Montana s Pyramid Pass and the Adventure that was Bear-ly There
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
Montana’s Pyramid Pass: An Adventure That Was Bear-ly There!
Summary:
A thrilling yet humorous journey to Pyramid Pass in Montana, marked by the presence of a bear that turned out to be less fearful than expected.
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Montana, Bob Marshall Wilderness, Pyramid Pass, Bear, Grizzly Bear, Hike, Hiking, Swan Range
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When hiking in Montana, especially into the Bob Marshall Wilderness, it’s customary for hikers to warn each other about any bears on the trail. As Donny and I reached a significant switchback on our trek to Pyramid Pass, we were alerted by some departing outfitters about a bear ahead. They suggested we stay vigilant but reassured us that there was no major cause for concern.
"No major problem," they said, though it was easy for them to say. These seasoned outfitters, armed and on horseback, passed their calm advice to us?"two unarmed hikers unfamiliar with bears, particularly in an area known for its grizzly population. Nervous laughter followed as we speculated about this bear encounter.
Donny, originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was ready to retreat. He suggested we turn back and avoid any potential danger. But I, having spent my youth in the Colorado backcountry, understood that most bears prefer solitude and avoid human interaction. Exceptions exist, of course, especially if they’re surprised, protecting a meal, or with their cubs. Despite my experience, I had never actually encountered a bear in my 40 years in Colorado and Montana.
Our goal was Pyramid Pass, which borders the Bob Marshall Wilderness, accessible from Seeley Lake, Montana. This breathtaking area includes majestic views of Pyramid Peak to the north. The trailhead, located above Morrell Creek, begins about 10 miles northeast of Seeley Lake. Having hiked this trail before, I knew the 6-mile trek into the backcountry was manageable, though the return journey always felt longer.
The trail starts gently, following lower ridges for the first mile, then gradually climbs through switchbacks. It eventually levels out, extending for another 3 miles into the canyon above Trail Creek. Here, snow slides reveal stunning views of Pyramid Peak, and mountain meadows bloom with bear grass and flowers?"ideal bear habitats.
We braced ourselves for possible doom, armed only with sturdy sticks. While we couldn’t fend off a bear with sticks, they served to make noise. We struck trees and rocks, hoping to alert any bears to our presence and avoid a surprise encounter, a key strategy in bear safety.
As the trail ascended into denser forests along Trail Creek, our anxiety grew, especially after another group of horseback riders confirmed the bear’s proximity. Our stick-thumping intensified as we inched forward.
Nearing the summit, we crossed a creek and maneuvered around downed timber when we finally saw the bear. To our bemusement, it lay sprawled on a log, reminiscent of a large black lab in size. Our imaginations had exaggerated the bear into a ferocious beast, which was now only amusing. Our relief was palpable.
We cautiously continued past the drowsing bear, realizing our earlier fear was unfounded, yet appreciating the humorous turn in our day. The final stretch to the pass felt much lighter, and soon we arrived at a small lake just before the wilderness boundary, our destination.
This magnificent corner of the world offered astonishing views into the Bob Marshall Wilderness as we enjoyed our lunch. Once satiated, we trekked back, eager for the warm embrace of a jacuzzi in Missoula. For those tiring from exploration, Montana offers various accommodations, easily found through [Montana Adventure](http://www.montanaadventure.com/out/state/us-mt.html), the perfect way to relax after traversing this spectacular region.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Montana s Pyramid Pass and the Adventure that was Bear-ly There .
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