Atlantic to Pacific Cycling Journey 2011: Day 42 Dubois, WY to Colter Bay

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Miles 63.05 Total miles 2877.74 Daily Avg 68.52

Avg Speed 14.3 Max Speed 39.9 Alt Climbed 3494 ft

A beautiful ride over Togwotee Pass from Dubois into Grand Tetons National Park. After a 10 miles climb to 9,658 ft we had a long decent down into Colter Bay. Construction on the road during the decent required us to put our bikes in the back of a pilot pick truck and be driven 3 miles through the dangerous construction site.

After setting up our campsite in Colter Bay we headed to Jackson Hole for the evening. First we visited Hoback Junctions and drove up to Granite Hot Springs. The springs are at the end of a spectacular 10 mile drive up a rutted dirt road. On the drive we followed the Hoback River over some beautiful country. We saw several moose and deer feeding along the river. Following a slow dusty drive we got to the springs only to discover them closed. Just below the springs was a waterfall where we stopped and waded in the cold mountain water. Although the springs were closed the scenery, wildlife and the view of the waterfall were well worth the drive. Ten years ago we visited this area and stay in Hoback Junction, visiting again brought back some wonderful memories.

After dinner and walking around Jackson Hole for the evening we drove back to Colter Bay. The early mornings and evenings are the best time to view wildlife. This evening did not disappoint. We were stopped by a herd of buffalo blocking the road. The young calves were chasing each other as the large animal watched us taking photos. Also behind the buffalo were herds of deer grazing in the fields. The roads soon cleared and we were on our way until traffic was pulled over again. This time there was a grizzly bear about 1,000 yards across a field. It was difficult to see but the park rangers confirmed it was a grizzly. So much for comfortable sleeping in the campground.