First Adventure in the Bitterroot Range

After completing my first week of work at my new job in Hamilton, Montana, it was time to enjoy the lovely weekend!  A coworker had recommended a hike to an overlook that wouldn't be too difficult with a baby, so we checked it out.  On the hike upwards we were treated to great views of the Bitterroot Valley, with the Sapphire Mountains to the East, and glimpses of the intimidating canyons before us that snake into the deep wilderness of the Bitterroot Mountains.

These imposing mountains are still almost the same as when the Lewis & Clark Expedition probed them for a suitable pass (which they found to the North of Hamilton, near present day Lolo).  But for us, it was a nice stroll through the forest and enjoying the stunning beauty of God's creation.  As we got hire up more wild roses and lupine were everywhere.

Upon reaching the top of the overlook, the beauty of the canyon stretching into the wilderness was breathtaking.  The distant peaks that were visible sit in Idaho, and it's the beginning of a vast tract of virtually untouched land for over 100 miles.

After enjoying the views for a while and giving Adelaide time to not be cooped up in the carrier we headed back down the trail.  Addie conveniently slept most of the hike down.  And on our way back down the trail we began to hit lots of hikers on their way up.  One thing that has struck Amber and I about this area is how friendly, genuine, and level headed everyone here is.  I've long known that Montanans have a reputation for being friendly and kind, but here in Ravalli County we are blown away by it all.  It doesn't matter if it's fellow Christians, random strangers, cashiers in the grocery store, hikers on a trail, or your own neighbors.  For the most part life goes on here much like normal, people have the freedom to live life how they see fit and don't judge others who disagree, people recognize the importance of family bonding, and their is a huge sense of patriotism still alive in this part of the country.  It's the three F's.  Faith, Family, & Freedom are alive and well here.  It's so refreshing and makes me all the more excited to think about raising our family in God's country.