Unplugged in Montana: A Week of Nature, Biking, and Food Adventures

Foggy morning over the lake by camp in the Lolo National Forest

For week five of our cross-country journey, we found ourselves nestled in the heart of Montana's Lolo National Forest. Our home for the week was initially a stunning site by Lake Lindbergh, a lesser-known gem in Montana's expansive wilderness. Despite the picturesque views and the calming lull of the lake at night, our trusty Starlink struggled to establish a solid signal. So, with a sense of adventure, we packed up camp and relocated to a secluded spot past Seeley Lake on a small, hidden lake. This location had everything we needed: easy access to the lake, nearby trails to explore, a pit toilet, ample space for our Goal Zero solar panels to soak up the sun and charge our Goal Zero power Goal Zero power station and panels to soak up the sunshine, and, crucially, a clear shot for our Starlink to connect us with the world.

The week was filled with activities, from fishing and biking to early morning drives and catching up on much-needed rest. The Clark Fork River, a haven for fishing enthusiasts, was only a stone's throw away. I spent countless hours acquainting myself with this stretch of water, which, with its abundance of Green Drakes, was an absolute dream for any fly fisherman. On the other hand, my gravel bike offered a perfect way to explore the surrounding Lolo National Forest. During one such biking excursion, I found myself venturing down a forest service road, which quickly faded into a grassy trail. Despite the unexpected route, the detour offered a chance to appreciate the blooming wildflowers and soak in the views of the valley below.

While I relished the solitude of the natural world, Lauren had to take a detour from our woodland retreat for a work trip, flying out of Missoula. This marked the first time we had separated since embarking on our journey from Minnesota. The predawn drive to the airport was an unexpectedly beautiful experience. Montana's countryside unfolded around us, painted with the gentle hues of blue hour.

Upon my return to camp and a quick nap, Zooey and I decided to make the most of the day. We were surrounded by the tranquility of our lakeside refuge, the hum of insects, and the quiet lap of water against the shore. The green drake hatch was in full swing on the Clark Fork, so Zooey and I spent the day together, casting my line and enjoying the rhythm of fly fishing.

The bustling town of Missoula offered a welcome change of pace. We savored our "town day," starting with a visit to Black Coffee Roasters for some much-needed caffeine and a replacement coffee grinder. A delectable lunch at a local cafe set the perfect tone for the day. And being next to the Missoulian Angler, I couldn't resist the temptation to step into the fly shop. Equipped with their advice and a new fly box, I was ready to continue my angling adventures.

Our Lolo National Forest escapade also offered the chance to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. I had the pleasure of meeting and fishing with John, Sam, Jack, and the fine folks at Native Release. Even though it was an afternoon of small fish, the experience was enriched by the shared passion for nature and the camaraderie among us.

Cooking outdoors has its unique charm, and it's made even better with the right tools. That's why we've come to rely heavily on our Snowpeak Takibi grill, a centerpiece of our outdoor culinary adventures. (Exciting news – I've partnered with Snowpeak and now have an affiliate link. If you're inspired by our cooking escapades and decide to purchase from them, you'll be supporting our summer road trip of cooking and traveling!). This week, we crafted a couple of memorable meals, each one a celebration of open air and the joy of food. We indulged in surf and turf tacos one night and savored a classic grilled steak with charred asparagus another night, all cooked to perfection on our Snowpeak grill. Paired with an ice-cold Draught Works Hand Rolled Hazy IPA, each meal was a testament to the pleasure of simple, well-cooked food under the Montana sky."

Coffee, our faithful companion, was another highlight of the week. We were sipping on Black Coffee Roasters Sidma Ethiopian single origin roast, a perfect pairing for the early morning chill and the anticipation of the day ahead. Brewed on our Kalita Wave flat-bottom pour-over, each cup was a comforting ritual that grounded us in our nomadic life.

Zooey and I also embarked on an adventurous day trip to a fire lookout tower, my first. Despite the forest service website's information, we found the tower locked. Nevertheless, the hike, the panoramic views, and the companionship made the trip worthwhile.

Looking back, our week in the Missoula area felt like a home away from home. The landscape, the activities, and the people gave us a sense of belonging, making us muse about the possibility of calling this place home someday. And that, perhaps, is the most significant takeaway from this journey—finding home in the most unexpected places."

Week 1: Kicking Off Our Road Trip Adventure - From Minneapolis to Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest

A-liner Evolution and "Babe" our 4Runner SR5 tucked away in the mountains of Northern Colorado.

Hello, world! It's been a whirlwind of a week since we left the comforting familiarity of Minneapolis, MN, embarking on a journey that will change our lives forever. From our small, quaint beginnings of our home in Minneapolis to finally getting a taste of living on the road, we have already learned a lot!

Lauren overlooking a beautiful lake in Custer State Park with a hazy sky from the Canadian Wildfires.

We set off from home on the 20th of May, our hearts filled with both excitement and nervousness. As we packed the last of our belongings, hugged our friends and family goodbye, there was an undeniable sense of embarking on something extraordinary. Our first stop was the Sandy Point County Park in Lakefield, MN, a peaceful little sanctuary nestled by South Heron Lake. The quiet and serene atmosphere was a perfect start for our journey.

A seemingly endless gravel road through nomads land in Nebraska by the Oglala National Grassland.

After a restful first night, we made the ambitious trek to South Dakota's iconic Custer State Park. Driving our trusty 4runner SR5, lovingly named "Babe," with the Aliner Travel Trailer in tow was a challenge. However, a quick pit stop in Chamberlain, SD, allowed us to stretch our legs at Roam Free Park and fuel ourselves with a delicious lunch.

Arriving at Custer State Park felt surreal. A slight haze hung in the air from distant wildfires, yet it didn't deter the charm of our temporary home. We camped at the Stockade South campground, a stone's throw away from the mesmerizing lake. One of our standout moments from Custer was undoubtedly the Lover's Leap hike. The wildfire haze was starting to lift, revealing breathtaking views that made for fantastic photography. As an adventure lifestyle photographer, I relished the opportunity to capture such landscapes. Another highlight? My day spent fly fishing on French Creek, followed by a delectable dinner of fire-roasted salmon and vegetables.

The View from the top of Lover's Leap trail in Custer State Park. Tall pines off in the distance during golden hour with the slight haze of the Canadian Wildfire smoke.

The road beckoned again, and we found ourselves heading towards Cheyenne, WY. A scenic work stopover at J.H. Keith Cascade Falls Picnic Area in Hot Springs, SD, provided Lauren the peace to finish her workday amidst curious onlookers amused by our off-the-grid setup. Following a longer than anticipated drive through the unknown, we arrived at the Last Chance Camp in Cheyenne. Our stay was punctuated by an exhilarating hike at Curt Gowdy State Park, chased by storm clouds and hail. And of course, we couldn’t forget those mouthwatering tacos from Best Tacos y Burritos la Paz - easily some of the best I've ever had!

Our last leg for the week brought us to the stunning Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest in Colorado. Perched atop a ridgeline, our campsite offered awe-inspiring views of the valley and distant mountain ranges. Despite sporadic afternoon storms, our spirits remained undeterred. With Denver on the horizon, we’re excited to visit family, catch a Lord Huron concert, and keep embracing the unknown.

Lauren and Zooey standing on the overlook while admiring the view of our campsite in the Arapahoe & Roosevelt National Forest up in the Colorado Rockies.

Stay tuned to follow us as we continue our journey, living out of our Aliner Travel Trailer, capturing breathtaking landscapes, and creating unforgettable memories. If you're intrigued by a nomadic lifestyle, photography, or just love a good old adventure, this blog is for you! Join us on our journey, from Minnesota and beyond. Until next time!

Our A-liner Evolution and “Babe” 4Runner SR5 tucked away in the woods in the Arapahoe & Roosevelt National Forest up in the Colorado Rockies.