From Alaska to Argentina: Ferrero makes a stop in Whitehall

When Kevin Ferrero was an eight-year-old in France he was inspired by his older brother's four-year bike journey from Alaska to Argentina. Now in his 20's, Ferrero is now making the trip on his own and recently stopped in Montana as part of his journey to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world.

Ferrero started what will be around an 18,000-mile trip in June of 2017 and has traveled back home to France when the weather has been too bad to ride. He made his way to Montana over two weeks ago and while in Whitehall was staying with Steve and Judy Schwab.

Steve said his friend in Missoula had met Ferrero and eventually the couple invited him to stay. During this time, Steve said Ferrero has been working hard helping with construction and French drain work, mowing the lawn, and volunteering at the Whitehall Community Library.

Ferrero said he has enjoyed the work and likes to stay busy when he is not on the road.

Steve said everyone has been impressed with the work ethic of Ferrero, something you don't always see from younger people.

Ferrero likes to go from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and travel 50 to 60 miles a day while on the road, but sometimes he is not feeling up to a longer ride and will keep his travels to around 20.

Among the 120 pounds of items he brings are a mattress, stove, and his clothes. He has also brought a guitar along the journey.

"It makes me very happy," he said.

He will also stop every two to three days at a visitor center or library to use their wi-fi to connect with family and friends in France.

So far, the favorite part of his journey has been his time in Colville, Washington adding he has also really enjoyed Alaska and Montana..

He also spent six months in Canada volunteering at a sled dog kennel something he found very rewarding. Looking to the future, this will not be the last long trip for Ferrero.

"I'm attracted by Mongolia. I would like to do that," he said.