An RDT Ruckus with Larry!

Howdy, Missoula mavericks! Calling all thrill-seekers and brew-loving bandits, because this blog post is serving up a double dose of adventure – and maybe a side of adrenaline rush! ‍♂️

Yesterday, yours truly and my trusty riding buddy Larry decided to tackle a long-awaited loop: the Reservation Divide Trail (RDT) in the Nine Mile Valley. With mountain bikes loaded and spirits high, we embarked on our journey, ready to conquer miles of trails and maybe even snag some epic views.

Fast forward an hour of uphill grind on Edith Peak Road (let’s just say our glutes got a serious workout!), and bam! Larry spots a sight that makes your heart skip a beat – a majestic mountain lion strolling up the road right behind us! Talk about a close encounter of the wild kind! This was my first Montana mountain lion sighting, and let me tell you, it was both exhilarating and a little nerve-wracking.

After this unexpected wildlife welcome, we reached the RDT and started tackling the single-track towards the peak formerly known as Squaw Peak (SQP for short, and for the sake of this blog!). The trail lived up to its reputation – rooty, rocky, and oh-so-technically challenging. But hey, that’s what makes our adrenaline pump, right? The only snag? A thin layer of ice on the rocks added a touch of precarious fun (or maybe terror, depending on who you ask).

Despite the icy challenge, we reached the crossroads just a half-mile shy of the SQP summit. With the wind picking up and snow flurries starting to swirl, we decided to switch gears and descend down the alternative trail. Let me tell you, that descent was pure downhill joy – fast, flowing, and over before we knew it!

With our legs buzzing and smiles wide, we rolled back to our trusty steeds parked near the ranger station. And what better way to end an epic adventure than with burgers, beers, and fries at a local Nine Mile Valley joint? As Larry perfectly summarized, the day was a masterpiece of “vigorous new un-ridden scenic loop, perfect timing, refreshing snowstorm, mountain lion sighting, and post-ride grub with a side of Grizzlies on TV!”

So there you have it, folks! Another Montana adventure etched in memories and fueled by sweat, camaraderie, and maybe a touch of wildlife excitement. Remember, even the most planned adventures can take unexpected turns, and that’s what makes them truly unforgettable. Until next time, keep exploring, keep adventuring, and keep an eye out for mountain lions on the trail!