A Very Last Minute Decision...
As July 2023 unfolded, life’s hustle and bustle had us firmly in its grip. Over the last two years, nursing school commitments and the demands of full-time jobs had consumed us. We had little-to-no time for adventure and it was taking it’s toll. One warm summer evening after yet another marathon workday, my fiancé Lukas and I collapsed onto the couch for our evening catch-up. Fresh off the dreaded NCLEX nursing licensure exam, I knew I was in need of a break. Lukas, was equally drained from the demands of his job. After ample bitching and moaning over the day, the realization hit us – we actually did have time to hit the pavement again. Just in time too, my brother, Kyle, was turning 21 in Bozeman and I really wanted to be there to surprise him. We immediately began planning ten days on the road.
The Plan
I had just purchased a CVT pop-up tent for the roof of my trusty 2008 4Runner, “The Black Pearl.” A canvas tent that folds open like a book on top of your car, keeping you about 6 feet off the ground. In bear country you ask? Yes I know…the thought did cross my mind more than once. I did a lot of research, and made some purchases to ensure we were prepared and informed on how to avoid becoming a big canvas bag bear snack. Campsites would be chosen as we went from the trusty iOverlander App. We felt pretty prepared, and if we weren’t, we’d figure it out along the way.
Five states in seven days, three national parks... hopefully.
- DAY 1 – July 23rd: Starting off leaving Oregon to a halfway point between home and Jackson, Wyoming – somewhere around Mountain Home, Idaho.
- DAY 2 – July 24th: Make the rest of the journey to Jackson. Spend the day exploring Jackson and the Grand Tetons.
- DAY 3 – July 25th: Drive through Teton National Park and spend some time through Yellowstone to the West Entrance. Find somewhere to pop up outside the West Entrance of Yellowstone.
- DAY 4 – July 26th: Full day spent in the Park, ending up eventually camping outside the West Entrance again and meeting up with my parents for the rest of the trip.
- DAY 5 – July 27th: Camping at Big Springs Campground.
- DAY 6 – July 28th: Begin the drive towards Bozeman finding a camp close to the city so we could be ready to surprise my brother the next day.
- DAY 7 – July 29th: Surprise Kyle for his 21st birthday. Celebrate with him however he wishes – likely drinking…
- DAY 8 – July 30th: Lake fly fishing.
- DAY 9 – July 31st: Possibly head to Glacier National Park, or stay another day in Bozeman fishing somewhere. See where the day takes us.
- DAY 10 – August 1st: Head home!
Day One: Claws and Crickets
8:00 am we hit the road. Eastern Oregon brought arid landscapes, with rolling hills as the backdrop. A mostly uneventful drive. When it came time to set up camp, we turned to iOverlander and stumbled upon a quirky spot – an old quarry off the highway. A quiet and secluded spot. As we popped up, we realized we had some unexpected neighbors – thousands of grasshoppers. Undeterred by our insect friends, we embraced the moment, cracked a few White Claws, and drifted off to sleep. The quiet was interrupted by the coyotes serenading us under the Idaho stars. It was an unconventional start, filled with laughter, nature’s quirks, and the promise of more adventure to come.
Day Two: The Downpour
We found ourselves rolling into Jackson in the afternoon, greeted by a winding road that seemed to dance through the surrounding mountains. The road into town offered teases of the Tetons. As we meandered through Jackson, it didn’t take long to understand the city’s popularity. The charm was palpable, with a blend of rustic roots and modern amenities. We visited the Snake River Brewing Co and put their river through our liver with a few pints. Headed to the local REI to buy a real bear box since we didn’t have one and the worries of camping deep in bear country were creeping in the back of my mind. We picked a heavy duty Yeti cooler with the ability to lock and set my nerves at ease. We headed North to find a camp spot, and became completely lost in awe of the Grand. So in awe in fact we were late getting a camp spot and ended up being forced to drive back into Jackson to sleep. Thankful we did too. Driving back we were hit by 60 mile-an-hour winds and rains so hard it would have ripped our tent with us in it clean off the roof of the car. We found a dark side road, put up blankets in the windows and slept (not so soundly) in the Pearl’s front seats.
Day 3 and 4: Yellowstone
A day navigating the winding roads of Yellowstone National Park was like driving through a living tapestry. It felt so good to be back in my favorite park. As we drove, geysers punctuated the skyline sending plumes of steam into the blue sky. The roads twisted and turned, revealing hidden meadows where bison grazed and grunted, completely indifferent to the passing vehicles. Black bears rolled in the grass drawing huge crowds of eager tourists. The scent of pine filled the car as we ventured through dense forests, the sunlight filtering through the towering trees. Hot springs created pockets of vibrant color against the backdrop of the rugged terrain, a surreal palette that seemed to defy the ordinary. We took a few hiking paths to reach mud pots and waterfalls. Ending both days with beautiful sunsets on Henry’s Lake, we were lucky to have a camping spot for both our Yellowstone days right on the water.
Day Five: Creeks and Cabins
Settling into the Big Springs Campground in Montana with the CVT was a true hidden gem in a never ending wilderness. Surrounded by dense trees and the soothing melody of a nearby creek, it became our temporary home under the vast Montana sky. The simplicity of overland camping allowed us to connect with nature in a way that felt both intimate and liberating. Venturing beyond the campground, we visited the historic Johnny Sack’s cabin, a time capsule of Montana’s past. The weathered logs together with handmade nails and rustic charm spoke volumes about the bygone era, offering a glimpse into the pioneering spirit that shaped the region. It was a day where the fusion of overland camping and exploring local history painted a vivid picture of Montana’s untamed beauty and rich heritage. Not to mention the swarm of unbelievably massive trout under the bridge across from Sack’s cabin.
Day Six: Ennis and the Roads to Nowhere
With the birthday drawing near, we wanted to be as close to Bozeman as possible for the surprise lunch the next day. Our journey led us to the quaint town of Ennis, where we paused for lunch at a local brewery, shopped some fly shops and tried to find a camp spot by the Maddison River. With no luck again for camp we embarked on a rugged dirt road that wound its way for miles into the heart of the mountains outside McAllister. Hours of driving over diverse terrain, from dusty trails to rocky paths, unfolded before us as we delved deeper into the landscape. We discovered a small, protected site nestled among massive granite pillars. Had we known about the rocks, Lukas and I would have had our climbing gear with us. It became our secluded haven, a spot chosen by the journey itself. Camping amidst these natural giants was a testament to the untamed beauty and the discoveries that await those who venture off the beaten path.
Day Seven: Surprise!
He had absolutely no idea we were coming, and the sight of all four of us at a local brewery had him in shock. Being states apart makes keeping details hidden pretty easy. Big shout out to his awesome girlfriend Jess for coordinating the whole thing. We hopped from brewery to brewery the rest of the day, drinking and being merry. Sharing Kyle’s first legal drinks as a family. The evening was spent walking around downtown Bozeman and playfully plotting our plan to someday move there.
Day 8: Lake Cutthroat
This day quickly became a cherished chapter in our trip. With the majestic mountain landscape as our backdrop we pursued cutthroat and greyling. The clarity allowed us to sight fish and catch more than we could count. Amidst the success, a sudden thunderstorm forced us to take a break. Taking refuge on under the Pearl’s liftgate, we turned the unexpected pause into a makeshift lunch spot. Raindrops drummed on the roof, we shared stories, laughter, and turned a simple day into a one to remember.
Day Nine: Gallatin Games
We were having too much fun in Bozeman to leave for Glacier National Park. We decided to trade it for fishing on the Gallatin River and another night in Bozeman. Navigating these new waters proved to be a new challenge. The fast-paced currents required precise casts and swift maneuvers to fool the savvy fish. Their calculated movements tested our patience but ultimately we did find success a few times. It was a gorgeous day and the Gallatin has definitely earned its place in my heart.
Day Ten: The Sprint Home
Because we stayed in Bozeman for the extra day to fish, we spent the 1st driving the entire distance home. Was it a long 12.5 hour drive? Yes. Was it worth it? 100%.
If You're Still Here, Thank You For Reading This Far...
From the desert in Idaho, winding roads of Wyoming, to the tranquil meadows of Montana, the trip was not just a physical exploration but a soul-stirring journey. The unexpected moments, shared laughter, and the bond of family became the true essence of the adventure. I am so grateful for trips like these, and for a family that shares passions like spontaneous traveling and fly fishing.
As I wrap up this chapter, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to all the wonderful readers. Your support and engagement have turned these stories into something special. Each comment, like, and shared moment has added depth to our virtual campfire of shared experiences. Thank you for being part of this journey, and I look forward to many more adventures together. Your readership means the world.
Happy Trails and Tight Lines!
Sage
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