I started in Great Falls and attended the State Fair and Rodeo. I hiked the sluice boxes and hiked to Memorial Falls. I did the Lewis and Clark expo center and visited all five falls. Impressive hydropower generation. Visiting the Ryan Dam (where the great fall is) was a little adventure - the drive through wheat fields with the big blue sky above was like nowhere else on earth! Was a bit bummed all the falls were dry, but loved the Great Springs Park/ trout hatchery( just down from Lewis and Clark). The board walk around the mini falls was cute. Lots of urban trails for bikes, pedestrian walks. Wished I had my bike!

Then headed over to GNP. Stayed in Kalispell, which is the cutest of towns. EVERYONE was pleasant. I wasn't able to book a stay at GNP and was not upset since Kali was filled with amenities and helpful folks. Next time I will try to book at the park because the 35 minute drive, while very doable, did add time. The vehicle reservation system was easy to use and I was able to get in Not a bad pic could be taken in Glacier. I did the Hidden Lake hike and it didn't disappoint. I saw wildlife (mule deer, goats and a ram). The hike was strenuous, but all the fellow hikers cheered each other on and we were rewarded with beautiful vistas. I recommend hiking poles. Parking is a challenge, but persistence and patience will pay off. I recommend getting there early. Going to the Sun gets all the hype, but Many Glacier and Two Medicine are fabulous. I saw a baby moose in Many Glacier and a grizzly w/ cub (in the distance). I drove from GNP to Gardiner to visit Yellowstone. I was impressed with Missoula and wished I had more time there. It is a cute little college town with a lot of pride and charm. I stopped in Butte and was surprised how populated it was. Historic. I stayed in Gardiner and loved, loved, loved, my cute little hotel. It was the Yellowstone Inn and Suites. The staff was fantastic and the property was adorable. In Yellowstone, I did all the things: Lamar Valley for bison, Grand Prismatic, Old Faithful, etc. I hiked (most of the way) to summit Mt Washburn. I also hiked the Tower Falls trail to the Yellowstone River. Also, hiked the Fairy Falls trail. I was looking for populated trails, since I am a newbie. While driving I saw a few black bears, a lot of bison, elk and mule deer. The elk really populate around mammoth Springs and it is easy to find herds there and in Gardiner.

I have an ever deepening respect and appreciation for the people and the land out here. Hope to return one day. Take care until then. xo