Springtime in the Rockies
Riding - Hiking - Spring Flowers - Photography
This is a beautiful week in the back country. We don't see many people this time of year, but we do see lots of wildlife and lots of wild flowers. Due to the nature of higher mountain valleys, spring comes a later than most anywhere else. We usually cross hardened snow drifts on the mountain passes, and often snow will linger in the shady areas quite a ways down the valleys. In the river valley fllors, where this trip primarily travels, the snow is melted off, and the grass and trees are bursting with spring foliage. By far this is the most colorful trip of the year as all the mountain wildflowers are out in splendor. Additionally, the wildlife is more common at the end of June as they are moving from winter range to summer range, chasing the green grass as they go higher in elevation. The rivers and streams will be full with winter run off. There isn't much for fishing this time of year due to he murky nature of the streams.
Day 1: Pack up early at the trailhead. On most route, depending on run off conditions, we ride up the South Fork Two Medicine River valley floor. As we are very close to Glacier Park, we are constantly in view of Glaciers snow capped and dramatic peaks. Riding distance 9 miles.
Day 2: Non travel day. We have multiple day rides including to Badger Meadows and the ranger cabin nestled there. This is wide open country with rolling meadows and superb views. Riding distance can be 6 miles.
Day 3: Non travel day. One of our many options is towards Two Medicine Ridge with expansive views of the northern Great Plains in the distance as well as Glacier Park and the Two Medicine valley. Riding distance 6 miles.
Day 4: Non travel day. One of our many options is riding up North Badger Creek where we often see wildlife as it follows the emerging grass upslope. This route takes us below the very impressive Goat Mountain and the upper vistas of North Badger. Riding distance 8 miles.
Day 5: Pack up early and begin our descent down the South Fork valley towards the Summit trailhead Riding distance 9 miles.
This trip offers a healthy dose of horseback riding and day-hiking adventures. Every campsite has tons of options for day hike or day riding activities. The rides between campsites are through mostly open meadows and average about 12 miles per day. The wildlife are abundant, and the wildflowers are amazing this time of year. This is the best trip for for photography of wildlife and wildflowers. If you are a professional photographer, or aspiring amateur, bring the appropriate lenses, etc as you'll find you are using them extensively.
Of particular interest, due to the absolute remote nature of the Bob Marshall, there is zero light polution, and near perfectly clear skies. The deep evening star gazing is intensely beautful, where you can see brilliantly our evening constellations, the Milky Way galaxy, and numerous shooting stars. This is a unique and rare opportunity to see our night time sky in a way you've not seen it before. The days are long out here, so plan on staying up late as sunset is about 10pm.
Additionally, this trip comes out on 7/2. If your schedule permits, we encourage you to take advantage of our Choteau 4th of July activities. This is a great western 4th experience in our small town, which draws thousands of visitors from around the region. There will be parades, fireworks, and of course a western rodeo. Great family fun and lots of things to do right after your trip ends.
While this trip goes out in late June, the temps and weather you will experience is mountain spring-like conditions. Expect mild days with chilly nights. Layers are key to comfort, and you should always bring comfortable rain gear to ride or hike in. Comfortable hiking/riding boots are a must. Your sleeping bag should be comfortable to about 30F, though it rarely gets quite that cold. Daytime temps will be in the 70's, and we will not get days in the 80's in the mountains this time of year. Please take a look at the downloadable PDF below for additional detail.
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About
A Lazy H Outfitters is a family business operated by Joseph and Lis Haas. We have been taking guests and friends into the mountains for 100 years. We are passionate about providing you an extraordinary adventure into what we think is the coolest wild country in the lower 48 states.
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- P.O. Box 167
Choteau, MT 59422 - Phone: (800) 893-1155
- Email: [email protected]
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