Bozeman, Montana to Saint Mary, Montana

We drove through Bozeman pass which was our first high elevation over 5750 feet.  Impressive.  Bozeman the town looked like a fun place to spend some shopping time.  We had to drive through the Main Street area to get to our camping site.  It was a Friday night and many people were out and about. Shops were opened.  Many restaurants and eateries with outside seating were filled with customers.  But, we had bought some fish and Frank was going to make fish tacos for dinner.  We could of gone to the nearby hot springs but it was late and we needed to get up early to be our way for the final leg of the destination.

Soon after leaving Bozeman today we exited the interstate for the first time since we started our trip.  Being on a two-way highway creates a whole new experience.  Suddenly you are closer to the scenery. It engulfs you where before it kept its distance somewhat.   We are heading farther and farther north.  I saw an antelope this morning loping across a dry field leaving a trail of dust.   Otherwise, the land looks green and gold.  Have seen a couple Magpies flying over the ditches.  Lots of wildflowers which I am not familiar with.

White Charolais cattle juxtaposed against white cumulus clouds makes a striking picture.  I will see if I can get a decent photo of it.

Passed a grass fire that several fire trucks were putting out.  Fire danger is high right now.  Very dry air which feels pretty good after leaving the high humidity of Iowa earlier this week. 

Had a precarious six mile stretch of road construction.  I am glad it is Saturday and the crews are not working.  Road construction has not been bad overall.

We must be getting closer to Canada.  There is definitely a French influence in the names of the towns.  Dupuyer.  Choteau.  As we drive on this plains area which is flat and prairie like, the mountains are constantly to our right. There are fields of cattle which are grazing and some irrigated hayfields.

Just so everyone knows, we did arrive at our destination of Saint Mary, Montana at about 4:00.  Tomorrow we will venture into Glacier National Park to the welcome center and get our bearings. It was hot until the sun went behind the mountains and then the temperature dropped quickly about 8:00.  At that time everyone came out of their campers and tents and started cooking. 

Adventures start tomorrow.