Glacier National Park: Part Two
This day, if we were keeping track, would be in my top ten
best days that I’ve had in my entire life. It was spectacular from start to
finish. First, we drove to West Glacier, where the westernmost entrance to the
park is. Oh dang was I excited. Today we had brought gear more suited to hiking
and were definitely going to see some animals. Animals in Montana aren’t really
an oddity, but they are hard to find if you don’t know where to look. Driving
along Going-to-the-Sun Road, we could only make it in about 15 miles before it
was closed for snow, but that was okay. We got out and had a really amazing
hike along some rapids.
Along the way, we saw some evidence of erosion and soil
loss. It was really surprising to see. They had a particularly hard winter this
past year, but it’s so much different to see the evidence right in front of
you.
We didn’t end up seeing any animals in the park
(disappointment). Seriously though, I’ve seen more bears/elk/moose/deer/antelope
on the road (that I’ve had to dodge).
Conveniently, however, is a spot next
door called the Montana Bear Adventure. This place is like Jurassic Park, where
you stay in your car, but the bears are roaming free. I got to see some bears
up close this time! Up close, they’re like really scary dogs. They were
sitting, playing with their paws, chewing on sticks, doin’ bear stuff. Great.
So great.
After that, we needed a break. The sister, baby, and I went
to the Glacier Distilling Company where they have free whiskey tastings. I don’t
drink whiskey. It does not appeal to me whatsoever. I find that it’s just all
burny and gross. Nevertheless, drank up those shots like a champ. I’m all about
supporting local business, so it was nice to stop by. That’s the other great
thing about Montana: just about everything is locally owned. Except for like,
you know, Target, and Starbucks.
Whiskey Barn |
Last stop on our glorious trip was Huckland. Montana has an
abundance of huckleberries. A real abundance. They’re kind of like blueberries.
They’re delicious. They grow only in the wild, primarily where bears live. Because
bears also think they’re delicious, they’re
always really expensive because of the whole risking your life thing. At
Huckland, I had a huckleberry smoothie, and bought some delicious jammy gifts
to give to my friends when I get back to Canada.
This day was just fantastic start to finish. I don’t know if
I’ll be able to top it this summer, although I’m going to try!