Glendive, Montana to Medora, North Dakota - August 10, 2021

Last Stretch of Montana

I woke at the Yellowstone River Inn and walked down to their restaurant for a meal. I had a large breakfast burrito and too many cups of coffee.

I cycled the last portion of Montana, through scrubland and wheat fields. Like every checkpoint in life, it was a little bitter sweet.

I was interested in cycling in North Dakota, a state that I’d never set foot in previously.

Upon entering, I stopped to take a quick picture of the border sign (colorful). I then pedaled into Beach and spotted a rest area.

Making it Official

North Dakota does not disappoint in regards to rest stops. I spent at least an hour sipping a warm Coke (I had to plug in the machine) and writing. The building offered free WiFi. On this trip, my eyes have been opened to the wonders of rest stops. I will be forever grateful to the people who design, built and maintain these oases of the road.

Beach Rest Stop (Interior)

Beach Rest Stop (Exterior Beauty)

I was off and on Highway 94 throughout the day. Upon entering the North Dakota Badlands, I took the suggested Old Highway 10 Road.

It was a dream! There were almost zero vehicles and I was witness to miles of red-tipped bluffs that lit when the sun peeked it’s head out from behind a cloud. My head was on a swivel, captured in the moment.

Clean Paint on Skyline

North Dakota Badlands (Old Highway 10)

I had reserved a tent site at Medora Campground ($30). There was a strong wind when I arrived, causing me to push stakes deep. To my surprise, the soil was soft enough.

Medora Campground

I’m beginning the final leg of this summer’s ride. My plan is to ride through the state to Fargo, a town on the border of Minnesota.