After cycling for 9 days straight (not counting the day that I left Portland by car and rode 20 miles), I've reached Missoula, Montana! I decided to go for luxury and stay in a motel for 4 nights (shower + real bed!), to get some rest and experience 4th of July. The weather isa littleunstable at the moment, low clouds and afternoon thunderstorms. Riding into Missoula I could see lightning hit the mountains, pretty amazing.

It's funny to see how events have turned out. The other day I met a couple who offered me a beer (which, by the way, everyone does). They live close to Denver, and invited me to stay with them when I arrive there and they'll make sure I get to the airport safely!

I ran into two Aussies who were also headed for Missoula. We rode together for about 20 miles, whensuddenly my left SPD plate (that's the thing I click onto my pedal so my feet are mounted) came loose. For some reason, one screw was completely gone. The Aussies carried a spare screw just for this situation and gave it to me. Luck keeps helping me out!

Facts about my trip so far:

Distance covered 822km/510mi

Time cycled 39h52m

Highest altitude 1595m/5235ft (Lolo Pass)

Maximum speed 78.5kmh/48.7mph

Wildlife count: Dozens of squirrels,two skunks, a moose, two deer, lots of dead animals on the road. Wasn't able to get a picture of the moose :(

Dutch people seen: 1

Cross-country cyclists seen: 13

Driest night: Wilderness Gateway Camp Ground, Idaho. The water pump broke down.

Wettest night: Camping in Kooskia's City Park, Idaho. The sprinklers go off at night.

Hottest day: 100F/38C in the shades at Lochsa Historical Ranger Station, Idaho

Friendliest town: Pomeroy, Washington (as the welcome sign stated)

Times ID'd when ordering alcoholic drink: 0 since I left Portland