A group of eight left Molstead Library parking lot at 5 a.m. Aug. 31 bound for a weekend backpacking trip in Glacier National Park.
The trip, Sept. first, was organized by Outdoor Pursuits and consisted of a 12-mile hike with two nights of camping at Quartz and Lower Quartz Lakes before returning to campus.
Six hours after their departure, the group arrived at the ranger’s station where they confirmed reservations, watched a video on bear safety and reviewed park rules, which were consistent with Leave No Trace, a code of outdoor ethics endorsed by several government agencies.
The first leg of the journey, Bowman Lake to Quartz Lake, was a strenuous 6.2- mile hike through dense vegetation. Stopping several times for water, sightseeing and huckleberry picking, the hike was a steady, gradual incline that led to an overview of the Quartz Lake as well as Lower and Middle Quartz.
Quartz Lake was nothing short of picturesque. The lake was small and serene, flanked by rolling, pine-covered hills while two mountains topped by jagged peaks dominated the background. All campsite activity was compliant with the Leave No Trace Policy: Food preparation and consumption was confined to a designated, community area; all food, utensils and other odorous supplies (toothpaste, deodorant, etc.) were stored in a stuff-sack and hung out of reach of scavengers.
After dinner, most campers relaxed and enjoyed the view as the sunlight slowly faded while others found that imagination is key to enjoying the outdoors.
Student Dan Duffy, 25, Lake Geneva Wis., quickly organized a rock-skipping competition.
After emerging victorious as the day’s rock-skipping champion, Duffy found himself defending his ability to create time-killing games from nothing more than flat rocks and a body of water.
“Just because we’re simple doesn’t mean we’re stupid,” Duffy said.
At noon the following day, the group packed up and hit the trail to Lower Quartz Lake.
Ninety minutes and three miles later, the group arrived at their next campsite.
Dinner was a treat for all, as another traveler from Holland presented a gift to the group in the form of a freshly snagged trout.
When thanked, the traveler, named Hans Visscher, replied with a humble adage.“Fishing is the art of doing nothing.”
Monday morning brought with it a damp, somber cold. With just enough time to eat and pack, the group began the most challenging portion of the trail at 7 a.m. Greeted by a fresh breeze at the top, they filled their lungs with mountain air and began the final descent down to Bowman Lake.
Stopping to take pictures and take in one last view of Glacier’s rugged beauty, the travelers congratulated each other on a successful trip.
Mild weather, breathtaking views and great company provided a memorable experience.
