I made a decision: the Bob Open next year will go from the Marias Pass rest area to the Monture Creek TH. The course area is restricted to public land in the contiguous Bob complex. As ever, no linear travel on paved roads is permitted. Everything else human-powered is fair game. Mass start date is a week late, May 31st, because my sister is getting married on the 24th and I get to do that.
My challenge to all you local lurkers is to not let crap weather or a fishing trip distract you. This is the year to come.
This route is a little over 80 straight-line miles. The previous two years have been closer to 50. I cannot think of any route which does not have at least one potentially sketchy river crossing, and the only routes which avoid all potential snow slogs are circuitous. That said, packrafting miles are not so easy to earn going south. To raft or not to raft will be a difficult question for all. There are also two completely distinct routes where bringing a mountain bike might not be totally irrational.
Next is likely the last year I’ll keep the event in the Bob itself. New terrain and challenges for everyone, myself included, is always necessary. A very snowy spring route in the Beartooths has appeal. The Selway-Frank complex must have enormous possibility, but I don’t yet know enough about it. Other areas, like the Missouri Breaks or Big/Little Belts are intriguing, but the non-roadless aspect will likely preclude them. I even think about taking it out of state.
I hope to see some of you in May next year.
Bedrock & Paradox 
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