I finished today in the town of Saratogo, Wyoming. The city has many sulfur hot springs along the Platte River, one of which is walled off as a public hot tub the size of a swimming pool. The water cycles through every four hours and is a comfortable 110 degrees. I would never have gotten out if it were not for approaching thunder.
During the afternoon I was racing storms to finish today's ride. As the idea of a campground along the city reservoir sounded a bit wet (i.e. no cover), I stopped at the city museum to ask if I could camp under their gazebo. When I walked in the group of fifteen women became immediately silent and stared up at me blankly. Finally one of them said no, but to come back later. After a quick lunch, I returned to find her and a friend alone in the building. They were very friendly, informed me that I could camp (but some of the other ladies didn't like it,) and explained some of the towns history. Until recently, the main industry here was lumber. However, the mill closed six years ago, the Union Pacific closed the rail line, and the town has instead thrived on tourism. During the winter this is one of the best places for snow-mobiling and bathing in sulfur springs. This is a place I will be coming back to!
No comments:
Post a Comment