Winding down our time in Montana was fittingly fantastic.  The wrap up session began with us FINALLY having an opportunity to paddle board from Big Arm to Wild Horse Island which we estimate to be about a 6-8 mile round trip paddle.

Chillin’ on Wild Horse Island

We didn’t plan on making the trek, but when we went down for a casual trip on the lake the weather was perfect and the water was glassed over; we had to give it a go.  The fact that it was spontaneous made the triumph of reaching the island all the better.

Jewel Basin – Mt. Aeneas – 6 Mile round trip elevating 1,700 ft

Our final hike in Montana ended up kicking off at the same trailhead from which we began our outdoor adventures: Camp Misery.  There are a bunch of hikes that begin at this location and along with the various trail options an explosion of autumn colors provided for a completely unique and beautiful experience in the Jewel Basin.

The hike up to Mt. Aeneas elevates quickly and provides for an unbelievable view of the Flathead Valley including the entire 27 mile length of Flathead Lake.

As we continued to climb the visibility became more limited

And by the time we arrived at the summit we were completely surrounded by the clouds.

During our descent the clouds dissipated and the fall colors never ceased to impress.

For the remainder of our final week we lit our last fire on the property enjoying the breathtaking view that NEVER got old

Took our final bike ride down and up the massive hill leading to the house

I was really tired!

Enjoyed a final evening hanging out by the lake

And had a goodbye party with our neighbors.

While the horses were disappointed, they accepted our departure; the cattle on the other hand seemed to be angry.

It was a bit of a downer knowing this would be our final trot down Walking Horse Lane, however our reflection of the journey thus far left us feeling larger than life.

And just like that, a familiar combination of sadness and excitement reared its head as we packed up for the next part of our adventure.

Our final morning was graced by a gorgeous sunrise.

And just like that it was time to say goodbye.

Leaving is always tough, but the fun continues.

That sentiment was exemplified when an hour into our drive south to Colorado, we continued the essence of our journey with our exploration of Montana’s Ewam and Garden of One Thousand Buddha’s.

Definitely not what you’d expect to see in middle-of-nowhere Montana, but amazing nonetheless.

Montana, it’s truly been an incredible experience and we fully plan on returning for round two.

Forever Grateful!