June 16, 2008
 Hiking up a trail through a forest of conifers, we move towards our destination, stopping occasionally to catch our breath. We top a hill anchored by a huge Douglas fir and walk down a path to see the idyllic Trout Lake. It is crystal clear water, several acres in size. Ducks glide to a graceful landing, trout are visible, swimming near the bank and the sound of rushing water catches our attention where the stream flows from the lake. Trees line the lake in a semi-circle, opening to a meadow beneath snow-capped mountains. The fresh clean air fills our lungs as we circle the lake and we hear the sounds of Clarks Nutcrackers feeding young. We sit and contemplate the scene around us, the beauty and peace that overwhelms us.
 Earlier in the morning, we had stopped to investigate an animal out on the prairie. It was a wolf! Looking through the scopes, we could see the face of this wonderful animal. The look of a wolf’s eyes is something we will never forget.
Later that day we headed northeast to the Beartooth Mountains. Stunning mountain vistas greeted us. As we drove to and from this one-of-a-kind scenery, we saw marmots, a Red Fox, White-crowned Sparrows, Gray Jays, Rosy Finches, a weasel (we think) and a Barrow’s Goldeneye.
The day ended with a short hike across open meadows to the edge of the Lamar River. We spent time individually observing, turning our observations into a haiku. Another 16 hour day ended filled with wonderment, joy and growth. We took our rest, filled with excitement for tomorrow.
Wandering river
You flow by with power
Let nothing stop you
~Sarah Kuszaj
Q & A for June 16 |
