Topics

1

Routes / Alternate Route Thru Glacier?

« on: July 27, 2007, 12:53:19 am »

My husband and I are on the Northern Tier heading west towards Glacier.  In looking at the map, it appears that a possible alternate route is to stay on 2 west out of Cut Bank into Browning, then head north on 89 to St. Mary and into the park.  

Can anyone comment on this route?  I'm not sure what the loop into Canada adds and we definitely want to do the ride over Logan Pass.

Many thanks -- Mary

2

Routes / Northern Tier - East to West vs. West to East

« on: May 11, 2007, 12:53:08 pm »

My husband and I have long been planning a Northern Tier trip starting in May 2007.  We're now in our second delay, the first because of the late opening in the Cascades and the second after I crashed last week and fractured my wrist.  The cast comes off in 3 weeks and we're still hoping to get a trip in.  If we delay much longer, it won't happen this year because of late summer obligations.

Here's the question: We've always planned a west to east trip.  Should we reverse direction?

I have read and heard a lot about the merits of west to east, most having to do with prevailing winds and the mental boost of riding towards home (we live just outside of Boston).

My big concern about west to east is hitting the Cascades on day 3 with a death grip on my brakes and an arm that won't get much exercise for a month.  

If we do east to west, we'll be able to ease into the ride and give my wrist a chance to remember what it's like to sit on the handle bars for 8 hours.  Plus (as my brother in law pointed out), you can always phone home if you get to Vermont and realize that you're just not going to make it.


Logistically, we have a friend in Seattle who will help us get started, so we would just need a plane ticket and we'll take the bikes on the plane with us.  If we start from Boston, we pack our panniers and go.

Help!  I'm open to any and all opinions.

  -Mary

3

Routes / Northern Tier May 1 Departure

« on: April 02, 2007, 04:57:21 pm »

My husband and I are planning a Northern Tier trip (west to east), beginning on May 1st.  I'm a little concerned that this is too early and would appreciate any insight regarding weather conditions.  We've certainly ridden in cool, rainy weather in the past, but I'd hate to spend the first few weeks being only cold.  We'll be self-supported and plan to do a combination of camping and hotels.  Thanks!