DAY 16

June 18, 2015

Day 16.

The Pedaling Priest is feeling good having ridden with a tailwind all day! The reward? A smothered burrito.

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Jun 18, 2015

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DAY 15

June 17, 2015

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Jun 17, 2015

Fr. Cory Sticha

Jun 17, 2015

Fr. Cory Sticha, the Pastor of Saint Mary Parish in Malta. Montana. Thank you for your warm welcome.

Jun 17, 2015

High Plains of Montana

Jun 17, 2015

The high plains of Montana. This photograph is taken to the west of the town of Malta.

Jun 17, 2015

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DAY 14

June 16, 2015

Day 14.

Our Pedaling Priest stumbles upon an old Catholic Church with a unique story behind it.

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Jun 16, 2015

Jesuit Mission Church

Jun 16, 2015

The Jesuit Mission Church on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation east of Harlem, Montana. Silent testimony to the generations of faithful Jesuit missionaries who served throughout the American and Canadian northwest.

Jun 16, 2015

The Montana Big Sky Country

Jun 16, 2015

A flock of sheep without a shepherd

Jun 16, 2015

(at least there wasn't one in sight that I could see).

Jun 16, 2015

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DAY 13

June 15, 2015

Day 13.

127 miles later The Pedaling Priest finds a hotel to stay in for the night. This will be the first of many 120+ mile days according to his brother and navigator, Greg. Now it's off to a big dinner and bed for this tired priest!

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DAY 12

June 15, 2015

Day 12.

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DAY 11

June 13, 2015

Day 11.

The Pedaling Priest gives us a bit of trivia as he prepares for the days ahead.

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Jun 15, 2015

Glacier National Park

Jun 15, 2015

Glacier National Park is famous for its Going to the Sun Highway. I wasn't able to travel this route as it will be a few days until it opens for the summer.

Jun 15, 2015

Jun 13, 2015

The Rocky Mountains gradually recede as I travel out into the Great Plains

Jun 13, 2015

Jun 15, 2015

Jun 13, 2015

Marias Pass

Jun 13, 2015

Marias Pass - A watershed moment on my trip (sorry for the unfortunate pun). Pour a glass of water on the west side of this continental divide and it will eventually end up in the Pacific Ocean, do the same thing a few steps to the east and it will flow into the Atlantic.

Jun 13, 2015

Camp Disappointment

Jun 13, 2015

This monument marks the spot where Captain Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition discovered in 1806 that the headwaters of the Marias River lay to the west instead of the north as he and his party had hoped. If the geography had been different, the 49th latitude border between Canada and the United States would be further to the north.

Jun 13, 2015

The Blackfeet Indian Nation

Jun 13, 2015

I spent much of the afternoon traveling through Blackfeet territory, one of the great tribes of the American plains.

Jun 13, 2015

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DAY 10

June 12, 2015

Day 10.

Father Hilton relaxes poolside on a rest day and waits for his bike part to come in.

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Jun 12, 2015

Saint Matthew Catholic Church in Kalispell, Montana.

Jun 12, 2015

Dedicated in 1910 and very imposing.

Jun 12, 2015

Time for a haircut

Jun 12, 2015

I was getting a bit shaggy, so Jewel took care of me with a great haircut. She has three young children and is planning to homeschool them in order to give to them every blessing she can.

Jun 12, 2015

Saint Richard Catholic Church in Columbia Falls, Montana

Jun 12, 2015

I stopped by the parish office to say hello and was warmly greeted Ethan who is four years old. His grandmother, Coleen Konopatzke, has served her beloved parish community for many years. Fr. John Miller is the pastor and we were fellow students together at Saint Thomas Seminary in Denver from 1974 to 1978. What a blessing to catch up with him, to see him happy in his life as a priest and filled with many blessings from God.

Jun 12, 2015

Don and Judy Landers

Jun 12, 2015

I had my first break down today right after saying farewell to Fr. Miller. One of the spokes that holds the rear wheel together snapped with a loud ping, making the bicycle all but unridable. Some things I can fix but a broken spoke isn't one of them. It was a blessing that I'd traveled only twenty miles from Kalispell where there's a good bike shop that can get me back on the road sometime tomorrow morning.

It was an even greater blessing to met Don and Judy Landers.

Knowing that I needed a way to get back to Kalispell, I realized that I had no choice other than to beg for a ride and hope that someone would eventually have mercy on me. I can't begin to tell you how many years it's been since I've tried hitchhiking and wasn't very happy at all about giving it a try. Don and Judy had just filled up their motor home with gas and were ready to continue their journey. Judy gave me a wave from her passenger seat which gave me the courage to wave in return. As she opened her door to see if I needed any help, I told her and her husband of my problem and they immediately offered to to give me a ride. Where were they going? To Kalispell!

They invited me to dinner and we just said goodnight after a most enjoyable evening with new friends. God really does provide, all we have to do is to learn to trust.

Jun 12, 2015

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Day 9

June 11, 2015

Day 9.

My 90 mile journey for the day is almost complete! I feel very grateful for this gorgeous state of Montana. The rolling mountains and hills are simply breath taking. It's hard to believe that I have already made it 600 miles! Tomorrow I will be heading to Glacier National Park. I cant wait to continue traveling through this amazing state.

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Jun 11, 2015

Lilac Sunday at Saint Mary's in Aspen

Jun 11, 2015

Last Sunday, as we all know, the Church celebrated the Solemnity of Corpus Christi. In addition to this feast in honor of the precious Body and Blood of Christ, Saint Mary's also celebrated "Lilac Sunday" which has been observed at our parish in Aspen back to a time beyond which anyone can recall.

Saint Mary's is situated on Main Street in the heart of the historic downtown and is well known for the massive Lilac bushes that have formed a hedge around our grounds for the past hundred years or so. In early June each year when they reach their full bloom our parishioners arrange large bouquets to decorate our beautiful high altar.

Jun 11, 2015

... and speaking of flowers ...

Jun 11, 2015

The Crismore's garden caught my eye as I was cycling along Highway 20 and thought I'd share it with you

Jun 11, 2015

Loon Lake

Jun 11, 2015

I passed more lakes today than I could possibly count but this one stood out for a couple of reasons and the first of those reasons is the name which reminded me of a conversation that I had yesterday with an elderly gentleman who lives in these parts. He saw my cycling clothes and asked where I was heading off to dressed in such an outlandish get-up. I told him that I had started my journey in Anacortes and wouldn't finish until I reached the Atlantic Ocean in Maine after traveling 3,600 miles. He turned to walk away, shaking his head and saying; "You're crazy." The name of this lake reminded me of his opinion, which a number of you probably share.

Jun 11, 2015

The Kickin' Horse Saloon and Eatery

Jun 11, 2015

When discussing today's route with a local who lives in Libby, he told me to be sure to stop for lunch at the Kickin' Horse Saloon and Eatery. He had two reasons for recommending the place, first of all, they're famous for their hamburgers which you already know I'm partial to. The second reason? To his knowledge it's the only eating establishment open on the entire 90 mile stretch of highway between Libby and Kalispell. You can imaging my dismay when I, with five hours of hard riding under my belt, found the place closed for business. Food gone and water running low, I did find another restaurant where a nice lady fixed me a Roast Beef sandwich that held body and soul together until reaching Kalispell.

Jun 11, 2015

They grow Big Fish in These Parts!

Jun 11, 2015

The Kootenai River country is famous for its world-class fishing but this lure is going a bit overboard. It's certainly more than big enough to catch that priest's bicycle as well as the priest who's riding it.

Jun 11, 2015

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Day 8

June 10, 2015

Day 8.

Hello from Libby, Montana! I will be traveling 700 miles through this beautiful state. It's looking like it will take me about nine days. I am looking forward to continuing my journey and meeting new people along the way! I will talk to you all tomorrow and thank you for all of the support.

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Jun 10, 2015

The Kootenai River at Bonners Ferry, Idaho

Jun 10, 2015

The town of Bonners Ferry was founded near the site of Edwin Bonner's trading post and ferry that serviced the thousands of prospectors traveling the Wildhorse Trail in the nineteenth century.

After bicycling through miles of seemingly endless Evergreen forests and towering mountain peaks, there's something quite welcoming about returning to towns like this, perhaps it's the promise of a good night's sleep, a good dinner and, most especially, good conversation with another person that brings a welcome respite to the solitude.

Jun 10, 2015

Montana!

Jun 10, 2015

About mid-way through the day's journey, I entered into the great State of Montana. It's certainly great in terms of size as it will take about nine days and over 700 miles to cross the state from west to east. The western area continues the mountains and forests of Washington and Idaho that come at last to an end shortly after crossing the Rocky Mountains at Glacier National Park. The eastern half of the state will introduce me to the vast expanses of the Great Plains that will take weeks to cross.

Jun 10, 2015

The Kootenai River in Montana

Jun 10, 2015

Awaiting me in the coming days are the mountains raising up to the east and still capped with last winter's snow

Jun 10, 2015

The Kootenai Falls

Jun 10, 2015

These falls were revered by the Native Americans of the area and are certainly awesome in their beauty and sheer power. One hears the roar of falling water from a great distance away.

Jun 10, 2015

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Day 7

June 9, 2015

Day 7.

I made it to Idaho! I spent a lot time riding next to the Priest River, named after the early Jesuites. It is so amazing that I was able to spend time in an area with such a deep religious history. I arrived in Bonners Ferry where I will spend the night. I've met some new amazing people and can't wait to continue my journey. More from the road tomorrow!

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Jun 9, 2015

Welcome to Idaho

Jun 9, 2015

Entering Idaho, the second state of my journey!

Jun 9, 2015

The Priest River

Jun 9, 2015

Cycling along the Priest River in the early morning light east of the Town of Newport. The river is named in honor of the Jesuit priests who evangelized the Kalispel Indians and were known by them as "The Blackrobes."

Jun 9, 2015

The Priest River cont.

Jun 9, 2015

I am traveling through the lands where Fr. De Smet lived, worked and celebrated the sacraments

Jun 9, 2015

Amazing Town

Jun 9, 2015

Entering the Town of Priest River. I love the name of this town, but I suppose that I'm biased.

Jun 9, 2015

Making Friends

Jun 9, 2015

Between the Towns of Priest River and Sandpoint, I met Michele who is from the Lombard region of Italy and is traveling by bike for five months through Canada and the western United States. He will be getting married next year to his beloved Francesca and I told him that we'd keep him in our prayers for a happy and holy marriage.

Jun 9, 2015

Making Friends cont.

Jun 9, 2015

He was quite surprised to meet a priest cycling across the United States and didn't think that such a thing would happen in Italy (not that it happens very often here either). He believes that priests must be more open and creative in the ways they evangelize, especially among the young.

Jun 9, 2015

Bonners Ferry

Jun 9, 2015

Approaching the journey's end and the Town of Bonners Ferry. The endless forests of the American Northwest

Jun 9, 2015

Helping Hands

Jun 9, 2015

My shoes are squeezing my toes and have been causing a good deal of pain lately. I discovered that there's a bootmaker in Bonners Ferry and went to see him this afternoon to see if he could help me out. He has a workshop in an old building alongside the county fair grounds that smells of leather and of times long past.

Jun 9, 2015

Helping Hangs cont.

Jun 9, 2015

Thad has been making not only cowboy boots but footwear of all types for over a quarter century and has a apprentice who helps him by the name of Heather. As a young man he was part of a evangelization team that traveled throughout the Country preaching the Gospel to any who would listen. He eventually fell in love with the piano player who was part of the music team, married her over forty years ago and settled down to raise a family.

He stretched my shoes and got this traveling priest back on the road.

Jun 9, 2015

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DAY 6

June 8, 2015

Day 6.

Newport Washington near the boarder of Idaho.

I left this morning from Beaver Lodge and have been riding along the beautiful Pend Oreille River. I am now in Newport Washington right on the boarder of Idaho. I was thinking to my self "How many pedal strokes will it take for me to go from coast to coast?" I calculated that it will take roughly 2 million! Thats a lot of pedaling. Doing it for such a great cause makes every pedal stroke worth it.

I will be traveling to Bonners Ferry on Monday, June 8th which is about 60 miles and then on Tuesday I will be traveling to Libby Montana which is 50 miles. I would like to go longer distances but with so few town in-between it makes it difficult. Once I make it to Libby Montana I will be heading to Kalispell Montana and then off to East Glacier Lake which will be right around 90 miles. I will keep you all in my prayers! More from the road coming tomorrow. God bless.

Pend Oreille River

I had the pleasure to ride along the Pend Oreille River. It is incredibly beautiful and made the ride very enjoyable.

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DAY 5

June 7, 2015

Day Five - Republic to Beaver Lodge near the Pend Orielle River.

For the past few days I've been looking forward to catching sight of the mighty Columbia River which I haven't seen since a childhood camping trip taken with dad, mom and a car load of brothers and sisters. After a white-knuckle descent down Sherman Pass on Highway 20 the River came into view and I crossed on a narrow bridge that had me looking back with some anxiety for cars bearing down on me from behind.

To the east of the Columbia is the town of Kettle Falls where I experienced a most unexpected welcome.

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Columbia River

For the past few days I've been looking forward to catching sight of the mighty Columbia River which I haven't seen since a childhood camping trip taken with dad, mom and a car load of brothers and sisters. After a white-knuckle descent down Sherman Pass on Highway 20 the River came into view and I crossed on a narrow bridge that had me looking back with some anxiety for cars bearing down on me from behind.

Sandy's

On the outskirts of town I stopped at Sandy's Drive In where I had my first (but not last) cheeseburger and vanilla shake of the trip. What would a bike ride across the Country be without deluxe Cheeseburgers to fuel the way? Brianna took my order and after a short time brought lunch with a great smile.

Pedaling Priest Fans

Once in town I looked for a pharmacy in order to buy sunscreen. Having Irish skin I'll be slathering on lots of the stuff over the course of the trip and had used up the last of my limited supply. As I leaned my bike against the store front a woman came up to me and excitedly asked, "Are you the Pedaling Priest?" Surprised, I told her that I was and she replied, "My friend told me about you!" At that moment, her friend Mary who works in the pharmacy came out of the store and greeted me as though we'd been friends for years.

Mary

Farm Country "Shortcut"

Passing through the town of Colville, I took a wrong turn and before I knew it was heading south instead of east. Pulling out my handy dandy electronic map, I figured out a shortcut back to the intended route. Like many such "shortcuts," this one quickly went astray and led me into some beautiful but very hilly farm country and miles out of my way. Highway 20 eventually came into sight after stopping to take a picture of this dilapidated barn that's seen better days.

Crystal Falls

Stopped to have a snack at Crystal Falls shortly before reaching the Beaver Lodge where I spent the night.

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DAY 4

June 5, 2015

DAY 4.

Heeding the advice of his little brother, The Pedaling Priest stands in front of the highest point in the town of Republic Washington, Church of the Immaculate Conception. The Pedaling Priest describes the work he has ahead of him both on the road and in the Catholic Church.

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DAY 3

June 4, 2015

DAY 3.

Loup Loup Pass. Elevation, 4020. Things are looking up for The Pedaling Priest - the sun is out, it's warmer, and best of all today is a much easier climbing day! 40 miles down and 20 more to go. The Pedaling Priest is not the only solo cross-country cyclist on these roads. Others share their stories with him and Fr. Hilton looks forward to the journey ahead...

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Packing Light

Some of you are wondering how I'm able to fit a full Mass kit, vestments and all, into such small bike bags and have any room left over for necessary things such as clothing and a spare tire. It took a bit of doing, but I've managed to fit everything needed for the Holy Mass into a space no larger than 3" x 3" x 2".

This photo was taken after Mass this morning in Mazama, Washington. The silver chalice comes from a sick call set given by an old friend and is slightly over 2" in height, the patin is equally tiny at about an inch in diameter. The altar crucifix is is taken from a rosary given by my mother before her death.

The vestments you see draped over a chair represented the greatest challenge because those you see in church are almost always so bulky that a single set would fill my entire pack. The solution? I made my own. They're constructed of the same nylon used for ultralight tents and sleeping bags, weigh a fraction of an ounce and fold down into almost nothing. I'd never use them in church but for the purposes of saving space the alb, stole and chasuble are perfect.

Friends From The Road

I met each of these cross country cyclists on the long climb up Rainy Pass. We introduced ourselves and encouraged each other during the seemingly endless climb. Seeing them gathered in Winthrop the next morning, I stopped to talk. It doesn't take long to realize that a special bond develops among those on the road.

Bad Bearing

Going up Rainy Pass, one of the bike bearings began to make a grinding noise that repeated with alarming regularity with every pedal stroke. It doesn't take long at all for a bad bearing to bring a trip to a "grinding" halt. Trying not to worry, I put the situation into the good Lord's hands. The next morning I heard from a fellow traveler about a great bike shop not far down the road in the Town of Winthrop. Dave at Methow Cycles had the parts and quickly got me back on the road. In this photo he's giving my bike back to me all ready for the many miles to come. Thank you, Dave!

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Day 2

June 4, 2015

DAY 2.

Where there's an uphill there's a downhill, right? WRONG. Over 40+ miles of climbing up Rainy Pass elevation 4855 today. Just when Fr. Hilton thought it was over he approached his long-awaited descent only to find out it was a 1-mile quick teaser before the next big climb straight up Washington Pass, elevation 5477. Cramps ensue and the Pedaling Priest is ready for a meal and some rest!

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Jun 4, 2015

Washington Pass Summit

Jun 4, 2015

Day 2: The summit of Washington Pass. What a relief to reach the top after 40 miles of climbing! More difficult than Independence Pass back home that tops out at over 12,000 feet

Jun 4, 2015

The Cascades

Jun 4, 2015

Day 2: The Cascades. Water and lush greenery wherever I look.

Jun 4, 2015

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DAY 1

June 2, 2015

Day 1. The first 60 miles are now complete. Only 3,600 more to go! Father Hilton ends his first day with lots of rain yet upbeat spirits and a positive outlook.

HELLO FROM ANACORTES!

I flew from Denver to Seattle yesterday morning, loaded my crated bike and gear into a rental car and for two hours drove through the rain to the resort town of Anacortes and the gateway to San Juan Islands National Park. I pray the rain isn't a sign of things to come!

Bill and Cindy Mahre are old friends who live in Yakima and they drove all the way to help launch me on my adventure. Thanks Bill and Cindy! Yesterday afternoon we assembled my bike and then had a wonderful seafood dinner together overlooking the harbor and watching the boats come and go. Quite a change of scenery for a Colorado boy used to the mountains.

We also checked out the beach where I'll this morning dip the wheel of my bike into the surf. I don't know who started it, but it's an old tradition for cyclists crossing the Country to start their trip with the rear wheel in the Pacific and end with the front in the Atlantic. I love tradition, so what better way to begin.

There's a Catholic church here in town that's absolutely beautiful. I met some of the parishioners yesterday and they welcomed the pastor of Saint Mary's in Aspen to their community of Saint Mary's in Anacortes. They're meeting me at the beach at 8:00 this morning in order to send me off with their love and prayers. What a great way to start a journey!

Speaking of starting. Time to pack my bags and head to the the beach ....

Love,
Fr. John Hilton

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Church of Saint Mary in Anacortes, WA

Day 1: The Church of Saint Mary in Anacortes. An absolutely beautiful restoration completed in 2005.

Cascadian Countryside

Day 1: The Cascadian country of western Washington.

Birdsview Pass

Day 1: Birdsview Pass, elevation 201. Slightly lower altitude than Aspen which is 7,908 feet. There will be quite the dramatic change to come over the next 24 hours, though!

From The Road: Day 1

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Fr. Hilton Welcomes You

May 25, 2015

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Farewell Festival

May 24, 2015

Sending Fr. Hilton off on his epic journey across the US in true Aspen style, St Mary Church of Aspen hosted a community bike-ride and Farewell Festival on May 23, 2015.