Still hoping the weatherman was right we left the trailhead at the loop on Going to the Sun Road and headed down towards Packers Roost. The first creek fed waterfall was flowing again from all the rain. It had less water in it a month ago when I passed this way.
The trail up towards Flattop Mountain is through a burned over area from 12 years ago. The trees create a weird backdrop and when the wind picked up made for some strange sounds. While it didn't rain on us the clouds stayed low and hid all the views of the surrounding mountains. Colors sure stood out as some plants are changing into their fall variations.
We were not getting to where we were supposed to be for the night with the weather closing in along with darkness. While not what the park service wants us to do, safety dictated we find a mostly level spot and set up for the night. The trees did give some shelter from the weather but the rain still made it down to us.
In the morning we continued down towards where we should have been prior to going to Fifty Mountain for the night. Clouds continued to lighten up then thicken again. We went several hours with no rain. Made for dramatic views.
We went a bit off the trail to check out one of the bigger creeks in the valley. Red rock and clear water was a nice combination. Matt and Alex climbed out onto logs over the water. The logs show just how high the water is during the spring melt and runoff.
Heading into Fifty Mountain for the night the clouds lifted and some sun broke through. I hoped it was an omen of good things to come that night. I was wrong. But the respite made for a great picture of them heading into the camp area. Still could not see the mountains that cause it to be called 50 mountain.
We got camp set up and had dinner. Then it started to rain so our timing was good. Others were rolling into the camp area in the rain and were not as happy with setting up while their gear got wetter. Just after I took this photo it started to rain and soon it was raining hard with a strong wind. I actually was impressed with my tent as I stayed dry. My pack doesn't fit in with me and it is not a waterproof as the maker said.
The trail caused us to cross this water feature. The rain had it going full blast. I like how it just appears out of the side of the mountain. Must be one heck of a crack or tunnel to force all the water out right there. Someday I will have to explore it when it is flowing at a lot lower volume.
Started seeing some wildlife now that the sun was out. This female bighorn had a little one nearby but was not concerned by us at all. She knew we were not any kind of a threat to her and her little one. Saw a few more but at least they were on their feet when we were around.
Sections of the high line are a bit narrow, some who have a fear of heights don't do well on this trail. I think it is a blast.
The clouds were really starting to break up as the last few miles back to the trailhead and the plants really shone in the sunlight. We headed into Apgar campground for the night and had dinner at a small diner near the turn into the park at West Glacier. We used the dry tent that was in my truck. Worked out well.
No comments:
Post a Comment