CDT Montana 2016
Day 43, August 17, Wednesday
Start Many Glacier Campground 30-009WT
Stop Granite Campsite 30-091XR
Trail miles walked: 8.1
The peaks around the public campgrounds are almost unreasonably picturesque.
Starting the trail out of Many Glacier we get a lake view.
Soon the way up into the heights starts to appear up a slanting ridge.
A day-hiker from Los Angeles was so sunny and exuberant and asked so many questions about my trip that she earned a photo.
The path starts climbing with views of several cascading waterfalls.
The trail swings close for a better look.
Looking back, we can see a chain of lakes, with Swiftcurrent Lake at Many Glacier the furthest.
After a few brief miles, I detour near my campsite to see Granite Chalet, where the fancy people stay, with all meals provided.
Later a camper said that he checked, and all rooms were booked.
Vistas along Highline Trail reward the walk.
A ranger patrol cabin is near the campsite.
Looking towards the campsite and chalet, the granite in the name becomes apparent, all that gray rock on the ground.
A ranger is at our campsite doing an evaluation of the site, then checks permits, then leaves on horseback. The camp gradually fills to capacity.
Clouds gather in the afternoon. Thunder is ominous, but no rain falls, as temperatures drop quickly and deeply.