Stillwater Co.

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

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

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.

NM Madison Co. Courthouse - Virginia City, MT

Established 1864 - Population 6,851

Steam engines and I

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

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

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.