Lolo Pass Recreation Area and Glade Creek

Clearwater National Forest, Idaho

Christmas morning welcomed us with plenty of snow and the first blue skies in over week. Presents were all opened so Geri Lynn and I thought we would spend time together in the mountains. We had a blast but were not the only ones with this idea. The parking area was full as snowshoers and X-country skiers were out in force. Looked like some were trying out Christmas presents just opened earlier today from how shiny their gear was.

The snow on the top layer was light with lots of crystallization. It let you sink in some as we traveled on it but with the abundant sunshine it really sparkled. Really pretty conditions to be out in the mountains. Couldn't get a picture that did justice to the beauty of it…this one taken by Geri Lynn came the closest.

Once we got to the high point of the ridge the view was just wonderful. The peak barely showing in the distance is calling to me to go climb it. That is once I figure out just which of the Bitterroot peaks it is.

After working our way down into the valley we were at Glade creek, where Lewis and Clark stayed both while going west, and on the way back east. They didn't get to see it with all the snowlike we did. As you can see we have lots of snow already and months more for it to build deeper. Lots of things we could have done on Christmas day, but I think this one was about the best.