Day 13: Twin Bridges to Ennis, MT

Distance: 44.2 miles

Elevation: +2408 / -2094

Temperature: 85 degrees

Today we rolled out of Ennis and headed to mining country.

The valley we rode through was literally turned upside down by miners panning for gold, even though garnets seem to be the most common gemstone found here. Consequently, huge piles of rock line the valley, evidence of the operations of more than 100 years ago.

So important was mining to this area, that several settlements developed along the route, including Nevada City and Virginia City. This stretch was well known for “vigilantes” who controlled this area.

Nevada City is a curated town of old west buildings that include interpretive tours to better understand the time period. Be sure to have them explain to you the “War of Northern Aggression” that was only about taxation. Huh. Glad I didn’t pay for the tour. But, saddened with the lack of historical understanding of the Civil War in an area that did not exist as a state until 24 years after the Civil War ended.

From there we moved on to Virginia City, another town that boomed when mining was big in the area. The sign says it all, and seems to be as true today as it was in the 1800’s:

From Virginia City, we climbed the pass out of one valley and into another. It was a long climb, and the heat had increased by the time we headed up, making it a challenging trek. The views from the top didn’t disappoint, and we’re happy to have John SAGing for us and ready with cold water and ice in the heat!

The rest was down hill and spectacular, as we made our way into Ennis.

Highlights:

1 Beautiful vistas, especially the incredible downhill into the valley.

2. Having a chance to linger in some places, rather than rushing to get to the next stop.

3. Prairie dogs

4. Cows that are always happy to say hello

5. Great bird life to see along the way, such as osprey and sand cranes,

Lowlights:

1 Revisionist history