CDT Day 111: Peat Creek Divide & Stampede

Daily Miles: 15.8, Total Miles: 1,956.2

Just after heading out this morning, I found Glen just behind me. He explained that he had a history of heart problems including bypass surgery. He had pain and tightness in his chest and was uncomfortable continuing south. Needless to say, I was very concerned about Glen and we hiked together for the next 16 miles to the highway.

Except for the downfall, a pleasant hike today for four miles to Peat Creek Divide, then a steep climb along the ID/MT border.

We turned onto a dirt road for eight miles downhill to the I-15 crossing. Had a nice chat with an extended family on ATV’s and dirt bikes that graciously shared cold water. We also met a guy that works for a government sheep station who asked if we had seen any wolves. They had just lost ten sheep to a wolfpack. No wolves for me, but I did surprise one of the biggest bucks I have ever seen. I myself was startled by several grouse. They waited until I was on top of them before noisily fluttering away.

About four miles out. we took a break at a small creek crossing the road. We could see and hear a large cowherd below us being rounded up by several cowboys and one cowgirl. After loud bellowing, hooting and hollering, the whole herd crested the hill right in front of us. The cows started to split up and as we stood to make an exit and then all hell broke loose. Cows went in all directions and we froze while watching the cowhands expertly get all the stragglers under control. This was the first and probably the last stampede I have started.

As we arrived at the highway, a thunderstorm rolling in. Mike from the Mountain View Motel in Lima was just arriving – perfect timing!

Glen did fine on his return trip and I enjoyed his company. Obviously, he was disappointed in ending his hike but he made the right choice in not ignoring the signs.