My extended family and I are currently in Glacier. A stunning National Park in northwest Montana. We return Sunday. Fantastic times. Totally off the grid. But there is free Wi-Fi. My article is loading.
Glacier NP is outstanding. She spans over one million acres of super rugged terrain, pristine pines, turquoise lakes, and flowing waters. Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” it is a hiker’s paradise. Breathtaking views of incredible mountains, tons of wildflowers, and wildlife. No words to describe her. This is a magical place where you can access 26 remnant glaciers.
My parents joined us from Southern California. They drove up and spent a few days with friends on the way. The Schroyers from Pipestone, MN, also joined us. Teach, Jensen, and I flew American. It was an all-day affair. Never a dull moment. Teach has the worst luck when it comes to travel. This was no different.
We left for Harrisburg the night before. Stayed at a nearby hotel the night before. Up at 5 a.m. and out the door. No time for the free continental breakfast. But we raided the cheap yogurts. Drove to long-term parking. Grabbed a shuttle. Jensen and I packed light at the last minute. Mom is still learning. We managed to check in and get through security. But Jensen triggered an alarm. The poor kid was searched with a wand and rubber gloves. Carry-on items only.
We were delayed leaving and getting to Dallas, TX. Don’t ask. We fly American. Few options when you’re trying to get to Kalispel, MT. Nothing direct. Thankfully, we were all seated together. All of the overhead bins were completely full. The captain got on the horn and said the plane was awfully heavy. Wait? What?
I was not the center of attention. There was this desperate housewife across the aisle. She had three oversized bags and a puppy. It was labeled as a service dog. One that fit in her overpriced purse. Cute and rather well-behaved. But every dang kid on the plane had to pet him. The dog. Not the owner.
Grandpa Jim grabbed us at the airport. We stopped at Walmart for a few last-minute essentials. Another 30 miles north, and we finally made it to the cabin. A dope spot right on the steep banks of the Flathead River. We were ten miles away from Glacier’s southwest entrance. Perfect location. Our home base.
Glacier is always a super busy place, and you need to get in line extra early. Parking is a premium. This NP is a tad different. There is only one main road. Most of the park has very limited access. The Going to the Sun Road is exquisite. The 52-mile scenic marvel dissects the park, crests the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, and showcases several spectacular views of the glacial cut landscapes. We timed it perfect. The road opened this Monday. Lake McDonald is as good as advertised. The water is cold and clear. The rocks come in all shapes and colors. Don’t get me started on this bear spray.
Jensen and his cousin Torin got to fish. They landed some new types of fish. West Slope Cutthroats. Brooks. Yellowstone Cutthroats. Mountain Whitefish and a few Bull Trout. The Bulls are extremely rare. Endangered species. The boys were very fortunate to get one in the net. Bucket list.
Looking forward to our last few days. The scenery is amazing. It’s been 35 years for me. Teach and Jensen are first timers. We tried to get as much as we could. Glacier National Park. Another one of our treasures. Cheers.
