Today we woke up at 5 and left an hour later in an effort to get to breakfast quickly. We had a 24 mile ride on roads we didn’t trust (as they caused 2 falls in the last 20 miles yesterday) to get to the Hungry Bear Cafe, to whom we owe thanks as they took our orders half an hour before they opened. The food was delicious and unexpected as I didn’t expect to see avocado toast and an açaí bowl on a menu in Western Montana.

We originally planned to stay in Swan Lake, but Mr. Malinchock said there was nothing there. This was confirmed when we stopped there for a break at the “Swan Lake Trading Post” which was not only closed, but had no floor inside.

We had 2 gas station stops about 30 miles apart which were much appreciated as it was hot today compared to the last week. We got in to Bigfork, MT our destination for the day, at about 3 p.m., but we struggled to find a place to stay. The National Park campground was full and we were told to go to this hidden place behind some energy plant on the lake with about 15 turns on the way by a local who said we could use his name if we were told to leave. But the group unexpectedly decided against that plan. Evan eventually found a pavilion at the school in town that’s near food, has a bathroom and power (which makes it a 5-star spot in our book).

Tomorrow we stop in Kalispell for a break day, and it’s only 18 miles away which makes tomorrow close to a break day too.

Until next time, Ryan.