Ginger, Harman, Alex, Lucas and I just recently got back from Montana and one of the best vacations we’ve ever been on. We were the guests of Northern Rockies Outfitters’ Rich Birdsell on the place I’ve hunted the past couple of years in north central Montana. We had a blast!
For almost five full days, after spending time with Rich and his family in Kalispell and riding through Glacier National Park, we chilled out in the cabins Rich’s hunters use during the hunting season. We rode four wheelers, hiked, grilled and just enjoyed having the entire family together without phones, computers, televisions, etc.
Well, the top of this ranch has always intrigued me from far below as I’ve sat in a tree stand thinking, “One day I’d like to hike to the top of that mountain.” Never in my wildest dream did I think that all five of us could or would make that trek together.
The top of mountain is 6,984 feet above sea level and we started out at roughly 4,000 feet. The hike took us about three hours each way through some of the prettiest country I’ve ever seen. And you wouldn’t believe the amount elk sign from seasons past.
Once at the top, we set up the camera and took a photo that will always remind me of this special moment together. Not only the scenery but knowing that all of us accomplished this feat. Encouraging Ginger and Lucas to not give up. Wow. This year when I go back to whitetail hunt, I can look up at that bald mountain top, above the treeline, and know exactly what it is like up there!
I look forward to sharing with you more pics from the Blanton Montana Adventure in the future.
I'll confess that sometimes us Weterners take for granted the beauty of nature when viewed from the top of a mountain - there's just nothing quite so grand. Glad you were able to share in this moment with your entire family. Those are special moments, indeed.
Hey David,
That is a great story and pic. Look forward to see some more pics. It looks breath taking. I hope one day I'll get to go to Montana to hunt and also have a vacation there with my family. Well I got to go, but I'll talk to ya later.
God Bless & Good Huntin'
Kristle Oberlander
PS: GA deer season is just around the corner and I can't wait.
Those Blanton Boys sure are HOT!!!
Thats awesome david, Looks like a great place to be with your family. I have always wanted to go to montana. I would love to hunt the milk river one day. but ill settle for illinois this year.
Scott Withers-MI
Awesome story and I'm sure you all had a great trip. - Dilbeck
Good lookin family, except that guy on the far left. Where did they find him at. They must get tired of draggin him along.
Don't fret over it David, I know how you feel. It is tough work raising and supporting a beautiful family. It has a tendancy to drain the good looks right out of me. The sacrifices we make, just seem to go unnoticed. Here I go cracking myself up again. Don't worry about your looks David, the Realtree Camo does a great job concealing everything.
I'm just fun'n with ya Dave. Glad you had a good time.
Todd - Indiana
Hey David, that looks like an awsome place. Someday my girlfriend and I are gonna go to Montana for a vacation, or better, to hunt.. We will see.Looking forward to some more pics.. Good luck scouting this preseason.