Mosby, Montana to Jordan, Montana - August 7, 2021

Plains Geology

I woke at my usual time. The tent was a little flattened by the wind over the course of the night. I had anchored the stakes in loose gravel and placed large stones over them; they didn’t hold up. Regardless, I slept well.

After packing up, I cycled 55 miles through heat (90+) and scrubland to the town of Jordan.

Scrubland

I’m becoming more tolerant to these conditions, which I think must be a positive shift in mentality. These long tours hold with my philosophy that chosen, periodic discomfort has a positive impact on people.

For me, the thought of pedaling over the Rockies and through the Plains would help answer questions. How would I adapt? What physical and, more important, mental discomfort would I have to deal with along the way? What new ideas would pop up?

A rigorous bicycle tour can’t help but promote a feeling of gratitude for what a person has, the importance of loved ones and the greater community and the interconnectedness of all life. Every tour I have taken confirms this.

I’m very fortunate to be able to have this experience. That said, home will have an even greater depth of meaning for me.

On the outskirts of Jordan, I pulled my brake levers at The Summit Corral. A couple, who had also purchased the Garfield Motel in town, had recently renovated the restaurant. After speaking with the owner, I could tell that he was proud. He was being rewarded by steady customers at both the restaurant and motel.

Summit Corral with Plant

Garfield

Garfield Decor

The motel was next on their list to fix up. I always find it heartening that individuals pour their time on the planet into making spaces better for others. This, of course, benefits them too.

I ended up staying the night at the Garfield Motel in town. The RV parks either didn’t have showers or neglected to answer the phone, and the city park had water and a bathroom, but taking a shower would have been a bit tricky. The $75 was well spent as the deal included breakfast at the Corral.

I was able to have a FaceTime call with with Beth, a first for this trip. The connection was a touch spotty, and it dropped after awhile; I wasn’t able to get back on. Still, it was a fine way to end the evening.