running under the BigSky
The Spanish Peaks is an area I've been wanting to get into for a long time and finally got to go yesterday with the local Helena running group. We decided on the Indian Ridge Loop which takes you into the heart of the Spanish Peaks, a 24-ish mile route w/ over 7000' of gain (all in the first 15 miles). Took us about 8 hours with several nice breaks to soak in the many views.
the first big climb done and now on the Indian Ridge trail
on the ridge proper w/ a nice view of Gallatin Peak
making our way to Beacon Point
looking into Grayling Lake
looking into the NF of Hell Roaring drainage (and Thompson Lake)
Thompson Lake at the foot of Gallatin Peak
headend cirque of NF Hell Roaring, one more good climb
Summit Lake- a very unusual spot for a lake, right at the pass between Hell Roaring and Spanish Creeks, stunning location
this next 9-ish mile stretch was all downhill, the first 5 miles brutal downhill- steep and very technical, which is made tougher when you have lots to gawk around at
Mirror Lake
head waters of Spanish Ck
the route
this was a "big bang for the buck" run; definitely will be back into this area again
2023 goal 2023 miles √
2022 goal- 2022 miles √
2021 goal- 2021 miles √
Great adventure. Thanks for posting pics. What a beautiful spot.
When I die I want to come back as a mutt who's owned by a Montana trail runner. Looked like they were happy.
That is awesome. I really think you should consider a 100 mile run. The time you have been spending on your feet this year makes me think you are ready. You can hike, run, and endure. It is just a matter of pulling the trigger, and you would probably love it.
LB2
Looks fantastic, great photos. I really like Summit Lake. Thanks for posting them here !!!
2/17/24 - Forgotten Florida 100 Mile, Christmas, FL
thanks all!
LB- thanks for the vote of confidence; I have been contemplating stepping up to a 50 mile race next year
Thanks for posting.. great photos, stunning scenery, blah blah blah.. just another day on the trail for you. I bet the dog enjoyed those legs. Did you all join him (or her) for a swim? Agree with LB on the longer distance race. You definitely have a 50 in you.. maybe more?
In dog beers, I've only had one.
Tim
You suck!
Sure it's easy to run with fantastic scenery. Come out to PA and see if you can run in the deep woods with no vistas or views.
OK, in all seriousness, thanks for the pics, looks like an amazing training run. Keep 'em coming.
“Paralysis-to-50k” training plan is underway!
XT I didn't swim but soaked up to my waist for 10-15 minutes in Thompson Lake; at the end of the run I took advantage of Spanish Ck and found a waist deep hole to soak in- I find that cold water helps me recover
AT- I think we should consider a Trailer Trash get together for next summer, I'd be more than willing to "host" it here in Montana- I've got a bunch of nice runs we could do. I'd be willing to travel somewhere else too.
And thanks for for the additional votes of confidence
Le professeur de trail
Where is the drooling icon?????
If I could justify a trip to Montana to DW, I would be there!
Love it!
My favorite day of the week is RUNday
What a great spot and run!
Warden's running camp, here I come!
I'd love that. If a few ladies came along, DW would be in as well.
Plus I could drink a Moose Drool beer, or three.
Faster Than Your Couch!
One of these days, you might get banned from this forum for being such an instigator! Always causing us to get jealous, and instilling ideas and desires in our heads.
Sounds like an epic adventure again!
Those views, the lakes, the trails, the mountains, just gorgeous and awesome. Would probably also be a great hike, maybe for 2 days, to enjoy the views and the lakes for a bit longer.
Thanks for sharing.
Run for fun.
thanks Marie, anyone is more than welcome to come visit here in Big Sky country