Escaping the Everyday

I can’t believe we are approaching a year of living in Montana! It has been an adventure in itself, and I believe this is the perfect time to reflect on the beauty of Montana. Prepare yourself for an abundance of stunning photographs!

I would say that if you are entering Montana from the east side, there is not much to see. When Jake and I entered Montana and it resembled the Great Plains, we began to wonder if this was truly what it would be like.

Fortunately, as we drove closer to the Rockies, the scenery became increasingly spectacular leaving us in awe. Our new home was just ahead of us. People often ask us if we moved to Montana because of the show Yellowstone, our response is always, “We’ve actually never seen that show.” The lifestyle is something we just love so much.

For the readers, I would like to present some of the most stunning scenery we have encountered in Montana. One destination we have yet to explore is Glacier National Park, and if we were to visit, I’m certain there would breathtaking pictures.

Pine Creek Lake

Pine Creek Lake is situated in a glacial cirque beneath the northern slope of Black Mountain. The path to the lake is clearly marked and winds through the forest on its way to the base of Pine Creek Falls.

Beyond the falls, the trail becomes steep and demanding, progressing past series of smaller waterfalls and two small lakes before reaching Pine Creek Lake, where splendid views and a well-deserved rest await.

If you are feeling up to it, you can continue for another two miles with an elevation gain of 1,800 feet to Black Mountain peak, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Paradise Valley and Beartooth Plateau.

The photographs above captured Pine Creek Lake, and it was undoubtedly one of the most challenging hikes. However, the effort was immensely rewarded due to the beautiful views. It almost felt surreal.

One can witness amazing views from the road or airplane, but I firmly believe that the beauty of a place is not revealed until one ventures off the beaten path.

Mount Blackmore

One aspect of Montana that I have always found amazing is the views from the mountain summits. One can observe mountain peaks extending for miles. Montana is aptly named the “Big Sky” for a reason.

Mount Blackmore is approximately a 12-mile out and back hike with just under 4,000 feet of elevation gain. The peak stands just over 10,000 feet high, making it one of the tallest mountains we have ever summited. We also had the opportunity to observe mountain goats congregating below the peak, they were significantly larger than I had anticipated.

Storms of Montana

Another fascinating aspect of Montana is the storms. It is not something I have experienced on the east coast, but it is incredible to witness rainstorm or thunderstorms that are miles away. You can slowly see it approaching getting closer and closer.

Jake and I always have to check the weather to ensure we would not get trapped in a storm. We realized that storms can either pass through rapidly or approach gradually. On one occasion, while I was out running, I found myself caught in a rainstorm. Observing the clouds, it appeared that the storm was still an hour or so away, but unfortunately, I was thoroughly drenched by the time I finished my run.

It almost reminds me of Florida, where the day is sunny, followed by a thunderstorm, and then it will be sunny again. Avoid getting caught in a thunderstorm while in the mountains.

The Foothills

Traversing the foothills of these magnificent mountains holds a unique beauty. You never reach a peak, but you will get glimpses of views when a trail opens up. Foothills are also excellent for trail running as there are numerous ups and downs, rather than running straight up to a peak and straight back down.

During the summertime, the landscape becomes lush and green, providing a refreshing view with various shades of green from the grass and different types of trees. Experiencing the natural environment has significantly enhanced my appreciation for world.

Bear Trap Canyon

Driving through canyons can be absolutely stunning, but hiking through canyons truly immerses you in the experience, allowing you to appreciate and revel in their beauty.

One of our initial hikes in Montana was through Bear Trap Canyon, it was highly satisfying. We couldn’t believe how amazing it was as you walk/hike along side the river. Additionally, we observed other individuals fly fishing in the canyon, which appears to be quite popular in this area.

If you ever have the opportunity to explore a canyon, I highly recommend it. Do not merely drive through it; instead walk through it and breathe in the fresh air. It will be so beneficial for your soul.

Skiing and Snowboarding

It is evident that skiing and snowboarding in Montana are truly remarkable experiences. You get the fresh powder snow that’s not man-made, with long trails. Big Sky is one of our favorite mountains to ski in Montana. Considering we’ve only visited few, it’s undoubtedly worth the trip. It’s not surprising that millionaires have their own residences in the Yellowstone Community. They actually have their own lift up to the resort.

Jake and I have discussed our future, and one of the best decisions we ever made was to move out west and explore what the West Coast truly has to offer. If we were ten or even five years younger, we would probably continue to explore all areas of the US. However, eventually, we want to have a family and settle down.

Our goal is to retire early, and when our children are old enough, we plan to travel all over. The reality is that one cannot see the future; therefore, its crucial for both of us to experience life in this manner while we are still young.

One significant challenge I faced before relocating to Montana was leaving my career, as I had worked extremely hard to achieve my accomplishments. What I have come to understand is that a job is simply a job. I now realize that I will not look back and think, “I wish I had stayed at my job instead exploring what the world has to offer.” Do not misunderstand me; we all need a job that allows us to support ourselves and our families. However, a job can be found anywhere, and unfortunately, anyone is replaceable.

With that in mind, I hope this provides you with some encouragement to explore and live your life to the fullest.