WS10 Waterton Lakes Park to St Mary

A.m. temperature is not as cold as forecast but the wind is worrisome. In the park I can’t tell which direction it’s coming from. We’ll know soon enough.

We know there are two climbs this morning, both around 1,000 feet. They turn out to be steeper than previous climbs, averaging probably 7% grade.  We have mountain bike gears and today we use them; thus the climbs are not a big problem. It’s work, but not pain. See map and elevation profile at http://ridewithgps.com/trips/98792

At one point, it seems to get colder. Brenda points out snow beside the road. Duh.

As we climb, we’re sweating, in spite of temperatures in the low 50’s. But the wind is blowing and evaporating the sweat. So we’re both hot and cold. No combination of clothes seems proper.

At mile 20, almost to the top of the second climb, we re-enter the U.S. At a prior happy-hour discussion, most people – me included - have had bad experience with US immigration people. And this is not due to Sept 11; I had problems when I worked internationally in the early 1980’s. But the immigration staff at the Canadian border today is very professional and no one has a problem with entry.

After the second climb, we have about 10 miles of rolling terrain above 5,000 feet. It’s an enjoyable ride. I notice deciduous trees for the first time on the trip. There is a feeling and scent of autumn in the air. Indeed, the Waterton Lakes National Park will close for the winter in October.

We descend probably 1,000 feet and turn west on Highway 89 – and the wind is fierce for the next 12 miles. As the road makes slight turns the wind mostly slows us way down but occasionally tries to blow us from the shoulder to the right lane. For a very short time, it actually helps us. But overall it’s tough. ‘Tires us more that the two climbs. We reward ourselves with pie a la mode .3 of a mile from the inn.

Tomorrow, Going to the Sun Highway, starting with a 2,000 foot climb, twice as high as any on this trip.