I knew it was going to be cold this morning and I took appropriate measures, sadly, they were inadequate.  You would think that after almost 50 years riding a motorcycle I would have this down a little better – but I seldom ride when it’s much below 70°.  This morning it was in the low 40’s when I left and for the first three hours – only got colder.  No frostbite though – so it’s all good now.

About 20 minutes after I took this picture it began spitting snow.  Not enough to cover anything but just occasional white flakes falling.  Kinda cool but kinda cold as well.

My route today took me through the northwest corner of Yellowstone.  It’s not an entrance to “the park” or anything, just a small roadside sign letting you know.  Really beautiful….

As I got out of Yellowstone the sun started to poke through, and the snow stopped.  It’s really amazing up here, and I was warming up a little.

These are the Centennial Mountains.  They are the southernmost sub-range of the Bitterroot Mountains and are one of only a few ranges within the Rocky Mountains that trend west to east.  Their ridge line is the border between Montana and Idaho in this area.  It’s a straight line of mountains next to a meadow – far as you can see.

Idaho is all about the mountains – In fact there are 36 Major Mountain Ranges.  You can click on that illustration for more info.

Today’s ride was one of those that you’re glad you went on, but at the same time, probably would not do again.  Being in the north and northwest this time of year is always a crapshoot.  It could be rain, hail, snow, or a beautiful sunny day.  But hey, I was in the area so I decided to head over.  I have extended family here in Blackfoot and I haven’t seen them in a while so it’s time.