Robert Stuart Trail 1812 — 1813

Day 12: August 23rd, 2007 Rapid City — Bozeman

Even while being close to the Interstate, I was able to sleep very well. During check–out I ask for a nice breakfast restaurant. And of course I want one where also the locals go to. They recommend the Morning Side Cafe and this is really not a tourist location. Additionally, they have one of the best coffee services I have ever received! This is definitely a place to remember!

I–90, SD

Then I continue to a gas station. Unfortunately the printer at the pump is out of paper. So I must go inside to get a receipt there. Around nine I am back on the road again. Today I must go almost 500 miles, but the weather is nice! In the morning we only have around 50 degrees. But during the day it warms up to comfortable 75 degrees.

I–90, State Line SD and WY

I–90, WY

I–90, WY

While driving I have the chance to listen to a very interesting conversation between a pilot car and a trucker. This gives me the chance to learn a bit about a pilot car company work and all their issues with signs, lighting, paperwork and permits. Usually you don’t realize what is all involved in this job. Somewhere down the road I start to loose them on CB…

I–90, State Line WY and MT

I–90, MT

I–90, MT

Around half past two I stop for a brief lunch break. However, this rest area is not really nice and I am glad, when I am back on the road again. I make really good miles and arrive in the area of Bozeman already around half past five!

Nevertheless, I stop and start looking for a room. Just before my planned Interstate exit, a bigger accident has happened and it takes a while until I arrive. To my surprise, they only have big rooms and suites free at the Microtel Inn! At the Super 8 they also only have the handicapped room available. But they are happy to give this one to me.

First I check my video taping of today. My camera stopped recording two times with an error. But to my surprise, the recordings have no issues.

Then I drive to a nearby Wal–Mart to buy a whole bunch of CDs. All in all you don’t have sales taxes in Montana! Then I continue to the Outback Steakhouse — which I almost was not able to find! After searching around for a long time and hitting heavy rain, I stop at a sports wear shop. They are able to give me the directions. However, I almost miss again the desired exit. But eventually I find this well hidden Outback Steakhouse.

Around a quarter past nine I pay and drive back to my motel. It has pretty much cooled down and we only have around 50 degrees now. Around half past nine I arrive at the motel and start to listen to my first CDs while I do my bookkeeping…