yep, it sure seems like fall is here. dark until nearly 7am, cooler days, some moisture is back. it was a short summer, but it is montana. i am sure we will have some hot weather still this year, but it is best to accept the autumn season and all it has to offer.
if you have not already begun, and have a garden in place, start watching for frost. i always look for night time lows below 38 before i worry. at that point, cover the fragile plants, like tomatoes, the squash family, basil. if you miss it, but wake up early, you can water the garden just before the sun comes up to wash the frost off. this fends off the killing of the plant.
is it too early to start thinking about winter? some parts of the country are already looking toward a mild winter. fortunately, for what i know, these are areas that desire just that. like urban and city dwellings. personally, i am hoping for a normal winter, or even some la nina to bring on the goods. since we might be looking at snow up high (and is some places already have), it is never too early to think winter.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
darker
as great as the weather has been, summer is indeed winding down. i don't really even like to think about it, but the other night, as i read out on the deck until i had to use artificial light. i came in and started to get ready for bed, looked at the clock and it was barely 9:30! and it was dark. oh, the longest of the summer days are once again behind us as we begin to look forward to the fall colors and brisk mornings.
the garden, though filled with weeds, continues to produce greatly. at this time, there really is no need to weed, except for athsetics (sp?). clean up of the entire mess is just around the corner with all the other pre-winter chores, so why hasten to them. i am trying to squeeze as much summer out of summer as possible.
and this weekend looks more like a late september weekend of weather than late august. cool, cloudy and some wet. i am hoping it is just saving up for a fabulous labor day stretch of perfect weather. warm, clear and bright night lights sparkling.
our weather here remains a source of humor, if you look at it correctly. on sunday we went to the fair and watched the ponies. with only a rain jacket, and foolishly wearing shorts, i found myself not just cool, but cold. only raggie had the foresite to bring a cap. i could have used pants, sweater and hat. then it heats up thru thursday, maybe the hottest day of summer, and then back into the 60's for the weekend. what else can one do but laugh and shake our heads and remark "montana weather!"
still, there are endless arenas of fun at this time. all the trails are clear, all the water warm, the fish are rising, the flowers are still blooming (a true blessing of a cool, moderately moist summer)and hopefully we are all in mid summer shape for whatever strokes our hearts fancies the most.
and this just in, bow hunting season starts in just over a week, for those that live the better part of the year waiting for just that. oh, and football season begins too. it must be fall on the horizon.
the garden, though filled with weeds, continues to produce greatly. at this time, there really is no need to weed, except for athsetics (sp?). clean up of the entire mess is just around the corner with all the other pre-winter chores, so why hasten to them. i am trying to squeeze as much summer out of summer as possible.
and this weekend looks more like a late september weekend of weather than late august. cool, cloudy and some wet. i am hoping it is just saving up for a fabulous labor day stretch of perfect weather. warm, clear and bright night lights sparkling.
our weather here remains a source of humor, if you look at it correctly. on sunday we went to the fair and watched the ponies. with only a rain jacket, and foolishly wearing shorts, i found myself not just cool, but cold. only raggie had the foresite to bring a cap. i could have used pants, sweater and hat. then it heats up thru thursday, maybe the hottest day of summer, and then back into the 60's for the weekend. what else can one do but laugh and shake our heads and remark "montana weather!"
still, there are endless arenas of fun at this time. all the trails are clear, all the water warm, the fish are rising, the flowers are still blooming (a true blessing of a cool, moderately moist summer)and hopefully we are all in mid summer shape for whatever strokes our hearts fancies the most.
and this just in, bow hunting season starts in just over a week, for those that live the better part of the year waiting for just that. oh, and football season begins too. it must be fall on the horizon.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
good week
FINALLY!
a week that truly represents summer. two good rides, two days on the blackfoot with the legendary (wishes) clay, fishing for the mightly 24"!
rode from the bottom of haskill basin to the top of the Big. took a while, but felt great. good to get some serious vertical. not sure though if i am truly ready to tackle the toughest of rides, strawberry lake to columbia mtn. that is an endeavor i conquered 17 years ago, thought i would never want to do again, and now i am challenged, but unsure if i want to suffer that much.
so i went to climb standard peak instead. although not quite an epic, it is an ordeal. too many dirt road miles, but we were able to put them together in a way as to not see one car. why, because we travelled on roads closed to cars, and indeed had to cross one serious slump that even on foot was difficult.
of course, the trail needs lots of work, especially on the way down off the back side, but we found our way thru, with maps and old memories (i was the only one to have done it in the past, andthat was 10 years ago, at least). but it came together, and the beers were cold and sweet, if not of the highest quality. (according to some standard's being set by an aging ski bum population no longer interested in quantity, but instead, in quality. not sure if i agree, but someone in this house i believe does)
then the next day, down to the blackfoot and a night in the comfortable though unfinished digs in ovando. did not get to see the sunset off the porch, one of my favorite activities, as the fish were jumping, after a day when they did not. though we all love the sunshine, it is not always the best for sticking a fly on the water. but we did not get skunked, we did not get too stuck in the shallow waters, we did not drown, we did have a ton of fun, and of course, we drank a few beers, of both quality and quantity.
with plenty of time left in august, the best month of september and as much of october as we are lucky to get before the gray cold sets in, the rest of this season should be a fun one. any epics out there? let me know. thanks.
a week that truly represents summer. two good rides, two days on the blackfoot with the legendary (wishes) clay, fishing for the mightly 24"!
rode from the bottom of haskill basin to the top of the Big. took a while, but felt great. good to get some serious vertical. not sure though if i am truly ready to tackle the toughest of rides, strawberry lake to columbia mtn. that is an endeavor i conquered 17 years ago, thought i would never want to do again, and now i am challenged, but unsure if i want to suffer that much.
so i went to climb standard peak instead. although not quite an epic, it is an ordeal. too many dirt road miles, but we were able to put them together in a way as to not see one car. why, because we travelled on roads closed to cars, and indeed had to cross one serious slump that even on foot was difficult.
of course, the trail needs lots of work, especially on the way down off the back side, but we found our way thru, with maps and old memories (i was the only one to have done it in the past, andthat was 10 years ago, at least). but it came together, and the beers were cold and sweet, if not of the highest quality. (according to some standard's being set by an aging ski bum population no longer interested in quantity, but instead, in quality. not sure if i agree, but someone in this house i believe does)
then the next day, down to the blackfoot and a night in the comfortable though unfinished digs in ovando. did not get to see the sunset off the porch, one of my favorite activities, as the fish were jumping, after a day when they did not. though we all love the sunshine, it is not always the best for sticking a fly on the water. but we did not get skunked, we did not get too stuck in the shallow waters, we did not drown, we did have a ton of fun, and of course, we drank a few beers, of both quality and quantity.
with plenty of time left in august, the best month of september and as much of october as we are lucky to get before the gray cold sets in, the rest of this season should be a fun one. any epics out there? let me know. thanks.
Monday, August 9, 2010
hailstorm
anyone get caught out in that huge storm on friday? i was lucky and was in transit from seeley lake where i spend two days at the Big Larch campground swimming and boating, and missed the storm entirely. but it sounds like it was a doozy. and a few people got their gardens messed up, but mine seemed to fair just fine. and this has been a great summer for the garden. after a slow start in april, may and june, things have been great with plenty of water and sun.
going back to seeley lake, that campground is pretty much on the beach and very clean and comfortable. a great spot for kids, as there were tons in this group i joined. it was even pretty dog friendly, as far as usfs campgrounds go. they were allowed off leash in your own site and within voice command, and at the beach they had to stay away from the main swimming area, but otherwise were fine. of course there were the typical grouchy people who have never let their dogs or their own minds off a leash, and if they had another dog come within 10 feet were nervous nelly's, but i tried to not get too sarcastic, and keep my pets away. staying there really made me wonder about owning my own place on the water somewhere. anyone know of a decent lake with quasi affordable property. i mean, something less than $100k/acre or $300k for a small cabin? okay, i didn't think so, but if you ever see anything, let me know.
not much else to report, just life in august, when the temps are staying in the low 80's is about as good as it can be.
going back to seeley lake, that campground is pretty much on the beach and very clean and comfortable. a great spot for kids, as there were tons in this group i joined. it was even pretty dog friendly, as far as usfs campgrounds go. they were allowed off leash in your own site and within voice command, and at the beach they had to stay away from the main swimming area, but otherwise were fine. of course there were the typical grouchy people who have never let their dogs or their own minds off a leash, and if they had another dog come within 10 feet were nervous nelly's, but i tried to not get too sarcastic, and keep my pets away. staying there really made me wonder about owning my own place on the water somewhere. anyone know of a decent lake with quasi affordable property. i mean, something less than $100k/acre or $300k for a small cabin? okay, i didn't think so, but if you ever see anything, let me know.
not much else to report, just life in august, when the temps are staying in the low 80's is about as good as it can be.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
great wx
wx. shorthand for weather.
and it has been great. unless you are someone who actually loves the super hot. right now it is midday, slight breeze, high 70's. the waters are all warm enough to swim in, the trails are all dry but not dusty, the produce is now more local or regional and not californian. in short, summer is in full swing, and the living is easy. (except of course for work, which is what we all do too much of in the summer, because we can).
keeping this one brief, as i have an unexpected day off and need to go enjoy this nearly perfect weather. hope you are all having tonsoffun.
and it has been great. unless you are someone who actually loves the super hot. right now it is midday, slight breeze, high 70's. the waters are all warm enough to swim in, the trails are all dry but not dusty, the produce is now more local or regional and not californian. in short, summer is in full swing, and the living is easy. (except of course for work, which is what we all do too much of in the summer, because we can).
keeping this one brief, as i have an unexpected day off and need to go enjoy this nearly perfect weather. hope you are all having tonsoffun.
Friday, July 30, 2010
i'm back
well, it has been a month, so most of you are probably not even looking. but i am going to get back on it, as things are starting to happen in life. well, you know, summer is in full swing, so there is more to talk about.
i did my first race in the Big Mountain summer series last night. first race up there ever. and first bike race of any kind in over 20 years. and i got my butt kicked. i tried not to go out too hard, but got caught between those i wanted to pass and those i did not want to pass me, on the initial climb right out of the box. and immediately i got into severe lung burn, that did not go away completely until this am. i guess i am not in race shape. but i finished in under an hour, (two laps) and likely was first (and only) in my over 50 age group, but that is no longer a group. it is only "veterans" of over 40. i will never even make it into the top three in this group. but it was fun and i hope to continue, perhaps a it smarter next time. and better warmed up.
MA and i went to the Calgary Folk Music Festival last weekend. a lot of driving for 2 1/2 days, but fun and worth it. a really well run affair, with lots of good food, beer and music. 7 different tents with all kinds of music. NOT just folk. raggae, ska, rock, roots, blues, gospel (don't knock gospel, it can be the best music of any show), etc. the worst for us though, was that roberta flack was the final act, sunday night at 9pm and we had to leave the same night at 6. or not go to work on monday, which was not an option.. two really cool things at this fest. first, they were very lax on what you could bring in. we brought in some premade cocktails, and easily got some ice here and there to cool them off. you can bring in your own food, cooler, sodas, etc. you are not supposed to have alcohol outside of the beer garden, but if you kept it mellow. (come on, it was a folk festival. how roudy are a middle age couple going to get anyway?) Two, they were recycling or composting almost everything. cutlery, glasses and paper were all compostible, plates were real. you paid a $2 deposit and got it back with the return. but the one thing i thought was weird. they were not recycling plastics. something about the garbage and recycling contract did not include plastics. come on! even here in the anti-environment capital of Flathead county, we can recycle plastic 1&2. which also broght to me the question. which is better.
Recycling or
Composting
so i amazingly have still not been out fishing, boating or on any epic bike rides. august and september are my months to change all that. the time has come and summer is short.
i did my first race in the Big Mountain summer series last night. first race up there ever. and first bike race of any kind in over 20 years. and i got my butt kicked. i tried not to go out too hard, but got caught between those i wanted to pass and those i did not want to pass me, on the initial climb right out of the box. and immediately i got into severe lung burn, that did not go away completely until this am. i guess i am not in race shape. but i finished in under an hour, (two laps) and likely was first (and only) in my over 50 age group, but that is no longer a group. it is only "veterans" of over 40. i will never even make it into the top three in this group. but it was fun and i hope to continue, perhaps a it smarter next time. and better warmed up.
MA and i went to the Calgary Folk Music Festival last weekend. a lot of driving for 2 1/2 days, but fun and worth it. a really well run affair, with lots of good food, beer and music. 7 different tents with all kinds of music. NOT just folk. raggae, ska, rock, roots, blues, gospel (don't knock gospel, it can be the best music of any show), etc. the worst for us though, was that roberta flack was the final act, sunday night at 9pm and we had to leave the same night at 6. or not go to work on monday, which was not an option.. two really cool things at this fest. first, they were very lax on what you could bring in. we brought in some premade cocktails, and easily got some ice here and there to cool them off. you can bring in your own food, cooler, sodas, etc. you are not supposed to have alcohol outside of the beer garden, but if you kept it mellow. (come on, it was a folk festival. how roudy are a middle age couple going to get anyway?) Two, they were recycling or composting almost everything. cutlery, glasses and paper were all compostible, plates were real. you paid a $2 deposit and got it back with the return. but the one thing i thought was weird. they were not recycling plastics. something about the garbage and recycling contract did not include plastics. come on! even here in the anti-environment capital of Flathead county, we can recycle plastic 1&2. which also broght to me the question. which is better.
Recycling or
Composting
so i amazingly have still not been out fishing, boating or on any epic bike rides. august and september are my months to change all that. the time has come and summer is short.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
more on swan 100
although the swancrest is not going to be run as an official race, it is still going on as a non-organized event, with the plan of making it official next year, or soon. so my idea of lots of people showing up is to be ignored for the time being. maybe we can do something later in the summer to raise money and help this event become official. for now, let's hope that a good crowd of the serious ultra-marathon folks still show up to run, and hope they have great weather.
well, after a very wet 3-4 weeks, and spring in general, summer has come in with abondon. warm and sunny, although the next few days look a bit cooler. and remember, once we get thru july 4th, it is all guaranteed great weather. okay, maybe not, but usually july and august get pretty hot and dry. should be another great summer.
well, after a very wet 3-4 weeks, and spring in general, summer has come in with abondon. warm and sunny, although the next few days look a bit cooler. and remember, once we get thru july 4th, it is all guaranteed great weather. okay, maybe not, but usually july and august get pretty hot and dry. should be another great summer.
Monday, June 28, 2010
sunny and warm
now this is some good weather. even as it cools off later this week, it is still going to be great. even if we have a few thunderstorms. nothing wrong with that, and right now lightening is not too much of a threat.
so mountain biking continues to be great, and the rivers are slowing down, for more boating and fishing should be getting better all the time. i have not been on any great adventures of yet, but they are not too far away. althought the word is that there is still lots of snow up around 7000' and less on northern aspects. so if you were really into it, i am sure there is some skiing to be had, beyond just the Going to the Sun Road and Logan Pass.
the TRail Runs Thru It, now officially the Whitefish Trail, is set to officially open on July 17, with events in town and on the trail that day. of course, it is open for daily use right now, but there are not signs up as yet. sounds like some last loops closer to the main trailhead at Lion Mtn. Loop are just about done, and super fun.
unfortunately, if you have not read a paper in weeks and had not heard, brad lamson has officially decided NOT to run his 100 mile Swan Crest race as an official race. but it is still going on as a non-sanctioned, no charge event. so anyone feeling it should continue training. but if 100 miles seems too much, i am trying to get some folks to go down and do lesser rides or runs and maybe throw some support to brad and Montana Conservation Corps, which is set to reap any proceeds. Unfortunately Keith Hammer (aka: ASSHOLE with nothing better to do) has forced the issue to where it was likely to cost race organizers and the USFS money in EA's and litigation. so i am trying to set up some support so that maybe this can become an event on the Swan. please post some comments and thoughts about this entire soap opera.
okay, summer is short. time to get outside.
so mountain biking continues to be great, and the rivers are slowing down, for more boating and fishing should be getting better all the time. i have not been on any great adventures of yet, but they are not too far away. althought the word is that there is still lots of snow up around 7000' and less on northern aspects. so if you were really into it, i am sure there is some skiing to be had, beyond just the Going to the Sun Road and Logan Pass.
the TRail Runs Thru It, now officially the Whitefish Trail, is set to officially open on July 17, with events in town and on the trail that day. of course, it is open for daily use right now, but there are not signs up as yet. sounds like some last loops closer to the main trailhead at Lion Mtn. Loop are just about done, and super fun.
unfortunately, if you have not read a paper in weeks and had not heard, brad lamson has officially decided NOT to run his 100 mile Swan Crest race as an official race. but it is still going on as a non-sanctioned, no charge event. so anyone feeling it should continue training. but if 100 miles seems too much, i am trying to get some folks to go down and do lesser rides or runs and maybe throw some support to brad and Montana Conservation Corps, which is set to reap any proceeds. Unfortunately Keith Hammer (aka: ASSHOLE with nothing better to do) has forced the issue to where it was likely to cost race organizers and the USFS money in EA's and litigation. so i am trying to set up some support so that maybe this can become an event on the Swan. please post some comments and thoughts about this entire soap opera.
okay, summer is short. time to get outside.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
more rain
went to seattle for the weekend. sounds like there was less rain there than here. since it happened to be the weekend before the solstice, and we were able to catch the 27th annual Fremont Solstice Parade. somewhere along the way, this festive parade was joined in by a group of byclists who i believe did so unofficially. they are now the higlight of the parade, as they ride loop after loop, NAKED! before the official start. in fact, they have brought in a naked mentallity to the entire affair, that sounds like it was for a while quite wild and crazy. now it is just a fun parade with a bit of debauchery, but mostly mild.
now we are back, and it sounds like it rained all weekend. yesterday was huge. and as wet as it has been, i have been informed by a fire and forestry expert, that in three or so short weeks of dry and hot, we will be back into fire territory. our soils are just so porous and weather so dry and non-humid, things change quickly. but at least for now i am assured our chances of a crown fire (the worst) are zero.
so, what is going on out there. what rivers are still providing good fishing, boating or viewing? of course, trail riding is okay if you don't mind getting wet and muddy. i am sure there is some good skiing, again, if you don't mind being wet, and likely cold.
i went to the DNRC's tour of the spencer trails system and advisory to upcoming logging. they are trying hard to sound positive towards recreation, and i believe them. i have been in several conversations towards making some of the trails "official". i am hoping for this to happen as early as this fall. at worst, it seems the state will allow heavy flagging of trails, so loggers can more easily avoid trails with their skidders and slash. i will try to keep this progress posted.
with all this water, i just have not been out doing much, so don't have much to report. so, as usual, hope others will join in with stories and input.
now we are back, and it sounds like it rained all weekend. yesterday was huge. and as wet as it has been, i have been informed by a fire and forestry expert, that in three or so short weeks of dry and hot, we will be back into fire territory. our soils are just so porous and weather so dry and non-humid, things change quickly. but at least for now i am assured our chances of a crown fire (the worst) are zero.
so, what is going on out there. what rivers are still providing good fishing, boating or viewing? of course, trail riding is okay if you don't mind getting wet and muddy. i am sure there is some good skiing, again, if you don't mind being wet, and likely cold.
i went to the DNRC's tour of the spencer trails system and advisory to upcoming logging. they are trying hard to sound positive towards recreation, and i believe them. i have been in several conversations towards making some of the trails "official". i am hoping for this to happen as early as this fall. at worst, it seems the state will allow heavy flagging of trails, so loggers can more easily avoid trails with their skidders and slash. i will try to keep this progress posted.
with all this water, i just have not been out doing much, so don't have much to report. so, as usual, hope others will join in with stories and input.
Monday, June 14, 2010
great weekend
well, the weather certainly came thru, and so everyone should have been busy. we certainly were over here in millerland. lots of biking, beer and relaxing. some time in the garden and yard. the days are about as long as they are going to get, so the time is now to be outdoors for more time than less.
bikefish week went well, but inclement weather took away from participants in our many guided rides. NO one showed up friday night, so pete and i just went out to pig farms and rode until dark. we did have a group of 11 yesterday out at pig farms, and showed some new folks some good times. it seems to me that that area gets more and more use. we had a few young adults, and a couple of young kids. the kids did well, but you really have to cater to their abilities.
it always seems funny to me to, to see the bikes people ride. not everyone has a tricked out, full suspension, disk brake machine. and it shows in their riding. but youth prevails, and they are able to counter bad bikes with energy.
the bike races went well this weekend. saturday's criterium had a big turnout of spectators and participants. and the kids race was huge. possibly one hundred 8 and unders rode one lap of the crit. one ringer, who was hundreds of yards in front of the rest. but they all had fun, and it was great to watch. hope for even more activities and attendance next year.
anyone watching the World Cup? it has been fantastic. US got a bit lucky to tie england, but we'll take it. if we continue to play as well, the second round should happen. then, who knows.
bikefish week went well, but inclement weather took away from participants in our many guided rides. NO one showed up friday night, so pete and i just went out to pig farms and rode until dark. we did have a group of 11 yesterday out at pig farms, and showed some new folks some good times. it seems to me that that area gets more and more use. we had a few young adults, and a couple of young kids. the kids did well, but you really have to cater to their abilities.
it always seems funny to me to, to see the bikes people ride. not everyone has a tricked out, full suspension, disk brake machine. and it shows in their riding. but youth prevails, and they are able to counter bad bikes with energy.
the bike races went well this weekend. saturday's criterium had a big turnout of spectators and participants. and the kids race was huge. possibly one hundred 8 and unders rode one lap of the crit. one ringer, who was hundreds of yards in front of the rest. but they all had fun, and it was great to watch. hope for even more activities and attendance next year.
anyone watching the World Cup? it has been fantastic. US got a bit lucky to tie england, but we'll take it. if we continue to play as well, the second round should happen. then, who knows.
Friday, June 11, 2010
rainy!
Man, has it been wet. but this weekend looks great, so time to get out there for a longer day.
still, the riding at least has been good. i imagine the boating is a bit washed out, at least the middle fork, but sounds like the swan is GREAT. anyone been on the Stillwater? And fishing? sounds like people are out there. anyone want to share a good river or two. not the section, just the river.
the new "Whitefish Trail" (was the trail runs thru it) is in great shape. and pete is working 6 days a week to get more open. but, pete and i learned the other day, as simple as it seems, one can get misplaced.
we led a group of six along the trail on wednesday evening, as part of Bikefish. we went from the Lion Mtn Loop trailhead, went up past Gogan's "driveway" which is near his new gate (this gate probably cost what many of us have into our homes. oh to be a billionaire). we decided as a group, to continue up to the next vantage point, about 10 minutes away. we had one novice rider, and a few minutes from the road, he decided he had had enough, and turned around. i should have gone with him, but the rest of the group was several minutes ahead, and i wanted to let them know, and he said, repeatedly, he was fine. so i tried to make sure he knew what trails NOT to go down, and he reiterated he was fine. so i joined the rest of the group. when we returned to the grouse mountain tennis courts from where we had started, his car was gone, so we were sure he was fine. after a bit more conversation, we all went our separate ways. only as i got into my car did he ride by. he waved hello and said he was fine, and i never saw him again. so, not sure what happened, but as he had been tired and ready to quit, i am pretty sure he did not purposely add to his ride. but somehow he had extended his ride, considerably.
maybe i should not be a guide? tonight, pete and i are leading another ride on the WFT. tonight, we are bringing cell phones and asking individuals their riding levels and experience. better safe than sorry.
let's hope for great weather, riding, boating, fishing, skiing, climbing or just hanging out with cold beverages.
still, the riding at least has been good. i imagine the boating is a bit washed out, at least the middle fork, but sounds like the swan is GREAT. anyone been on the Stillwater? And fishing? sounds like people are out there. anyone want to share a good river or two. not the section, just the river.
the new "Whitefish Trail" (was the trail runs thru it) is in great shape. and pete is working 6 days a week to get more open. but, pete and i learned the other day, as simple as it seems, one can get misplaced.
we led a group of six along the trail on wednesday evening, as part of Bikefish. we went from the Lion Mtn Loop trailhead, went up past Gogan's "driveway" which is near his new gate (this gate probably cost what many of us have into our homes. oh to be a billionaire). we decided as a group, to continue up to the next vantage point, about 10 minutes away. we had one novice rider, and a few minutes from the road, he decided he had had enough, and turned around. i should have gone with him, but the rest of the group was several minutes ahead, and i wanted to let them know, and he said, repeatedly, he was fine. so i tried to make sure he knew what trails NOT to go down, and he reiterated he was fine. so i joined the rest of the group. when we returned to the grouse mountain tennis courts from where we had started, his car was gone, so we were sure he was fine. after a bit more conversation, we all went our separate ways. only as i got into my car did he ride by. he waved hello and said he was fine, and i never saw him again. so, not sure what happened, but as he had been tired and ready to quit, i am pretty sure he did not purposely add to his ride. but somehow he had extended his ride, considerably.
maybe i should not be a guide? tonight, pete and i are leading another ride on the WFT. tonight, we are bringing cell phones and asking individuals their riding levels and experience. better safe than sorry.
let's hope for great weather, riding, boating, fishing, skiing, climbing or just hanging out with cold beverages.
Monday, June 7, 2010
http://swancrest100.blogspot.com/
http://www.swancrest100.blogspot.com/
here is the official spot to see what is going on and to link to comment to the usfs. please get on board on this. this should be a super cool event, and have little to no impact on the trail, bears, or land. the biggest impact is on the sickos that are running this race.
here is the official spot to see what is going on and to link to comment to the usfs. please get on board on this. this should be a super cool event, and have little to no impact on the trail, bears, or land. the biggest impact is on the sickos that are running this race.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
summer is getting busy
even if the weather does not cooperate, there is a ton of fun stuff going on in the next few weeks. and a few opportunities to lend a helping hand.
take a look at these websites for tons of info. the next two weeks are chock full of fun and opportunities to help and support the community.
http://www.flatheadfattires.com/
http://www.trailrunsthroughit.org/
http://www.bikefish.org/
i will be leading, with pete, the tours on the TRTI, now officially called the "whitefish trail", as well as sunday's ride at the pig farms. come join us.
come see the film on sunday, june 13.
come watch some pro bikers in their criterium, in town.
but just check out the websites for more info.
hope to see you,
take a look at these websites for tons of info. the next two weeks are chock full of fun and opportunities to help and support the community.
http://www.flatheadfattires.com/
http://www.trailrunsthroughit.org/
http://www.bikefish.org/
i will be leading, with pete, the tours on the TRTI, now officially called the "whitefish trail", as well as sunday's ride at the pig farms. come join us.
come see the film on sunday, june 13.
come watch some pro bikers in their criterium, in town.
but just check out the websites for more info.
hope to see you,
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
june 1
it sure looks like a wet start to the rainy season, and as usual, we need the moisture. of course, we all want a sunny day or three, but just remember, each day of rain puts off summer fires just a little bit more. and since this was looking like a catacylmic fire season just a month ago, i am not ready to complain, yet.
i still like to think that every day at this time of year offers some openings when you can get out and play. it seems like once you get started riding, hiking or fishing, a bit of rain is not horrendous. an example. we were in ovando this long weekend, and the weather there was not much better than here. but we waited for our window, and got in two good hikes and a great ride in helena yesterday. we woke on monday to rain, but called a couple of shops in helena, and got word that it had remained mostly dry, with on brief showers forecast for memorial day. so we loaded up bikes and dogs, a few beers and snacks, and headed south. sure, we did get some rain, and a bit of mud, but overall, a great ride. in fact, it made the weekend. so no regrets.
today is the first farmers market downtown. not the best weather, but sure to be fun. time to get the rest of the garden done, get the flowers in, all that make summer so wonderful. so zip up the raincoat, carry some rain pants, and head on out.
i still like to think that every day at this time of year offers some openings when you can get out and play. it seems like once you get started riding, hiking or fishing, a bit of rain is not horrendous. an example. we were in ovando this long weekend, and the weather there was not much better than here. but we waited for our window, and got in two good hikes and a great ride in helena yesterday. we woke on monday to rain, but called a couple of shops in helena, and got word that it had remained mostly dry, with on brief showers forecast for memorial day. so we loaded up bikes and dogs, a few beers and snacks, and headed south. sure, we did get some rain, and a bit of mud, but overall, a great ride. in fact, it made the weekend. so no regrets.
today is the first farmers market downtown. not the best weather, but sure to be fun. time to get the rest of the garden done, get the flowers in, all that make summer so wonderful. so zip up the raincoat, carry some rain pants, and head on out.
Friday, May 28, 2010
rainy end of may
so, this is the beginning of summer season? well, at least it will help in keeping rivers flowing, snow from melting, grass and gardens and flowers growing. but it is not the best for seeing how many outdoor endeavors you can do in one day. but remember, in these days, there is always an opening of pleasant weather. and once you are out moving, a squall or rain is not likely to go forever, and it is not that cold, so keep moving and make a memory.
or just stay inside and whine.
off to ovando. weather does not look too much better there, or anywhere in the state. let's review on tuesday.
or just stay inside and whine.
off to ovando. weather does not look too much better there, or anywhere in the state. let's review on tuesday.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
check this out
http://www.dailyinterlake.com/news/local_montana/article_5e919e1a-669c-11df-8218-001cc4c002e0.html
go ahead and highlight this and put into your browser. this article brings light to an upcoming race this summer, and how one man, has too much time without enough to do. ( perhaps like my time spending writing blogs, but he does this full time). anyway, read the article, then the comments, which are quite humorous, unless you feel sorry for keith. then stay up to date on the issue and write some comments to the usfs when the time comes. i will keep that up to date as well. this could be a signiture event in the area. these ultra marathons are never going to attract thousands of participants, likely not even hundreds. they are brutal events, for the fittest of the endurance athletes. and unlike a road event, if you quit somewhere along the line, your day is not done. you still have to get out. only the strongest (and perhaps most feeble of mind) enter such events. best to support it, read about it, then enjoy a nice day hike or multi-day trip, with tents, bags, food and even a drop or two.
go ahead and highlight this and put into your browser. this article brings light to an upcoming race this summer, and how one man, has too much time without enough to do. ( perhaps like my time spending writing blogs, but he does this full time). anyway, read the article, then the comments, which are quite humorous, unless you feel sorry for keith. then stay up to date on the issue and write some comments to the usfs when the time comes. i will keep that up to date as well. this could be a signiture event in the area. these ultra marathons are never going to attract thousands of participants, likely not even hundreds. they are brutal events, for the fittest of the endurance athletes. and unlike a road event, if you quit somewhere along the line, your day is not done. you still have to get out. only the strongest (and perhaps most feeble of mind) enter such events. best to support it, read about it, then enjoy a nice day hike or multi-day trip, with tents, bags, food and even a drop or two.
Monday, May 24, 2010
short weekend
weekends always seem too quick. even the long ones. they are mini-vacations, but like all vacations, they are just too short.
the weather was not great this past weekend, but like so many days in the spring in montana, there is always enough good weather to have some fun.
so there we were, sitting at the base of all the roadside climbs at stone hill, when the rain started. we had hoped to go to one of the more off road locations, to allow the dogs and kids to run around a bit, but the weather just did not cooperate. so instead, we hung out and waited. and finally, it stopped, the sun came out enough to dry the rock and we were all able to climb multiple pitches. as per usual, i flailed mightily on a 5-8 face climb. small foot and hand holds are my nemesis. for better or worse, i perform better in large cracks and off widths.
after about 5 hours, we called it a day, as we were camping nearby and hoped the next day would bring more clear weather. so, after a mellow morning, and an hour on our mountain bikes, the weather looked, well, worse. so my wife and i decided to go the other way, back to the flathead, with stop for the dogs to swim and us to walk. there is a day use area on the south side of dickey lake that is really nice. super low key. clean. plenty of space to bbq, play horseshoes, and hangout. very kid friendly.
so now we are already looking forward to the long weekend coming up. we are going to make it a four day weekend,and head to ovando and hope to get some warm sunny weather, drop our lines in the river, ride our bikes somewhere nearby and visit the local institution.
the weather was not great this past weekend, but like so many days in the spring in montana, there is always enough good weather to have some fun.
so there we were, sitting at the base of all the roadside climbs at stone hill, when the rain started. we had hoped to go to one of the more off road locations, to allow the dogs and kids to run around a bit, but the weather just did not cooperate. so instead, we hung out and waited. and finally, it stopped, the sun came out enough to dry the rock and we were all able to climb multiple pitches. as per usual, i flailed mightily on a 5-8 face climb. small foot and hand holds are my nemesis. for better or worse, i perform better in large cracks and off widths.
after about 5 hours, we called it a day, as we were camping nearby and hoped the next day would bring more clear weather. so, after a mellow morning, and an hour on our mountain bikes, the weather looked, well, worse. so my wife and i decided to go the other way, back to the flathead, with stop for the dogs to swim and us to walk. there is a day use area on the south side of dickey lake that is really nice. super low key. clean. plenty of space to bbq, play horseshoes, and hangout. very kid friendly.
so now we are already looking forward to the long weekend coming up. we are going to make it a four day weekend,and head to ovando and hope to get some warm sunny weather, drop our lines in the river, ride our bikes somewhere nearby and visit the local institution.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
riding
for those of you who do not know, there is a whole bunch of new trail completed on the Whitefish Trail, (the name just recently and officially changed from "the trail runs thru it"). you can start at two locations near town. one is off the Lion Mtn Loop road. drive as if going to state park off hwy 93 north. go past the golf course, veer right on State Park rd., then go straight thru the stop sign (but do stop first, at least periferrally). then go onto the dirt road, for about a mile. there is a new dirt road about 1/4 mile before this road gets back to the highway. you can see a metal gate. there is a large parking lot. go around the gate and up the road 1/2 mile or more, and eventually you will see a trail on the right. if you run into the beat up car, then you are close. look around. yes, that car is mine. i tried to go under the gate. perhaps i thought i was still on that four wheeler in mexico. anyway, from this trail, it is only about 10 minutes until you summit above the rock band with a nice view down to skyles lake, and the mccarthy residence. there is a small loop at the top, but instead of this, continue on the main trail, down under the cliff band, the best section so far. the trail weaves and wags for a few miles, intersects with a dirt road (not sure where this goes), stay on the trail. it intersects with the trail that goes to the skyles parking lot (more on that route tomorrow). keep on going. soon the trail intersects with the Gogan road (or driveway, depending on your deposition). you can cross this road and continue onthe trail down almost to beaver lake. you can easily get to the lake. take a deep breath, and plunge into the water. hop back on your bike and return to you car. estimated round trip, 2 hours. or do a shorter version.
this is a nice intermediate trail, with some good climbing and great fast sections. it is not very difficult, and certainly NOT a Freeride. it is a great start that will continue to grow and improve thru the summer and years into the future.
ron at glacier cyclery is starting a challenge to all local businesses to ride to work. contact him for more info, but it is always a good idea.
the www.bikefish.org website is up and running. take a look for info on trails week, starting with a 5 km run on sunday, june 6th.
should be a great summer.
this is a nice intermediate trail, with some good climbing and great fast sections. it is not very difficult, and certainly NOT a Freeride. it is a great start that will continue to grow and improve thru the summer and years into the future.
ron at glacier cyclery is starting a challenge to all local businesses to ride to work. contact him for more info, but it is always a good idea.
the www.bikefish.org website is up and running. take a look for info on trails week, starting with a 5 km run on sunday, june 6th.
should be a great summer.
Monday, May 17, 2010
flathead valley rules
yep, though back to work, which is never great, even for those who say they truly love what they do; life back home is pretty great. this place just affords us everything. this weekend included time in the yard and garden, on the bike, on a very fun run/walk, for the dog park and WAG, and at the beach, while it is still uncrowded and dogs can run around and swim and have fun.
the fun run included a 15km run, a four mile walk or run,and a 1.5 miles walk or run. dogs were invited, although they had to be on leash, which really is not that fun for most dogs. but they all got along. this event was a fundraiser for WAG, the dog park in whitefish. it was well organized, with tons of food, beer, water and prizes. i don't know the number, but it seems there were well over 100 people entered in all. unfortunately, i did not take any pictures.
besides the show sponsored by don and rmo at wf lake lodge, pete and FFT are sponsoring a bike movie at grouse mtn. lodge. unfortunately, both are on thursday night. pick you poison, or join me at both. they should both be great.
other upcoming events. there is a week of fun bike rides, both mountain biking and on the new bike paths around wf, starting with a 5 mile run on sunday june 6. then strting on wed. there will be nightly guided rides on the bike paths as well as on several sections of the new "trail runs thru it". please go to www.bikefish.org for exact info and details. right now this site is under construction, but should be complete any day.
below are some more pictures from mexico.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)