BUTTE-BIG SKY CUTOFF

The last two weeks since Yellowstone have been different. Since we took the Butte-Big Sky Cutoff, we have done a lot of roadwalking. Quicker miles but hard on the feet and legs. Our daily mileage average was 23 miles a day, not as fast as most CDT hikers but fast for us! One sad effect is that I’m experiencing shin splints again in my left leg. Fingers crossed it doesn’t become too painful.

Along the Cutoff we passed through a number of small towns: Whitehall, Ennis, and Harrison. All very hospitable and welcoming. We spent the night in the town hall in Whitehall, next door to the fire station in Harrison. Lots of diners and ice cream. All in all, a good time.

Today is our last zero-miles rest day, in Helena. Tomorrow we begin the last stretch: Helena to Lincoln to The Bob Marshall Wilderness to Glacier National Park to FINISH! I’m not sure what to expect along the way, “The Bob” is over 130 miles long and remote. We’ll be carrying eight days of food, one of the heaviest food hauls of our trip. From looking at other hikers’ photos, the landscape looks like some steep climbs mixed with rolling hills. Definitely at a lower elevation than Colorado, with more oxygen and easier breathing.

​Will hopefully post next week. We’re spending more time in the woods, less in town. Onward!!