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From Icy Grip to Smoky Heat
OK, mountain bike originals! Winter feels like ancient history now, and yep, the snow has melted. Reflecting on my absurd journey from snow to sun this summer, exploring the wreckage of my old bikes and broken-down new ones, I’m conjuring up unconventional daring escapades! Orca, my trusty steed, might just get a whimsical transformation into…
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The Butte 50: A Bumpy Ride and Bitter…sweet Farewell…Maybe
Hey there, me. You adventure seeker! Welcome to your race report for the Butte 50 – a one-of-a-kind event that turned out to be quite the peculiar journey. As a seasoned rider with a knack for snarky commentary, I was all set to take on the Butte 50 with my typical quirky style. Little did…
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Contrast Adventures
A ZEB suspension fork in the snow,A place where I’m not supposed to go.Adventure in last winter’s cold,A stark contrast to yesterday’s 103 degrees, so bold. The thrill of the unknown,As I ventured out alone.The snow crunched beneath my feet,A far cry from yesterday’s scorching heat. The chill of last winter’s air,As I explored without…
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Scorching Summit: Biking from Missoula to Miller Peak
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Sunset Silhouettes and Blooming Wonders
Imagine standing in a gallery, surrounded by the most exquisite flower photographs, each vying for the title of the top flower picture of the century. That’s exactly where I found myself, in the midst of the International Cool Flower Shop on Road Contest. As a participant, I had four contenders, each unique, each a testament…
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The Hidden Gem of Trout Creek
Hey there, adventurous spirits! Let’s dive into the heart of Montana’s serene wilderness at Trout Creek Campground. Nestled in the Lolo National Forest, this spot is a true nature lover’s paradise. With its elevation at 3,000 feet and spanning across a cozy 6 acres, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. The campground…
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Pedal Power and Petals
Mid-June rolls in with a fanfare of colors, the spring flowers are in full bloom, and the call of adventure echoes from the mountain trails. It’s that time of year when mountain biking isn’t just a sport; it’s a ticket to an exhilarating experience amidst nature’s finest show. There’s something magical about pedaling through the…
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Colors of Waterworks Hill
In the heart of Missoula’s serene embrace,On Waterworks Hill, nature’s grace,Where yellow blanket flowers glow,And bitterroots in charcruise show. A dance of colors under the sky so wide,Montana’s beauty, with pride,In whispers of the breeze, stories untold,Of petals and hues, bold and gold. Amidst the hills, where dreams take flight,In Missoula’s day and tranquil night,Flowers…
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Darkwing Rides: From Blackfoot to Mineral Peak
Our journey kicks off in the familiar, rugged paths of the Blackfoot Corridor. Darkwing, with its sleek frame and unyielding tires, is more than just a bike; it’s my partner in crime against the mundane. We’re not just riding; we’re carving memories on the trails. The climb to Mineral Peak is where Darkwing truly shines.…
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A Day of Fun and Adventure at Wahkeena Falls
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A moment in time
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Rainy Days to Golden Trails
Waking up to the sound of rain at Disco Bike Park, our spirits could’ve easily dampened like the ground outside. But no, we’re not the types to let a little water ruin our plans. Instead, we transformed what could have been a washout into an unforgettable adventure. Our first move? Packing up our bags with…
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Mom’s Final Surprise
Mom always wanted us to get together as a family, but I was never a fan of sacrificing my summer weekends for reunions. Well, mom got the last laugh. After she passed away, we all gathered to say goodbye and I had some unexpected reunions. First, I reconnected with my biological father, Ronnie, whom I…
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Bike-pouting
Bike-pouting, a term endearingly coined by a friend, is more than just a phrase; it’s a soul-soothing practice. It’s when you grab your bike and hit the trails, not just for the love of the ride but as a means to pedal through whatever’s weighing on your mind. You ride until that nagging feeling, that…
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Goodbye
Reflecting on the warmth of home and the comfort of nature, today’s story weaves together the contrasting experiences of two souls. Mo, embracing the tranquility of hiking and capturing the beauty of flowers, finds solace in the vibrant Blanket Flower, her favorite. Meanwhile, I remain in Billings, immersed in a more somber mood as I…
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A Day of Reconnections and New Bonds
Imagine a day that starts like any other but transforms into a tapestry of familial connections, weaving together past and future in a single, unforgettable experience. That was the essence of my recent visit – a journey not just across miles, but through the intricate layers of family ties. Reconnecting with Roots The day was…
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Rediscovering Trails at Phipps Park
Sometimes, life’s solemn moments lead us back to places filled with memories. This was my experience during a recent trip to Billings, Montana. Amidst the somber reason for my visit—a funeral—I found a moment to reconnect with a piece of my past: the mountain bike trails at Phipps Park. Back in the day, I was…
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Journey Through the Heart of Montana
Sometimes life takes us on journeys wrapped in quiet reflections, leading us through the heart of our memories and landscapes alike. Today, I find myself embarking on such a journey, traveling from the scenic vistas of Missoula to the bustling streets of Billings, Montana. A journey necessitated by a solemn occasion, a funeral, yet it…