Jagged Mountains

I am now in the Grand Tetons.  They are a stunning range of jagged mountains which are a national park.  Yesterday we rode over Togwatee Pass (over 9000 ft) and then after some epic downhill free wheeling, were confronted with the beautiful snow capped mountains!  Below the range are lakes, rivers and an abundance of wildlife - we have seen bison already.

The three of us are having a day off in Jackson - next to the famous ski resort of Jackson Hole - before cycling north into Yellowstone (it's not a bad life!).  Jackson is horribly touristy, and quite smart (therefore expensive), but it is a cool place and very international, so after some of the backwater towns we have been in previously, it is great for kicking back.  Also a good place to freshen up and replenish our supplies.

As I have mentioned, Wyoming is impressive, but it was difficult to ride through with almost a constant headwind.  I have often struggled with headwinds, and find myself getting very angry, but one must remember that it is part and parcel of cycle touring, and I must just remember where I am.  Anything that is worthwhile is difficult!

What is scary is how quickly this trip is going.  Days are merging into one another, and sometimes I struggle to remember where we stayed the night before.  It is just turning into one epic memory, with all the highlights jumping out.  It is great to wake up and all I have to worry about is cycling, how I will get food and water and where I will sleep.  There is something very pure about that and it is very healthy for the soul.  There are many times when I miss things about my life back home, and wish the trip was soon over, but I know that as soon as I am home, I will miss the trip, so I must keep that in mind.  I have the bug though, and I am already thinking of the next cycle trips I would like to take (I hope that future employers are not reading this!).  If anyone is reading this and thinking of taking a trip, do, as you will not regret it.  Also, do it on bicycle!  You really feel the environment you are going through, as you are so vulnerable to everything.

Anyway, Yellowstone tomorrow, then we will be in Montana in three days.  I cannot wait for Montana.  If you have ever seen movies like A River Runs Through It or Legends of the Fall, then that is how I picture that state - hopefully it will not disappoint!