Day One is In the Books

June 13, 2025

I am not sure when you are going to be getting this as the place we are staying tonight has limited to no internet access and there is even less cell phone coverage out here. But we’re at a great place called the Pahaska Tepee Resort and it’s just 2 miles from the Yellowstone East Entrance.

History lesson time…many of you Coloradoans believe that Buffalo Bill is buried at the top of Lookout Mt in Golden. Well Buffalo Bill’s hunting cabin is on the property here in Pahaska, WY and the folks here believe Buffalo Bill is buried on the top of a mountain but not Lookout Mt. They believe it’s a mountain out here in Wyoming, the part of the country that he really thought of as home. Their story makes more sense to me as I never understood why he would be buried in Colorado. Might have to refer this one to The Myth Busters.

Today’s ride was as wonderful as I thought it would be, just a bit harder. To start the day, we rode from West Yellowstone to the West Entrance into Yellowstone National Park. Yes, I said we. I know I said I was doing the ride alone, but how could I resist an escort to the starting line (picture attached). From there I followed Madison River then, Gibbon River then, Yellowstone River, then the coast of Yellowstone Lake, and then up a grinding climb to Sylvan Pass followed by a screaming 5 mile downhill to the park exit.

The cars were very accommodating today. Might be because it was a weekday versus a weekend, who knows. The people I met and chatted with at the rest stops were either cycling enthusiasts who were jealous of my ride or good old-fashioned well-wishers. One woman made me laugh when she declared that I was doing great because they had passed me and I caught back up to them. I am certain that was because they kept stopping and not because I was fast. Mrs G sagged me for the day, but we got separated when two buffalo walked across the road and I was busy taking a picture of a wolf. I rode 81 miles (4k of climbing) and she drove 108 miles. As always, she wins!

Wildlife sightings today included tons of bison, a grey wolf, a grizzly bear, and lots of ducks and other birds (pictures attached but not of the bear).

And now a public service announcement. Folks we need to do everything we can to protect our National Parks and the wildlife who call the parks their home. Our National Parks are so precious and while some people think there are better uses for the land, I for one would love for the Parks to be a legacy we all leave to the generations who follow us. So let’s band together and PROTECT OUR NATIONAL PARKS!

Today I rode for me and tomorrow I ride for all of you who gather peacefully on June 14th to show the world that America is a country of good, caring people that believe we have an obligation to help and protect those less fortunate than ourselves in our country and that we willingly assume the role of world leader and advocate for peace and prosperity for all.

Until tomorrow...

Sorta the sign of the day. It's the side of a train car and a perfect start of the day.

Yes indeed that is Mrs G jumping on a cruiser to escort me to the start of the adventure. Isn't she just the best!

One of the first views when you enter the park. It's Mt Haynes

Gibbons falls was a good place to take a break and see Mrs G

Random scenery picture. If I stopped to take a picture of all the great scenery, then I'd still be at mile 5 for the day.

A grey wolf sighting. Not the best picture as I had to zoom my phone to 25 to see him. I consider it good luck that I even had the opportunity to see a wolf...and of course that he didn't eat me

Mr Bison was well behaved. Can't say the same for his friends who crossed the road and held up traffic.

Uphill yes but still just such a beautiful place to ride and yes climb.

The top of the climb and the entry into 5 miles of screaming downhill. Pea Soup Green gets the glory!

Today's ride: 81 miles (130 km)
Total: 81 miles (130 km)

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Jim MeadowsIan, I absolutely loved this post! Thank you for sharing your adventure and insights.
Please stay safe and enjoy the moments!
💙
Jimmy
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