Clearwater National Forest, Idaho and Lolo National Forest, Montana
Geri and I went to follow the Lewis and Clark route from Wagon Mountain to Lolo Pass on the Idaho-Montana border. With all the rain of the past week and overnight the forest was dripping wet. Every tree and bush we touched helped to soak through shoes and clothing. Geri was smart enough to wear her rain jacket so her upper body stayed dry. The water droplets on every needle of the pine trees did look like glistening stars, only wish I could have captured the beauty better with the camera.
In places the forest service has put up new markers along the trail route, Lewis and Clark Trail markers on one side and Nez Perce Nee-Me-Poo Trail markers on the opposite side of the trees. This section of the route does double duty.
Much of the route is overgrown and has plenty of downed trees, just as described in the Corps of Discoveries Journals. Makes one feel as if they are experiencing the trip with the explorers.
Geri took a few moments to enjoy the view looking to the south-west.
With the exception of the 2 lane highway and a small clearcut from logging in years gone by this is the same view that dashed the hopes of a quick water crossing to the Pacific side of the mountains. Pretty view though.
Near the top of Wagon Mountain many plants are showing red, giving their warning that winter is coming soon. I always think the colors are pretty, but know that they signal the end of summer.
Once back at the truck we had a great picnic lunch and even had time for a quick stop at Jacks Place for some adult beverage time. Good place to dry out some and enjoy the local mountains a bit longer.
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