17APRIL2010 near Loma, MT - I've learned that when the gunwhale shadow reaches a certain point on the floor it is time to find a spot for camping. So I pulled in at Glenn Terry's ranch at Pilot Rock and he directed me to a cabin slightly downstream. The cabin was occupied by four fishermen from Helena so I pitced my tarp a short distance away. As darkness gathered I was invited to join these four and enjoy a wonderful supper of potatoes and deer ... Outstanding!
Today's 31 miles were calm and warm until the last 5 miles when a slight head wind began. Though only a breeze, it slowed me down to the extent that it became obvious that I would not reach the Eagle Creek Recreation Area in a timely fashion. Mr. Terry's graciousness saved me from an unpleasant camp set-up scene as I would have been beating the darkness with no time to kick back and relax.
Today I saw 17 Mule Deer in one herd, several Bald Eagles, Geese, Ducks and Pelicans. As I passed Mssrs. Smithson and Gillespie they were landing a Sauger. Passing the Virgelle Ferry was the "10% to St. Louis" milestone. The Great Falls Tribune says showers tonight ... and clouds are gathering. It is good to be bedded down.
Glenn Terry deserves special mention. He is recognized by the "Undaunted Stewardship" program as an exemplary land owner and steward of the land. While I did not expect to turned away or treated badly, I did not expect his graciousness. It gives one a "Yes yes yes" feeling to know that such people exist and are willing to be good and decent.