Rocky Mountain Oysters

I did some research and discovered a tiny off the beaten track place called Rock Creek Lodge in Clinton, Montana. It hosts the annual "Testical Festival" - a tribute to the Rocky Mountain Oysters they make. The festival took place earlier this summer, but I decided to stop anyway and try some local cuisine. That's right, as my mom said growing up "don't say you don't like something until you try it." Unfortunately when I pulled in they weren't open!! Sadly I had to go on as there wasn't even a sign as to their hours. Maybe next time.

My First Stetson

For the drive through Wyoming and Montana I figured I needed a cowboy hat. It just seemed fitting. So I stopped and got my first Stetson - a straw one. Certainly makes driving around with the windows open a lot more fun!

The Red Light District - Wallace, Idaho

After leaving the Rock Creek Lodge I crossed into Idaho and pulled over so I could stand on the border - one foot in the past and one in the future (it's the time zone line!)

I next stopped in the tiny historic mountain town of Wallace. Apparently it also is home to the center of the universe. On the main drag there are signs pointing down labeled for the center of the universe and in the middle of the street there's a marker saying center of the universe.

I stopped for lunch at the Smokehouse and finally got my bison burger... in Idaho of all places. I also had some tater salad - presumably with idaho's own spuds.

After lunch I walked around a bit. Turns out the town has a two block red light district (not currently operational) - it apparently used to be a frequent stop for the area miners. 

Cute little town... you can literally stand in the middle of town and see both ends!

Living it Up in Livingston

After exiting Yellowstone as the sun was going down and heading towards I-90 I decided it was best to grab some dinner (more on Yellowstone later - it's a long post.) Montana's Rib & Chop House sounded just right and was packed! I was lucky to grab a seat at the bar. The gentlemen next to me were decked out in pure western wear... including cowboy hats and western shirts. I was hoping to order a bison burger (after all, I'd spent all afternoon looking at bison in the park!) Unfortunately they didn't have it on the menu. They did have some good Montana microbrews on tap though!

The cowboys commented to themselves they wouldn't have a seat at the bar for their friend. I overheard and asked if they wanted me to slide down a seat. I did and they then proceeded to tell me how I'd really like their friend, how he was really good looking, etc. I laughed and said "I'm not from around here." That got us talking. Soon the friend showed up and the four of us talked and ate for about two hours on everything from what to see and do in Montana to gun control laws and hunting to the best fly fishing to lawyers in Montana and a federal judge the cowboys weren't too pleased with. It was a fun evening and it was great to talk with some locals. Apparently Livingston and it's neighboring towns are home to a bunch of celebrities - including John Mayer. The cowboys said everyone who passes through winds up staying awhile or returning.  It definitely is a gorgeous place.

When I asked where I could get a bison burger I was told the best place was Ted's Montana Grill. I had to laugh. They told me Ted Turner owns a ton of acres and raises Bison. I laughed and told them I'm from Georgia and have actually been to his restaurant there. I was hoping for a local joint!

All in all, a great night in Livingston!

On the road to Yellowstone

On the way to Yellowstone I stopped to take in some of Wyoming's scenic views. This was right by a dam. The water was a greenish blue color that reminded me of the Caribbean!

Beer before Bears

Before heading into Yellowstone (ie bear country) I stopped in the last sign of civilization - Cody, Wyoming. I fueled up again (only had to buy 4 gallons, but again, I'm paranoid about running out in the no cell phone zones.) Then while driving down the road I saw a sign for "Pat O'Hara Brewing Company." I quickly did a u turn and went in to sample some beers and get a cup of green chili. The sample came in the cutest shot glass sized mug. So cute I had to ask for one as a souvenir.

Turns out the brewery only opened in July! I went with a glass of their Amber Ale and am seriously considering buying a growler for the road.

Turns out the Rodeo will be taking place tonight in Cody... We'll see how the day goes and whether I end up here or on the northern side of Yellowstone tonight.

Had a great time talking with the bar tenders at the brewery. Here I thought no other place other than the South had great hospitality. Turns out these Western states are pretty hospitable!

Deer in the Headlights!

Driving along through Wyoming in the Bighorn national park I was busy paying attention to the scenery (and trying not to get car sick even while driving). I hit a flat stretch and saw a sign that warned of stock roaming free. So I was on the lookout for a cow crossing and all of a sudden saw a BIG deer in the road. I SLAMMED on my brakes and there it stood just looking at me. My heart was pounding since I'd nearly hit it.  Luckily after inching forward a bit with the car it bolted.

Enjoyed the scenic drive and stopped at a falls along the way to enjoy the view. Also stopped at Dirty Annies for a milkshake!

The forest fire threat today is VERY HIGH. Let's hope I don't encounter any!