Total miles – 381.40 Total ascent – 27,621 ft
Cooper Lake to Barbara Nyes Llama Ranch
After leaving tranquil Cooper Lake today we started the first climb of the day up Huckleberry Pass. This climb was as delightful as huckleberry pie. There were great views, a gentle 5% average grade and huckleberries to pick at the top.
After descending Huckleberry Pass we made a little stop in Lincoln, MT for some cold drinks.
The next climb was not so gradual. The ride up Stemple Pass was rocky and steep in sections, especially the last mile of the five mile climb. At the top of the pass was our first crossing of the Continental Divide although there wasn’t a sign there declaring it. My riding buddy Alison, who is 70 rode the whole climb!!! What a beast! I rode most of it but walked a short section while my heart rate calmed down.
Unfortunately near the bottom of the descent Alison had a tumble and dislocated her shoulder. We are still waiting for her to get back from the hospital to see what the future holds. I hope she can rest a few days and continue. She is a great riding buddy and we ride at exactly the same pace.
Our campsite for the night is a famous one on the Divide- Barbara and John Nyes llama ranch. They don’t charge anything for riders to stay here, even our big group. They just ask that we pay it forward in some way within the next 24 hours. I’ll see what I can do tomorrow.
Annie Bikes 
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