July 4 - From River to River Heading East to Glacier

Every day is a great day on the road, each with its own unique benefits. Today’s ride did not have the varied topography that yesterday’s ride did. But the meandering roads following a variety of rivers as I headed east towards Glacier National Park provided ample opportunity to reflect on all I have to be grateful for, sing, and just enjoy being on the bike.

Today’s ride started with me heading north from Omak on highway 97 along the Okanogan River at the base of the Okanogan Highlands. The light blue/green waters, lush green foliage on the riverbanks, and dry sagebrush along the road contributed to a rather serene riding environment despite the rather intense heat.

At Tonasket I turned east again on highway 20, passing over the Columbia River and through Kettle Falls and Colville. In many places there was little in the way of traffic and I was able to enjoy picture perfect postcard views of numerous older barns and farms as I continued east.

After leaving Colville I followed a large stretch of the Pend Oreille River through the towns of Jared, Priest River, and Sandpoint then took highway 2 to Bonner’s Ferry. After a day following several different rivers going east it was fitting that I ended the evening by enjoying dinner on the banks of the Kootenai River in Bonner’s Ferry.