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I slunk out of the
camping site and up to the junction where I found a tap at the gas
station which was still yet to open, and filled my frame bag bladder. Barely
10 seconds after getting back on route I turned to see Peter, then Tyler,
cruising back up to me. The
timing was comical. We'd
all gone effectively separate ways the previous evening yet here we were back
in sync first thing in the morning. First
pit stop was a small trailside cafe adjacent a classic vista of a ranch
packed with horses in front of a mountainous backdrop. Like
a magnetic attraction, the sight of bikes parked outside an establishment
triggered us to check it out too. Bikes
already out front belonged to Alex and Per whom we found inside demolishing
breakfast. Some
coffee later, Alex, Per, Tyler and I rolled out just as cowboys were moving a
mob of horses from one paddock to another via the main road. Best
not to mess with a galloping herd!
The main obstacle
for the day was Union Pass, which we were all a little nervous about given that
some northbound riders a few weeks prior had taken 9 hours to get over it, such
was the extent of the snow. As
we climbed higher more unexpected pit stops followed in quick succession;
Turpin Meadows Lodge, then Togwotee lodge. Fully
refreshed we were ready for battle with Union.
Whilst there were
some protracted snow-locked segments with assorted bogs on the fringes, these
passed quicker than expected, and the views all round were absolutely stunning
as we skirted round the underside of the Yellowstone massif. The
protracted descent down the other side was also a bit of a slop fest, but we all
successfully emerged at the junction with a more major trail, and took a break
to de-gunge frames and oil chains. We
set off again hoping to make Pinedale by day's end. Pinedale
was significant as it effectively marks the end of the possibility of being
mauled by a Grizzly, as well as marking the start of the Great Basin which
extends 400 km due south.
We split up somewhat
on the descent. Alex
and Per were too quick for Peter and I, and Tyler seemed content to travel at a
more relaxed pace again. Peter
and I enjoyed a rare tailwind, coupled with mostly sealed road and an amazing
sunset, to roll into Pinedale late with most things shut, but found Alex and
Per already tucking into food at one of the few places that was open. Peter
and I opted for the Hotel next door, more than happy to get our own rooms - I
was craving my own space, and Peter wanted to avoid my snoring, so it was all
good. Another
shower at last, and wifi to boot. I
was so relieved. I
don't think I got to sleep till 1
am.
(224 km, 2537 m)
We leave the Tetons behind
Tyler
Per
Alex
The push over Union Pass
Yellowstone massif in the distance
Alex (above) and Per (below)
Peter (above) and Tyler (below)
(Last 3 photos from Peter Kraft)
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