Day 12. Rainy Day in Great Falls

In a sense, it was the perfect day for a day off. It has literally rained all day in Great Falls and it's not expected to quit until the morning.   So my thoughts of visiting the State Fair have "waned"......get it?   

I am certain you noted my reference to Gene Cummings, my brother-in-law, the last few days as the tour entered Montana.   This is where he spent his formative years and his mother lives here in Great Falls.   So I had a special treat by having lunch with Dorothy at Applebee's and then heading out on a tour of the Falls, Giant Springs, and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.   Just as importantly, she was able to give me some tips about the upcoming routes - do's and don'ts.  Speaking of which, I am really looking forward to having lunch in Fort Benton tomorrow.  She tells me that much of its historical importance is due to the fact it was the terminus of the steamboats up the Missouri River, making it a critically important trading post.  In short, she turned a dreary day in Great Falls, to quite a pleasant afternoon.  Thanks you very much.  

Of the sites, the Giant Springs was quite impressive.  It pumps out 156 million gallons of 54 degree water each day.  The spring has a body of water, the Roe River, connecting it to the Missouri River.  At 201 feet, the Roe is one of this smallest rivers in the world.  Dorothy tells me that a local grade school class worked hard and petitioned to have that connecting stream given a name. They were successful and ultimately it appeared in the Guinness Record Book.  

The Interpretive Center is a must see if you are here. It is a labyrinth that tells the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition.  The exhibits, both interactive and static, give an impressive account of their journey, including portage challenges along with their interactions and reliance on the various tribes they encountered.  

After an enjoyable rest day, it is off to Geraldine, MT tomorrow night.  With the population of about 120, I will be camping in the city park.  I called ahead today to confirm that was ok, they said...."sure".  

Pandora mix.  Creedence Clearwater Revival: "Have you ever seen the rain",  Eric Clapton: "Let it Rain".