Dry Creek

Fourth of July. For some it means BBQ's, Boating and Beer; a great patriotic day to wave our flag to show the world we are free. For me, Independence Day is more subtle, it should be a time to reflect on the gifts endowed to us by our creator, most of which is "free will". I believe there is no better way to reflect on your independence and express your free will than to ride a motorcycle on the Fourth of July.

AFOOT and light-hearted, I take to the open road,
Healthy, free, the world before me,
The long brown path before me, leading wherever I choose.
Henceforth I ask not good-fortune—I myself am good fortune;
Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing,
Strong and content, I travel the open road. ~Walt Whitman

Clopton Rd and The Big Belt Mountains near Townsend

I usually spend Independence Day with good friends in Livingston, MT. From Helena, there are two main routes that lead to Montanas "Windy City", both I have traveled many times over; I wanted something different. A suggestion from an Army Buddy led me to take Dry Creek Road from Townsend to Ringling, MT.

 Just east of Townsend, Clopton Rd rides a plateau that parallels the Big Belt Mountains.  On this bright, sunny morning, crystal clear views of the snow capped Tobacco Root Range to the south were in stark contrast to the fields of green pastures. Clopton eventually leads to Dry Creek Canyon and the road that bears the same name. Although this year Dry Creek could be named anything, as it was anything but dry; spring run-off continues to rush towards the Missouri River below from distant snow fields above.

Dry Creek Road

When entering Dry Creek Road, I am quickly led into a ravine that reminded me of paths near Sedona, Arizona and Oak Creek Canyon; at one point there is only room for the narrowing road and the not so dry creek. Once through the narrow gorge, this backwoods thoroughfare climbs steadily through the forest until the land starts to flatten along the creek where choice camping spots have been occupied by comfy looking RV's.

The Big Open

Soon, I pass through a large gate and over a cattle guard; just ahead is a "big open" area which looks like a great place to take a break. I snap a few photos, nibble on some trail mix and reconfirm my position on the map. Over a nearby rise, a large herd of cattle are being led through the wildflowers to an adjacent pasture by a dozen riders on horseback; they appeared to be taking a leisurely pace, letting their herding dogs do the work. One cow seemed to be quite obstinate and refused to go with the herd; she stood firm, turned in the opposite direction, making a lot of noise as if she was putting her hoof down and declaring her own independence.

The obstacle

One more swig of water and I was moving again through the mountain pastures, but not for long. Rounding a corner, a soft muddy portion of the road came into view. I dismounted the motorbike to assess the conditions: the ruts were too deep and soft, yet a trail had been blazed through the grass. Should I play it safe and turn around? Should I take a chance and follow the grassy detour? "If You drop this bike, You'll never be able to pick it up alone",  I said to myself, "and retracing steps is out of the question". After a reassessment of the bypass, I decided the "just gas it and you'll be fine" plan was the best option. A small running start was required to get a little momentum and to allow me stand on the foot pegs to lower the center of gravity; without effort the oversized adventure bike rolled up, traversed, and descended the embankment with ease. I'm mightily impressed how the big BMW handles its bulk off road.    

Sixteen Mile Road

After the mud pit was avoided, the road gets sandy and continues toward Sixteen Mile Road. Riding now through grasslands, four mountain ranges surround as Ringling, MT comes into view. Ringling was named after the famous Circus family who owned large ranches in the area. Not much exists in this lonely little town, a saloon and Post Office seem to be the only evidence of activity... and both were closed. In need of nourishment, I scoot down Highway 89 towards Wilsall, there the Wilsall Cafe serves up some tasty hamburgers from beef off their own ranch. Yum!

Train Station at Ringling, MT

In all, the Dry Creek to Sixteen Mile Road took about three hours to complete including stops for photos and obstacles. Its a great road to ride and reflect on the freedoms and opportunities we have been endowed with in our great country. I'm so glad we put our hoof down and claimed our Independence.