sunset in Two Medicine Lake

Place: Two Medicine Lake

Miles: 0 [on the parking]

other people: maybe 4

view: incredible 

Chief mountain

Chief Mt- 22 miles

level- Moderate 

"White Man's Dog raised his eyes to the west and followed the Backbone of the World from north to south until he could pick out Chief Mountain. It stood apart from the other mountains, not as tall as some but strong, its square face a landmark to all who passed. But it was more than a landmark to the Pikunis, Kainahs and Siksikas, the three tribes of the Blackfeet, for it was on top of Chief Mountain that the blackhorn skull pillows of the great warriors still lay. On those skulls Eagle Head and Iron Breast had deamed their visions in the long-ago, and the animal helpers had made them strong in spirit and fortunate in war."- James Welsh

Whenever you go on a long trip to climb one mountain, there is always an uncertainty. Much can go wrong during a climb in Glacier National Park. That day we were fortunate, it had been weeks since we had a perfect climb. Perfect weather, company and luck pushed us forward to the summit of this majestic peak. The morning was one that I crave, we hiked uninterpreted for 6 miles. Time to meditate and get into the trance that hiking provides. The approach to this mountain once we left the trail was pleasant, thankfully the sheep had carved out a game trail many years ago. We traversed around papoose and ninaki, which brought us to a large scree field. We were blessed to find a "climbers trail" all the way to a set of cliffs near the top which looked as if they were stairs leading us to the summit ridge. From there it was an enjoyable climb to the top. As you can see from the pictures the bison scull at the summit reinforces the legend of Eagle Head and Iron Breast. These men also enjoyed this amazing summit hundreds of years before we did. While this peak was a bit of a split decision, I am so thankful that we decided to climb to the top. This mountain did not feel like one we conquered, but instead one we experienced.

written by Mike 

Rising Wolf Mt

 22 miles
level moderate

The day started out like most other climbs I have done this summer, but would soon turn into one I would never forget. The hike up to Dawson was a quick one, as we have already done it before. Once we left the trail the fun began. We traversed along the bottom of Flinsch Peak thinking that we would attempt that summit later in the day. Once around Flinsch, The beautiful young man lake came into view. As we continued along the ridge toward Rising Wolf, Pitimakin Pass as well as Old Man lake joined the vista. The rest of the hike up to the summit consisted of some light climbing and scree scrambling. Summiting this mountain felt great as we both have been looking at it all season! Once on the summit the real story begins. I had never believed that grizzly bears hung around the top of mountains until two young cubs joined us on the summit as close as 6 feet from us. Angelika caught them out of the corner of her eye, and we grabbed all our belongings and went running down the mountain. I like to say that despite everything you are told to do during bear encounters, you never know how to react when you actually see one! We finished the climb by heading down the mountain on the east side instead of heading back to the pass. This proved to be a bad idea as we were then bush whacking till dark. A nice 4 mile hike at night while singing bear songs capped off a memorable climb!

Written by Mike

(Rabbit having fun at Dawson Pass)

(Rabbit soon made many friends)