Jackson, which sits at about 6,200 feet, is a very small town with one main, tarred street of maybe 200 yards and a few side streets which have gravel surfaces. There's a small school, post office, shop, hotel/restaurant and some businesses. Despite its size, Jackson provided me with 2 first experiences. At 6am this morning there was a 'cattle drive' through the town's main street. Maybe 2 to 3 hundred cattle moving at a trot and being driven by cowboys and a cowgirl, all on horseback, with appropriate hats, leather overtrousers and some with lasso es. This is not a tourist thing but an almost daily event. Didn't manage a photo but shortly after did get one of the cowboys/girl when they were having breakfast.
The second new experience was an hour in the hot springs pool. What a worthwhile 6 dollars. Every day should start this way.
Said bye to the three young lads and to Oliver, "Thank you for your kind offer". Also had breakfast and a long chat with the waitress who move to the US from Holland as a child. Femke, "Thank you for taking an interest in my trip and providing me with loads of local information". Thanks also to all the other nice folks at the Hot Springs Hotel/Restaurant.
Started out at noon, heading south on road 278 crossing Big Hole Pass (7,400') where there's a nice view point looking back over Big Hole and the Bitterroot mountains. Badger Pass (6760') was next, before the drop down to Dillon where I called in at the library. Headed up road 41 and camped in a State Transportation area with views over to the Pioneer Mountains. Came across my first cactus here and almost stuck the tent on top of one!
Updated: Twin Bridges, Montana (library).
Andrew.... ya gotta love the names of some of the places out West. Sorta brings a tear to the eye.
ReplyDeleteLooks like you're in for some nasty (wet/cold) weather as you venture East. Sorry.... tried to warn you. I am SO pleased that the Americans that you're meeting are friendly & welcoming. Good on us :-)
Glad all has went well and that you are meeting so many nice people. Hope all keeps going so well. We are all really proud of you.
ReplyDeleteAndrew,
ReplyDeleteYou're doing a great job! I love your stories and experiences that you are sharing! We continue to cover you with prayers of protection and blessings.
Beware of the fountain soda...its the unclean soda machines, not the ice!
Fiona says....Just to say hi and am continuing to read your blog with great interest. Keep warm and safe my good friend. well done Andrew
ReplyDeleteLove Fi x