First and foremost, I am a mom to Landon Brown (Young Back) and Carver (not interested in guiding…yet). My husband Jeff and I met in high school and have been married and growing up together since 2002. We raised our boys in the Flathead, usually while building our own home or planning our next move. During the school year, you can find me in Whitefish, MT, where I am Mrs. Brown, the 2nd grade teacher.
Living an outdoor active life has been a game changer! While living in my hometown of Whitefish has many perks, the long gray winters take a toll. So, in 2013, my husband and I moved our family of 4 to Maui to escape the cold, gray winters. While we could ride bikes and play in the sun and ocean daily, we unknowingly missed so many things about Montana (even winter) that our hearts wouldn’t settle into the island way of living. So, once again, we packed up and returned to the place we said we would not come back to, and we are so happy we did. We quickly acquired uphill ski gear and lots of bikes and learned to go outside in all weather. Not only are we much fitter, but we are also happier, more connected to our community, and have gained friendships that feel like home.
Riding bikes has always had a special place in my heart. With years of inspiration, wisdom, and hand-me-downs from my brother, Brendan Halpin (Director of Trips), I have made riding bikes a way of life for my family and me. When our oldest son, Landon, began guiding at 15, we couldn’t have been prouder. Watching Brendan and Landon work together in this business has been an inspiration. When it dawned on me that I, too, could become a guide, I couldn’t wait to get started. The Cycling House is family, and it feels like a dream to make it official.
What's the best thing about working at The Cycling House?
Working at The Cycling House makes me feel like I am living life to the fullest. I love being fully immersed in the energy and excitement of it all- they love to dance long into the night- how can you beat that? I love getting to know people, hearing their stories, and forming new relationships with people from all over the country- both guests and staff. I feel like I am getting to rewrite a part of my life that I once wished I could be a part of, but wasn’t ready to until now. TCH is family and I wanted a seat at the table!
Do you have a favorite ride?
I have so many favorites! When Landon was little he use to say “This is the best day ever!” just about everyday. I feel that way about so many rides. But, if I had to pick, I do love a good Canyon Creek up to Big Mountain day. The best part being that it is right out my door. Last summer, I was nicknamed the “Canyon Creek Queen” because I brought 3 different groups of friends on the route who had not yet been all in a week. I love a good hike-a-bike and the ant hill never disappoints!
What is the most memorable day you've had on the bike?
I am going to have to say our family bike trip from Lake McDonald to East Glacier. Landon, 16 at the time, was our guide and Jeff and I were following his lead. It was the first overnight bike trip for Jeff and I, my longest ever ride, and my first time on Going to the Sun with cars. I was freaking out a bit. Minus a little wheelie mishap at 6 miles in, Lando was a superb guide. He and Jeff made sure to help me feel safe and always have a wheel to follow. We had a grand time biking over Looking Glass Pass and the winding road into East Glacier. We stayed the night in the East Glacier Hotel and set off back to Lake McDonald in the morning. It was a bike ride I will remember forever because it was an opportunity to witness Landon showing his compassion for us, his parents, and his passion for cycling and guiding. #proudparentmoment
