Blue Mountain Summit

Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail, Lolo National Forest, Montana

A really nice morning here in western Montana. I just had to get out for a little mountain time. Blue Mountain is the closest mountain to my house so that's where I went. Had to suffer through lots of flowers in bloom all along the route. The meadows along the way were really a riot of color. Took lots of flower pictures today. This is a sample of what I saw.

Except for a few fresh blow downs near the summit area the trail was in great shape.

At the summit is a fire lookout that only gets used in emergencies. Mostly when there is a nearby fire. It needs a little care but is really still solid.

On the east end of the summit ridge is a small observatory for the University of Montana. I would love to get to look through it sometime. Maybe when the eclipse happens this summer it will be open to the public.

Saw lots of birds, but this was the only 4 legged friend. I think he wanted my snack, but he was unlucky with me today. He did hang out with me the whole time I sat on the rock. Made the hike and summit a bit friendlier.