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 2 - From Colorado’s Peaks to Concert Beats: Embracing the Unpredictable on the Road

High Spirits, High Mountains, and High Notes: A Rollercoaster Ride of Experiences and Emotions

The vast expanse of the Roosevelt National Forest greeted us on our second week. We challenged ourselves to scale the trails of Taylor Mountain and Big John Mountain, two paths filled with hidden wonders and demanding inclines. The trails were not perfectly marked, whispering hints of wildness and untouched beauty. From the lush undergrowth to breathtaking panoramas, every step felt like a discovery. Zooey, our faithful companion, made some four-legged friends along the way.

Just shy of the Big John Mountain summit, we were compelled to retreat - a testament to the swift and unpredictable temperament of the highlands weather. The clouds, heavy with anticipation, quickly spilled over into a storm. We escaped to Fort Collins and sought shelter at the familiar New Belgium Brewing, a spot Lauren and I had visited in the summer of 2014. As we relished our post-hike beers, we watched the rain cleanse the city from the comfort of the patio.

After the storm, the skies unfurled in an ethereal dance of pinks and purples. It was a spectacle that stained everything with a surreal, intense hue. It was as if the world was donning a soft filter, reminding us of the transcendent beauty that lies at the end of a storm.

On Monday, we embraced a slower pace, savoring our morning coffee with the last views of the ridge line. It was a much-needed pause, a gentle interlude in our otherwise packed journey.

Our next destination was Denver, a haven for rest, recovery, and most importantly, family. Lauren's sister, her husband, and their adorable son have been residents of Denver for over a decade. It felt comforting to step into their world, replete with familial warmth and laughter. The days spent together gave us a refreshing break from our travel routine, and time to relish the simple joys. Cooking together, exchanging stories, and watching the dogs tire each other out.

Denver was the stage for a momentous event we had been eagerly anticipating - seeing Lord Huron perform live at Red Rocks. Our first dance as a married couple was to their tune, 'End of the Earth.' It was a deeply moving experience, standing under the spotty sky, intermittently punctuated by raindrops and harmonious notes. The concert was a celebration of creativity and passion, a reminder of the contagious energy of artists who are in love with their craft.

Despite the allure of Denver and the warmth of family, our journey beckoned. With our hearts filled with fresh memories and anticipation, we packed up and set our sights north. Our destination? Glacier National Park. We were excited, knowing that the road, our home, our playground, awaited us with the promise of more unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas.

Stay tuned for more tales from the road in the next chapter of our Viewfinder Diaries!