Browning, Montana to Cut Bank, Montana - August 1, 2021

Graduation Shout-Out - Browning

Last night, in my half-sleep, I thought that I heard rain. I wish it were true.

I woke to find that a reservation dog had marked my tent. I busied myself with my water bottle spray cap, trying to wash the scent away. I had to use a little bar soap; hopefully, it won’t ruin the water protection of the fly.

Reservation dogs run wild in Browning. I’m not certain that all have owners. Luckily, I wasn’t accosted by the canine campground keepers as I pedaled out to the highway.

Before reaching the grocery store, a different dog bolted at me on my right, snarling as it came on. This feint was only a momentary cause for concern. It disappeared quickly behind me.

After grabbing groceries and a Subway sandwich, I left the town of Browning. My interactions with the resident dogs could have been better, and, if I ever return, I’m convinced that I’ll be treated with courtesy.

I hit the road to Cut Bank later than I had hoped. The trip turned out to be extremely trying due to a headwind and temperatures above 95 degrees. I listened to podcasts and ground out the thirty-five miles. Honestly, I couldn’t go any further. There’s a remarkable difference between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. I was a wilting plant sitting on a bicycle seat. The experience was somewhat surreal.

Montana Wheat Growers

The Hot Grind

Cut Bank in the Distance (Finally!)

Due to it being Sunday, the Cut Bank Library was closed. I contacted the Sunset RV Park ($25); they had tent camping spots and showers. Finally, a break.

Sunset RV Layout (I took T2)

I slipped over to Albertsons for a few groceries, then made my way to the campground. I was able to slip inside the laundry room area to get out of the sun and gather my thoughts. I did a little blogging, then set up my tent and took a shower. The office manager didn’t come to the office until about 7:30 PM due to his not wanting to deal with the heat - understandable.

Later, after I was settled in my tent, I talked to Beth and, after, drifted off to a sound, canine-free sleep.