Day 68, the rocky road to Philipsburg

The advice I received would be better directed at a bike-packer with less weight. Rock Creek Road turned even rockier, and my hundred pound bike (101 lbs to be exact - extra water provisions not included) had some trouble with the terrain.

I stopped at a campground to make some coffee about an hour into the ride. I met Chris and his family there, adventuring from Bismark North Dakota.

He gave me his number if I needed anything and said I had a place to stay in North Dakota when I get there.

Nice people. Everywhere.

The dirt road better suited for a mountain bike continued on for what seemed like ages, still next to the beautiful Rock Creek.

The terrain forced me to stop several times and walk. I took this at the top of one of those gravel hills:

Eventually, I crossed a bridge into farmland, climbed and descended a massive hill and coasted into Philipsburg.

Of course I stopped at the brewery. And it is by far, one of my favorites of the trip.

Inside, I saw Chris (and his family) enjoying the local fare.

I also met Charles, and architect getting some work done (while on a fishing trip - the perks of working remotely). He said that he saw me climbing that massive hill, wobbling around and debated whether or not I was ok... Thankfully, all good.

He offered to buy me a beer (thanks!) and ordered the same for himself. Charles, if you read this, shoot me an email. I have more questions about shipping container houses.

Impressed with the brewery I bought a hat - the first piece of brewery swag purchased on the bike ride.

Joe