Day 18 Flagg Ranch Village to Dubois

84 miles (135 km) – Total so far: 908 miles (1,461 km)

Ed at the Flagg Ranch bar was one of those barman who is a bit over the top. I understand he wants a tip, but he can’t be everyone’s best friend. The beer was from Snake River Brewing company, so another one ticked off the list, and a pleasant evening.

Although it was a dry morning, that didn’t last long. Having cycled nearer than any motorist was allowed to a grizzly bear at the side of the road, the Tetons cleared and there was a great view of the ridge for half an hour. But that was all. Living in Cumbria I am used to the rain, but this has now been 4 days pretty much non-stop, and soaked on arrival into camp every time. The ride though was exceptional. At the Moran Junction after just less than 30 miles, my route turned west on 287 and after riding through Buffalo Valley, heads up over the Togwotee Pass at 9584 feet, or 2920 metres. It was a slow climb of 900 meters with a welcome lunch stop at the Togwoteee Lodge, just 6 miles from the pass. It is really a 20 mile climb, although the gradient varies up to a maximum of 6%. The downhill then to camp was pretty much 30 miles, the first 10 at a gradient of 6%.

Dubois is controversially pronounced ‘dew-bois’. No one originally intended that. It really is a great spot. It doesn’t try to be touristic, but is very appealing with its old time west appearance. The KOA despite being $30 ( no military discount this time) does help to get things dry. I just threw all the gear I was wearing, boots and all, in the dryer. Wifi in the tent also, good after a few days without. I’ve another spoke gone on the back wheel, a concern when the next bike shop is not for 100 miles.

Distance 83 miles Ride time 6 hrs 53 minutes Average Speed 11.9 mph Max Speed 38.2 mph, Departed 9:15 am, arrived 5:35 pm