July 19th ~ Glacier National Park

Rocky Point overlooking Lake McDonald

Lake McDonald

“Ten miles long and nearly 500 feet deep (152.4 m), Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park, is a direct result of glacial carving. High peaks surrounding the lake all show evidence of the power of glaciers to carve even the hardest of rock. The powerful glaciers that carved the broad “u-shaped” valley that Lake McDonald sits in also carved smaller hanging valleys with wonderful waterfalls that are accessible by numerous hiking trails.” ~ NPS.gov

After our longer hikes the day before, we opted for an easier excursion today. Rocky Point was listed as just over 2 miles with a 85 foot gain. Sounded easy enough, but what the short description does not mention is that you climb those 85 feet over and over and over and over again.

You walk up the hill a ways, then down hill, then back up hill, then down, repeat, repeat, repeat. Accurate in overall altitude difference from the highest to lowest point, but still seemed like kind of false advertising 🙂

Dense vegetation, and a less traveled pathway prompted us to carry our bear spray. But the walk was lovely, provided some nice glimpses of Lake McDonald where boaters and kayakers would occasionally pass by.

Lake McDonald

Kayaks are for rent in the village

The occasionally well placed log bench provided a welcome resting spot

We often played peek-a-boo with the lake on this trail

We think that Apgar Campground, where we had the RV parked, was located just on the other side of the peninsula jutting out from the right side of this picture, up against the higher mountain.

There was ample evidence of earlier fires here as well

Many areas within the park have burned at one time or another over the years. But as is normally the case, Mother Nature was doing a fine job of regeneration.

Brilliant yellow wildflowers dotted the way

After our hike we took a brief trip into the small village at Apgar, planning on picking up a couple of grocery items. Choices are limited, but we did end up having lunch at a small cafe. I can recommend the fish and chips.

It was a hot afternoon, and it was time to take advantage of being camped right next to the lake!

Hot sun, cool water, refreshing beverage, great company!

GRATITUDE MOMENT: Today I am grateful that our forests can regenerate themselves after a fire. In fact, we have learned that it is healthy for a forest to have a burn every 50 to 100 years. The extreme heat from the fire releases seeds from the cones, providing starts for the next generation.