The Eagle Has Landed

June 20, 2023

I'm in Canada. It's time to go.

Is that a death grip I have on the signpost?

We made it to Camore, Alberta today and I'm getting ready to start from rainy Banff tomorrow morning. Holy crap!

Jen and I drove here from Silverton to celebrate our 15th anniversary and to drop me off in Banff. We spent some great time with family in Stevensville, Montana, rode our bikes a little, dished out some trail magic to Phillip and Mary Catherine, two touring cyclists on their way to Boulder. They went through bananas and oranges like crap through a goose. We saw another rider pushing his bike in the high weeds along the road, and stopped to help.

At our Homer, Alaska wedding, July 11, 2008

A ride along a stretch of the GDMBR from Bigfork, MT to Echo Lake a couple days ago.

Uncle Rew tried to steal my bike and ride the Great Divide.

Mom, Uncle Chuck, Cousin Pat, Ain't Debbie, Jen, Cousins Ori, Charlie and Mandy in Stevensville Montana (missing- where's Amara?)

Me and GDMBR rider Levi after his bike repairs

Our Undaunted Porridge buddy Gay and his friend Denise in Kalispell

Our Undaunted Porridge buddy Gay and his friend Denise are riding the Northern Tier route with some other people. Luckily we were able to meet up with them in Kalispell and eat some delicious bratwurst and rhubarb pie at at their friends' house.

I'm gonna be seeing a lot of these. Hopefully I won't have to sleep in one. (ZOOM IN ON THE SIGN)

This morning we picked up our friend Lisa from the Whitefish Amtrak station and the 3 of us drove here today through vast and stunning scenery, some of which I'll be riding through over the next few weeks. Lisa and Jen will ride with me for a few miles, or until they see the first griz, and the they're driving back home via BC, getting some hiking and riding in along the way.

This is a wildlife migration overpass. It allows the furry critters to move freely without getting hit by frenzied drivers.

Seeing the expanse and scope of this country up close is humbling. I can tell there are loads of hungry griz in those woods, so I'm gonna have to be on my toes.

It has been a great road trip for Jen and me, and I appreciate her support of this mad expedition. And Lisa taking the train all the way to Montana to see me off is also humbling. I'm a lucky guy to have these two with me when I set out into the woods.

So, off I go on Wednesday, June 21. The forecast calls for cold and rain. Why not? As Jen says, there is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. The next week or so looks better. And, my Official Journal Name will be revealed soon. I know you can't wait.

Tomorrow!

Rate this entry's writing	Heart	17
Comment on this entry	Comment	11

Jen RahnThe starting point of a Grand Adventure!!

I feel so lucky to have shared these pre-GDMBR Tour days with the Fabulous Mr. Grumby!

What a way to celebrate 15 years: beautiful road trip, connecting with family, a couple bike rides, helping out some bike travelers, Lisa's awesome support, and a dazzling collection of Good Luck Charms.

Here's to a tour filled with beauty, awe, and all of the wonderful experiences you'll share here on CycleBlaze!
💛☮️☀️☮️💛
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1 year ago

Andrea BrownThis is so exciting, Ron! We'll be following closely. Be safe, warm, dry, and enjoy yourself. We're super proud of you.
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1 year ago

Ron SuchanekTo Andrea BrownThanks Andrea! I hope to account for myself well and I appreciate your support and inspiration.
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1 year ago

Ron SuchanekTo Jen RahnThanks for the lucky charms and guidance plotting this adventure. I'll see you at the finish line.
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1 year ago

Scott AndersonGo, Grumby!!
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1 year ago

Rachael AndersonI’m so excited for you and that I’ll have some entertaining reading following your journal! I hope it goes well for you!
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1 year ago

Gregory GarceauYou're the MAN! You are so lucky to be starting such a long, challenging bike trip. Never take Mrs. Grumby's support for granted. I guarantee it will come in handy in the weeks and months to come. I probably don't have to tell you that though.
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1 year ago

Bob DistelbergGood luck, be careful, and most of all HAVE FUN!
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1 year ago

Bruce LellmanA great adventure, Ron! I hate to tell you this but the polling says that there are a lot of people thinking you won't make it all the way. I'm not one of those people. Who are those people anyway? But it doesn't really matter because no matter what, it is still a great adventure and I'm sure you will have a great time. You have prepared well. I'm envious of your adventure and can't wait to read your journal.
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1 year ago

Ron SuchanekTo Gregory GarceauIt has and it will!!
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1 year ago

Ron SuchanekTo Bruce LellmanThe polling might be right, but I'm going to keep going to Antelope Wells or until it's no longer fun! Thanks
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1 year ago