In the Many Glacier section of Glacier National Park there are lots of hikes to lakes, waterfalls, mountain tops, and even glaciers. The hikes are long and steep, but we’ll be doing what’s considered a gentle family-friendly hike to Redrock Falls. Walking 3.6 miles round-trip with only a 230 ft. elevation gain. We can do this–and oh, the views. It sure looks and even feels like rain, but the forecast says no, so here’s hoping.
Well hi! What a delight to visit Glacier National Park again. Let’s take a two-waterfall hike to Saint Mary Falls then Virginia Falls on the east side of the park. This is the first time for me and maybe you too, so grab your gear and let’s go. It will be 3.6 miles round trip with lots of wide switchbacks taking us first down about 260 feet then up about 280 feet–then doing it in reverse. Let’s take our time and enjoy the ramble because we’ll no doubt be huffing and puffing as we go!
As the craziness of life keeps us running and striving and worrying, downright fearful, and more, it might be time to consider slowing down and looking around. Our natural world has a way of forcing it on us via seasons. Is it time you paid closer attention to the lessons? For me it was a waterfall in Glacier National Park that made me reflect on nature’ s reminders.
When autumn arrives, it is time to head north to savor the unique and beautiful Western larch, called tamaracks in western Montana. Our first stop in Swan Valley is a marvelous view of Swan Peak, the second highest peak in the 99-mile Swan Range. Swan Peak stands at 9,289 feet, with the highest peak only 67 feet taller. Swan Valley ranges from 2,000 to about 2,500 feet giving us a spectacular 6,000+ foot rise to mountain tops. This time of year the mountains gleam with the tamaracks’ autumn gold. Let’s explore the grandeur of these glowing yellow trees of the North.
