on them. Whacked one with my lower left side foot peg. Messy.

Liberty County Court House
Chester, MT June 12-2009
Pop. 2,158 Est. 1920

Smooth riding to Chester. No wind, warm sunshine. Surprised to find Main Street is a one way. Unusual for a town this size. Got my photo, and met a couple of the county workers in side when I went to ask where they would have breakfast. The obvious choice was the SPUD Cafe. So I motored down the street to the cafe, realizing that I was going the wrong direction on the one way! County sheriffs vehicle down the block saw me as I made a quick u-turn that just happened to end up in front of the Spud Cafe. I figured he would come by for a visit, so I was prepared to offer him a cup of coffee, and yes, maybe a doughnut. I met the semi new owner of the cafe, Kim Miller, and she knocked my taste buds out with a skillet special. This would be a must stop for lunch or breakfast next time you travel Hiway 2 across Montana.

Main Street - Chester, MT

Road trouble part 2

2010-02-21T07:52:00.000-08:00

Most Miserable ride to date.
June 6th.

When I woke up at Deb and Brian's house in Havre and looked out the window to 3 inches of snow, I dreaded the thought of riding 110 miles in a consistently falling snow. I went back to bed and fretted. When I heard my hosts moving around, I got up, checked the weather channel, then to krtv.com for the radar/Doppler and forecast. I called Kim, and she said it was only raining in Great Falls. The snow was wet, but not building up on the hiway, so I borrowed some golf pants to wear over my chaps, put on all the clothing that would fit under the jacket, covered up with the yellow rain shirt and hit the road. Other than the fact visibility was constant battle, the Highway 2 was in good shape. Spray from other vehicles was a bummer. About 50 miles to go, I was about a cold as I could ever remember. My gloves were wet, by boots were wet, and I started to feel wet on my shoulders. The topper was the last 10 miles being trapped behind a garbage truck spewing spray of what ever waste residue was in the last load, and a Hummer whose driver thought it was fun to make me a grill ornament. I swear if I thought I could find , let alone grip my hand gun I would have drilled a few rounds in his 10 foot behind me Hummer grill. I was about to pass the truck, when a long stream of cars came towards me. I pulled bake in behind the garbage truck and waited for the next straight stretch. My windshield was slimmed up with road oil and garbage mist. As I signaled to go around the truck, the Hummer pulled out and around me. As the Hummer tail lights rounded the garbage truck they lit up, The driver of the garbage truck hit his brakes swerved left to the shoulder of the road, I followed suit, hit the brakes an out of the corner of my eye saw the remains of a recliner chair that had been detonated by the Hummer. God love a dummy, it could have been me smacking that chair on a wet hiway and run over by a garbage truck and quite likely the Hummer. When I pulled to my garage, I was wet to the core. I took off my boots and poured out a pint of water. I was fully committed to buying proper riding gear before riding the iron horse again.

Blaine Co and troubles on the road

2010-02-20T19:11:00.000-08:00

Blaine County Court House

Chinook Mt. 6-5-09 Population in 200 7,009

Est. 1895

True confession. I got lost looking for the Court house in Chinook. By the time I found it, it was too dark for the flash to get an image. Usually you can spot the court house by it's dome or in larger communities by the way the founding fathers platted the land.

All Lake and river towns have similarities, as do rural spacious city designs. I called my Niece Debbie in Havre to ask for a place to land for the night. Got to Havre about 10PM, and welcomed a shot and a beer offered by her husband Brian. We had a good time catching up and me telling about my quest to this point.

Havre, MT June 6th.

I woke up set to get on the road at 5:30AM. Looked out the window and saw three inches of snow on the ground! I called my wife to ask her if she would drive the truck up to Havre and we'd truck the bike back to Great Falls. Her words of wisdom have become the motto for the subsequent 37 Counties I have yet to ride. She said, "Honey." "When you bought the bike, you bought the lifestyle." "Just don't be late for supper" Nuff said.

Phillips Co.

2010-02-20T04:17:00.001-08:00

Phillips County Court House

Malta, MT Pop. 2000- 4,601 Est. 1915

June 5, 2009 8PM

Breaking the law once again. Fortunately It was 8 at night and law enforcement has better crime stops to make. Daylight is fading fast and I am letting go that I will not make it back to Great Falls tonight. I am mentally and physically tired, and have to remind myself this is when bad judgment kills bikers. The weather was definably changing. There was a classic and hot rod car rally happening in Malta. Just too cool to see all the classics cruising the drag. I think they still race for registration slips out here. Just another code of the west. Put up or shut up. Hit the road at 8:20 and raced for Chinook.

Roosevelt & Valley Co.

2010-02-20T03:22:00.000-08:00

Roosevelt County Courthouse

Wolf Point, MT

Population in 2000 - 10,620 Est. 1919

The wind between Scoby and Wolf Point on Hiway 13 was horrific! The good news was it turned sunny during this leg of the trip. But my head was constantly being pounded by the side wind. Felt as if I had a passenger constantly whacking me on the head with a 6 pound pillow. It took 2.5 gallons of gas to travel the 50 miles between Scoby and Wolf Point. The town was busy. I discovered why when I saw the carnival rides on the fairgrounds.

it was 5:00PM at this stop. I had been on the road for about 11 hours at this point, and was feeling it. Glasgow was only another hour, and I told my self, I might have to call it a day there.

Valley County Court House

Glasgow, MT

Pop. n 2000 7,675 Est. 1893

Again, brutal wind on Hiway two, but this time I was headed West and riding with the wind. The sun window was open, but I could see the storm clouds building ahead, and the air was starting to chill. Snapped the photo and was on the road by 6:20 PM. It would be dark in a few hours and I set my goals to get to Malta and Chinook and call it a day.

Bike is running well and traffic was light heading west. Very dramatic scenery with the contrast of dark storm clouds and brilliant sunshine bouncing off the hills in the foreground. Gave me energy. While on the road my diet was water, caffeine, beef jerky and assorted nuts.

Sheridan & Daniels Co

2010-02-18T17:14:00.001-08:00

Sheridan County Court House

Plentywood, MT

My first ever visit to Plentywood. I had a work acquaintance back in my Missoula days who grew up near here. Like most youth, they always say they escaped to the west, (Missoula) and only went back because of family demands. I found Plentywood to be friendly and accommodating. Had a piece of pie at Carl's Restaurant, and because it was threatening rain, I stopped at the local thrift store to buy some golf shirts to put on over my leather jacket in hopes of staying warm and dry. Wind was brisk from the East, as evidenced by the flag on the court house. I gassed up and hightailed it down Hiway 5 toward Scoby.

Daniels County Court House

Scoby, MT

Check out my new look! Not only functional but a color that can be seen in rain and the cover of darkness. Would have liked to spent more time motoring around this quaint burg, but I wanted to make it home by night fall. (I was dreaming!) The wind was now gale force, and I was about to learn the lesson of lean riding. Next stop was an hour away in Wolf Point.

Richland Co

2010-02-17T17:08:00.000-08:00

Richland Co. Court House

Sidney, Montana

Population in 200 - 9,667 Est. 1914

An hour north of Glendive and a whole lot of scenic farms and ranches, and oil pumps lies Sidney. Last time I was here was in the oil boom of the early 80's when I dropped off a friend who wanted to make big bucks working the oil boom. Never heard from him again. When I knew him he was a friend in the Lord. Someone later told me he found happiness in sex, drugs, and rock and roll. What ever cures the pain. Sidney looked like it had a wonderful face lift. A pocket of wealth in the part of Montana most like to say they were from. As you can see by the photo, clouds were starting to form, and being part of the adventure was to take what may come, I did not want to know what the forecast had in store. I've live in this state long enough to know the signs of weather change, and it wasn't going to be a change for the better. My song for the day was "Hit the road Jack" and Plentywood was a callen'.

McCone & Dawson Co.

2010-02-17T04:37:00.001-08:00

McCone Co. Courthouse -Circle, MT
Population in 2000 1,977 Established 1919

Nippy ride from Jordan. Nursing a great memory of Jordan last night. I have got to get better riding gloves. Used the restroom in the court house. There is a real sense of pride on taking care of this court hose. I think one could eat off the floors it was so clean. My first ever visit to Circle. Farms all look in great shape, roads are good, and there is a Museum that looks to be a refreshing stop for folks who love agriculture and trains. It was window shopping at the museum only as I motored into town before much was open. I will make it a point to visit this museum if I pass this way again.

Had a great breakfast at Kay's Cafe and headed for Glendive.

Dawson Co. Courthouse
Glendive, MT Pop. in 2000 - 9,059 Est. 1865

It's has been 26 years since I last visited Glendive. I was impressed with the big Small city attitude and look of this Yellowstone river town. Looks like oil and ag have been good to Dawson Co. Scoped out a pawn shop looking for gloves, (remember I am the King of Cheap). Did not find gloves, but got a nice stare from the kid behind the counter. From here I turn north and ride towards Sidney, the furthest point NE of Montana I have ever been. Spring was kind and the land full of promise.

Garfield Co.

2010-02-16T17:12:00.001-08:00

Garfield Co. County Courthouse

Jordan, MT Pop. in 2000 - 1,279 Est. 1919

Pulled into Jordan as the sun set. The 70 miles between Circle and Jordan was scenic in the light of the evening sun, and true to the Petroleum Co. Sheriffs officers warning, the deer along the road were plentiful. I found an RV park, paid $8 for a space that included a shower. Pitched my tent and got my bedroll set up. I knew I would have to have a shot and beer to get the road dust off and I walked up town to the Ranch Bar. I try to pick places that have a few trucks outside VS no trucks. As I strolled in, the entire population of the bar stopped talking and stared. I nodded and said," I can lick any woman in the house" The folks seemed to like that, and after the keep said "what'l ya have, it's on the house" I knew I was in for a good time.

I sat at the bar counter, ordered a toaster oven pizza, and struck up a conversation with two brothers who were waiting for a 3rd due in from Michigan. A little while later a man with a CAT hat (as in Caterpillar equipment) joined us to find out a little more about we three strangers. I asked him if he operated a CAT and he said he was part of county road crew, so "yeah, I'm married to a roadgrader." I mentioned the old joke about the only reason people wanted to be elected to County Commissioner where I grew up was to get the road paved to their farm or ranch. "Not in Garfield" he said, "Once you leave Hiway 200, there are no paved roads." Not quite true. There's a little piece of Hiway 245 leading out towards the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge. It gives tourists and out of area hunters a false sense of security that it'll be an easy drive to get into some of the finest hunting and fishing spots in Montana. Once you hit the red rock gravel road portion of 245, you'll be cursing your tire dealer for not selling you at least 6 ply tires, and reason satellite phones exist. Around 8:30 PM a couple of women came in the back door lugging speakers for a karaoke system. By 9:30 the Ranch Bar was hopping with a new group of young cowboys and their gals. I sang a few tunes, and left at 11:30 tuned up and ready for my way too thin sleeping pad. A magic night by Jordan standards.

The old court house had burned down a few years back, and was now housed in the old hospital building. Another Jordan claim to fame was that Ernest Hemingway's brother had practiced medicine for a while in Jordan. I was on the road the next morning by 6 and headed to Circle.

Petroleum Co.

2010-02-16T16:52:00.000-08:00

Petroleum County Court House

Winnett, MT Pop. in 2000 - 493 Est. 1926

Arrived in Winnett about 2 hours behind schedule. I was bummed because I really wanted to bed down in Circle. One thing you have to respect ain Montana is the wildlife. Certain stretches of road and particular times of day invite trouble for a tired and cranky rider. I knew it would be a push to reach Jordan by night fall. but I still had energy, but just to be sure, I took a bathroom break and a Pepsi at one of the two Winnett watering holes.

The Deputy sheriff happened to arrive as I was getting ready to snap the photo. I told him what I was up to, and he said the road ahead would be "infested with deer."and I should "burn daylight". Maybe it was a polite way to say "keep moving away from my town", but he seemed genuinely concerned about me getting to Jordan safe.

As I went in for my Pepsi and bathroom break I walked into a 21st birthday party for the little lady on the left. There about 4 people in the bar, and one of the young bucks there insisted I stay for the party. I bargained by way out with a photo of the ladies and I next to the bike. Pepsi can on the sidewalk. I do not drink alcohol while riding. The young lady's husband showed up as the photo snapped. could have been his best side. I'm pretty sure it got real drunk out that night at the Winnett Bar. Note: They do have a cardtrol gas outlet in Winnett. Its a rustic town. Another note, always buy a round for four people in a bar. Friends for life.

Judith Basin & Fergus Co.

2010-02-15T19:44:00.000-08:00

Judith Basin Co. Court House Stanford, MT

June 4-6-2009
The shake down runs are over, it's time to hit the road for a big loop. I decided to Make the upper Eastern Montana Run in early June to avoid what can be blast furnace weather. I had work to do in Lewistown, and my company was implementing furloughs so I thought a three day run would be a perfect use of a non paid day off. I found a pair of leather riding chaps at a local pawn shop, and my friend Kurt gave me an old visor helmet he had no use for. Left Great Falls at 6Am on a beautiful day. First County Seat would be Judith Basin and the town of Stanford. The soft early morning sun made for a great photo. Visitors to Stanford really should tour the Museum. There's a salt and pepper shaker collection that will astound you!
Fergus Co. Court House
Lewistown, MT

Lewistown, is one of my all time favorite towns in Montana. The Court House is one of
the finest to be found. Croatian stone masons have left magnificent buildings that never cease to amaze all who pass through. The Chamber of Commerce has a plethora of information that will help you with a self guided tour. Big Springs is a must see stop.
This was my all time embarrassing start of all the trips with the Iron Horse. I left town after a day of commercial shoots about 4 PM. I was almost to the County Seat of Petroleum Co. When I noticed the left saddle bag had popped open and all my clothes were gone! I had to back track 60 miles to the city limits of Lewistown. I did not see any of my belongings. I called the bike shop where I had the bike serviced while the other producer and I were busy video taping clients, thinking they may have taken t he saddle bags off and contents out to get at the back wheel. I did not want to scrap the trip for lack of clothes, so I gassed up and hit the road, now two hours behind schedule. Just past the city limits of Lewistown, out of the corner of my eye I caught the bright blue color of my thermal underwear deep in the ditch and hidden by weeds and tall grass. I walked the stretch of hiway ditch picking up my clothes. I must have been quite a sight to the locals going home from work. Nothing like a tough biker guy picking his underwear out of a ditch.

Meagher Co.

2010-02-14T10:37:00.000-08:00

May 24-09

Meagher County Courthouse

White Sulphur Springs

Population: 1,932 Established 1867

After this photo I put on all the warm weather gear I had with me. By the time I hit the top of Kings Hill on Hiway 89 it was snowing, but not sticking to the road. Still my first ride in snow, and I was just a little freaked. Not much traffic so I slowed down to about 35-45mph, and pushed on through to Armington Junction where 89 meets 87. The snow turned to a heavy rain by the time I reached the valley floor. Still fighting visibility with my glasses. Local Good SAMs has set up a free coffee stop so I pulled in for a break. Coffee reminded me how cold I was getting, so with 12 miles to go, I got back on the road and headed for home in Great Falls. The traffic was horrible and clogged with upset campers and their RV's headed back from a weather spoiled outing. When I got home, my clothing was soaked, and I bet I poured at least a cup of water out of my boots. I needed to get serious about buying proper riding gear. But know summer was coming, so maybe no more foul weather riding. Good thing I don't forecast weather for a living.

Broadwater Co.

2010-02-14T10:17:00.000-08:00

Broadwater Co. Courthouse - Townsend, MT

Population in 2000 4,385 Est. 1897

May 24 - 2009 The sun came out strong while I was in the Mint having breakfast. Wet gear now dry, and I'm ready to head North on #12 for Meagher Co. (Pronounced MAR) What a fun stretch of road this is Scenic, twisty, with road signs not to be ignored. If the speed sign says 45. It's 45 MPH. Had a logging truck tailgate me for 5 miles through a section I could not pull over on. Don't want to piss off those guys. Surprised at the amount of Sunday Am traffic on the road. Late for church?

As I crested the hill coming into White Sulphur Springs from the South, I was amazed at the sight of hundreds of US flags flying in the cemetery.

It was an inspiring sight, and as a Vet, I must admit it was also an emotional moment. The men and women of Meagher Co. take serving our country seriously. Storm clouds were gathering, and I was in a hurry to get over the mountain pass of Kings Hill before a snow storm could develop. Kings Hill is one of the highest passes in the state that has daily Hiway Dept. maintenance year around.

Lewis & Clark Co. State Capitol

2010-02-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

Lewis and Clark Co. Courthouse - Helena

May 24, 2009 Population in 2000 - 55,716 Est. 1864

Looked like it might rain so I packed a Columbia Ski jacket and what I thought would be water resistant golf pants for a three county run on a Sunday. Headed South on I-15, and just as I rounded the corner by Wolf creek, It started to rain. One of the unique things about Montana is the weather can make dramatic changes in just a few minutes. I wear glasses, and taking them off and on along with the helmet is a hassle. For this leg of the trip I kept both on for the photo. I decided to complete the loop when the sun started peaking out from behind the clouds to the East. Helena can be slightly confusing for new travelers heading to Townsend by way of the I-5 Exit at Cedar Street. It's easy to loose your bearings if exploring the down town. The Townsend highway is also the fastest way to get to Bozeman, so while it is well marked, it has also sent many a rider to Butte, which is beautiful ride, but will add time to your trip to Bozeman, or once you figure out you have to turn around to make the connecting Hiway 287 to get to Townsend, Broadwater Co. Seat . By the time I reached East Helena, the sun was out and drying my boots and pants. I had breakfast in Townsend at the terrific Mint Cafe that seems only to cater to the locals. My kind of place. I always ask the local where to have breakfast, and have never been disappointed.

Cascade Co. Home base

2010-02-13T12:11:00.001-08:00

From Choteau, rode 89 South to Great Falls. Typical of all my rides, I managed to find rain just before getting home. As you can see by my apparel, I was not well equipped to deal with foul weather riding. Lesson #4. You really don't know what you need until you need it. I started pawn shopping for leather and other creature comforts for riding.

One thing I did not mention early on was I not only wanted to see where the adventure would take me, but as cheaply as possible. Thus, pawn shops and thrift stores became a routine with every town I would pass through.

Cascade County Courthouse

Great Falls. Pop. in 2000- 80,357 Established 1887

Point of origin for all trips.

Toole - Glacier- Teton Counties

2010-02-12T21:03:00.001-08:00

May 17th Toole County Courthouse May 17th - Glacier Co. Court House- Cut Bank
Shelby Population in 2000 5,267 Est. 1914 Population in 2000 - 13,247 Est. 1919

May 17th, Teton Co. Courthouse Pop. 6,445 Est. 1893
Choteau
After Shelby, I rode Hiway two to Cut Bank, then a delightful hiway 359 to Valier, then 44 East to 89 South and in to Choteau. Must stop biker place, The Wildlife Sanctuary in
Bynum. Took 89 all the way to Great Falls. Home by 6PM.

Pondera Co.

2010-02-12T19:49:00.000-08:00

One of the first things I learned about my 2005 Yamaha 1100 V-Star, is that the gas tank looks bigger than it is. I was shocked to run out of gas bringing it home from Lewistown. Lewistown is about 110 miles from Great Falls traveling State Hiway 87. It was a windy day on the 10 of May, and the bike started sputtering, then quit about three miles West of Armington. I stoped along side a wide spot on the road, one of the few you'll find on this tight stretch of road, and saw the gas turncock had a reserve mark. I switched the gas valve over to reserve, fired it up and nursed it into the town of Belt. My first lesson, know thy gas range. I know what you veteran riders are thinking. "Duh." Yep. I admit it. Cause you know, it "wasn't my first ride." But I also have to admit, from the get go, I knew this whole bike thing was going to be an adventure. It's the journey not the destination kind of thing. Because I only rode the Honda around town, a tank of gas lasted a month. I figured with an average speed of 70 and a 40 mph wind, it simply sucked a lot of gas. Lesson #2. Buy gas every 85 miles. After getting home, I detailed the bike and got to know it better. Lesson #3. Google is you friend.
The first step of the all 56 county tour was a 5 county run. I headed for Toole Co. County Seat, Shelby. My mother lived in Shelby making it a good reason to make the first run. Leaving Great falls, I made my first stop the Pondera County Seat, Conrad. Earlier in the Month I interviewed a Conrad gentleman for the community affairs program I hosted on KRTV. He was on the show to talk about a fund raiser for a Deputy Sheriff who was strapped with hefty medical expenses from a battle with cancer. I parked in front of the Pondera Co. Court House, set up my tripod and camera, framed the bike in the viewfinder and hit the timer, ran back to the bike for a pose. Soon after taking the photo and stowing the gear back into the saddle bags, a big booming voice asked " Whats going on?" I turned around to face a uniformed Sheriffs Deputy. I told him that this the first leg of a journey, that would take me to all the county seats in Montana. We got to talking about a poker ride he was on last week end, and asked if it was the fund raiser for the Deputy Dawg. "Sure was." he said. " Nicest thing my friends ever did for me"

Pondera County Courthouse, Conrad, MT

Population in 2000 6,424 Established 1919
It was the first of many small world moments on this adventure. He thanked me for the promotion of the event, then remided me I was in a no parking area.

The Alone Rider

2010-02-09T16:20:00.000-08:00

I had been with out a motorcycle for quite a few years. My first ride was a 1962 Cushman scooter. I sold my horse to buy it. Broke my mothers heart, as she wanted me to be western horse rider like she was in her bronk busten days. Let me tell you, learning to ride a scooter in the part of Montana I grew up in was quite a feat. Gravel roads, and rutty trails are not kind to small wheeled centrificual clutch scooters. But what a thrill to zoom 35 miles an hour down a country road knowing if this iron horse threw you, there would be hell to pay for weeks.

Any who, long story short, in 1993 while living in Kalispell, I borrowed a friends 1981 honda CB 750 to take my wife on a ride over Going to the Sun Highway in Glacier National Park. She was thrilled and said we should buy a bike and do the Glacier ride more often. I told my buddy about it, and he promptly offered to sell it to me. I had always wanted to take a long distance motorcyle ride, and the 750 with all its 16,000 babied miles, was not one to do it in comfort and style. I discussed buying a bigger bike with my wife and she agreed it would be best to get a solid road bike for my foolish desires. I bumped in to what is now my new iron horse in Lewistown, MT. It was used, not abused, and the dealer had been carrying the paper on it for far too long, and sold it to me at a very attractive price.

And this friend, is where the story begins.

After much thought about where I would go to acomplish my goal of a long distance ride, my love for Montana made it clear that of all the places to ride the great open spaces, Montana should be the starting point. I asked around to some bikers I knew, to see if they knew of anyone that has ever motorcyled to all 56 County Seats of Montana. Zippo was the research. I knew I wanted to be the first. To document the ride, I would take a photo of the bike and I in front of each County Courthouse. Little did I know at the time of my decision, I would be a Montana love struck biker by journys end. Now, if I can figure out how to post photo's on this site I will begin the tale of a road well traveled, next time on My Motorcycle Summer in Montana.