SNAP*Shot: 25 Miles in Dawn’s Early Light

Posted on by Joy

We are getting an early start today, which in winter means leaving by 7:30am. This is the last 260 miles of my drive home from a holiday visit to family and friends in California. Little did I know that today’s first 25 miles along ID-33 East would be so glorious. East Butte at left, Middle Butte right, are two of three volcanic domes that grace the landscape as we journey through the Snake River Plain of southern Idaho. Come on along as we take a quick look at this unique area.

best sunrise 1

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SNAP*Shot: Vibrant, Unique Western Larch

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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.

Western Larch, tamaracks

So much more to see . . .

Gorgeous Canyon Views, Scary Winter Possibilities–What a Difference a Day Makes!

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Name one thing that is great about Yellowstone in October: Off-season lodge rates. Name one word of caution about Yellowstone in October: SNOW. Since I love staying at the new Canyon Lodges with steep discounts and the aspen and cottonwoods are in sparkling yellow now, I’ll take my chances. It is a gorgeous day to drive along the Gibbon River to Norris Junction then heading east to the Canyon area. The Gibbon River has thermal features along its banks and is one of only a few Yellowstone rivers flowing north to south, but that’s a story for another day. Today we are heading to Canyon’s Washburn Lodge, staying the last two nights before the Canyon area closes until next May. Tomorrow morning we will walk the northern end of North Rim Trail to explore waterfalls and canyon walls. This will be such fun.

So excited . . .

Amazing 99 Mile View from Clearwater Lake

Posted on by Joy

The Swan Mountains are dead ahead as we travel up the loop road for seven miles to Clearwater Lake. Our hike today takes us around the 120-acre lake through old growth forests. With autumn just beginning, we should get color on the smaller shrubs and plants. What really piqued my interest about this adventure is the chance to see loons. Clearwater Lake serves as the summer home for many ducks and Common Loons. Although late in the season, let’s hope for the best. There is nothing quite like the call of loons!

swan mountains

This is exciting, let’s go . . .