Glacier National Park, and Great Bear Wilderness, Flathead National Forest, Montana
Up with the sun and off to see how the trail to Huckleberry Mountain was. As the only other named summit in the Apgar Mountain Range I thought it would be fun to catch the two ends since I had climbed Apgar last night. Beargrass was out in full force on the lower half of the mountain. They are such a unique flower when they do bloom.
Higher on the mountain other flowers were blooming as well. Not all where white flowers although there were plenty of them.
The trail opened up and with the cool morning air it was just a really fun hike and I had it all to myself. The bump in the distance isn't the top, just a false summit enroute.
Crossed some rocks that really showed the ripples of being an old mud bed from the sea. Just got pushed up several thousands of feet.
The fire tower was a nice place for a snack prior to a little exploring around the summit area. Lots of Glacier Lillies around the summit.
One snowbank stretched out along the far ridge. It was 10 or so feet high and fun to play on.
It was just noon when I got back to the trailhead. Only 10 miles so far so after lunch I headed about 9 miles south of West Glacier to climb Ousel Peak. Tough trailhead to get to so I had never climbed it before. Turns out I had it to myself for the rest of the day. Lower slopes were steep, averaged 26% grade by my GPS. Also very dense lodgepole forrest. Not any views yet but still pretty with a wild feel.
Saw these mushrooms growing on an old log. Thought the colors were cool. It also gave me a chance to catch my breath by stopping to take a photo.
Found the wilderness boundary sight. I think it has been on this tree a long time by how they have grown together,
Nearing the top the snow became an issue. Lots of it remained. Had my crampons with and they helped the going up a lot.
When I did make it to the summit the wind was blowing early strong and it had a bit of a bite to it but the summit was snow free. Took lots of photos but they are al variations on this one. Really spectacular views. Used a rock pile as a wind break and sat up on top for close to an hour enjoying the views.
The trip down went pretty fast due to the steepness. I was tired at the end of the day. Lots of miles and lots of up and down.
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