Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Siyeh Pass Trail - WOW!

We did many small hikes to build up to a longer hike.  This was it!  Siyeh Pass is the highest elevation trail in Glacier Park at 8080 feet.  I believe we had gained 2100 + feet in elevation before descent into Baring Creek valley to Sunrift Gorge.  It was incredible!  It is rated one of the best day hikes in the country.

We decided to go on a guided tour.  Preston Park, an high alpine meadow with lots of wildflowers,  is an area known for bear and it is recommended to hike in groups.  I'm still a little nervous about the bear!   Steve normally yells, "Bears come eat Cheryl!".   There was only one drawback of the guided tour, the one who became known as "the talker".  There was one gent who talked incessantly!  When the group of 8 wasn't enjoying the views, they were avoiding "the talker".   It was funny. 

The one drawback of the hike itself was the 700 ft of switchbacks.  It wasn't an issue for me but was an issue for Steve (height apprehension again!).    He kept his head down and watched the person's heels in front of him.   Because of his courage and field work (noticed rock turned over by bear), he was awarded Junior Ranger, an honor usually bestowed on 12 year olds.  We had a great guide.  She was awesome and a lot of fun!

Proud Junior Ranger!
Steve and I both agree we have never seen anything as beautiful as the views seen on the hike (and it was free!).  It was worth every sore muscle we have today!  The light wasn't good for pictures but will share them anyway.

Purdy!

Preston Park meadow


Siyeh Creek (I think)  with Piegan mountain and glacier as backdrop

These next two pictures are from the 700 ft switchbacks.  I wanted picture of views but Steve had camera during hike up..lol


This is looking back off trail on Matahpi


You can see blue water from glacier dust
Looking out over cliff ledge (after ascent)
View from other side of cliff (begin of descent into Baring Creek valley - Sexton Glacier is to right)

St Mary's Lake below and you can see hike trail


Closer view of Sexton Glacier with falls


Picture from trail

Falls created by glacier and snow melt

Gorge where all water we followed down trail ends up
It was a balmy 47 degrees and raining this morning.  We will be going to get pie and tshirts today!


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