3 Highlights:
- Amazing views on various peaks that I climbed.
- Reaching Ennis Lake.
- Interaction with locals.
Daily Summary:
- Distance hiked: 55 km
- Starting point: On top of Ramshorn Mountain
- Ending point: Ennis Lake
- Weather conditions: Hot
Daily Reflections (challenges, insights, musings):
Today started beautifully as I hiked down from my camping spot. I hit a dirt road and felt a bit disappointed at the long stretch ahead, but the distant mountains provided some solace. Along the way, I encountered several friendly locals, exchanging greetings which lifted my spirits. The road gradually ascended and led to a path that took me up to 2800 meters, nearly reaching 2900 meters over a 20 km stretch. This was where I stopped for lunch, drying my tent and sleeping bag from last night’s rain. After a deep rest and meditation, I continued my descent.
The descent was long, and I soon found myself on another dirt road that climbed from 1700 to 2300 meters. I managed to get some mobile reception and had a brief call with Essi. Later, I ran into more people, including some cowboys who inquired about my hydration status. Just as I started to feel the water stress, I heard a stream nearby. I gratefully took off my shoes and refreshed myself in the water around 7 PM after hiking 47 km.
Without a real plan, I considered aiming for Emma Lake, but it seemed too far. Fortunately, a kind family from California offered me a short ride, taking me 3-4 km down the road. The mother was a consultant and coach, much like myself—a delightful coincidence. From there, it was another 8 km hike to the lake, which I reached around 10 PM.
Ennis Lake, where the river flows into Madison River, is a fly-fisherman’s paradise. Despite the presence of many fishermen, the area was peaceful. I was exhausted but captivated by the high peaks surrounding the lake, including Big Sky ski resort, where I’ll resupply at the bottom of the mountain. Over and out, I’m utterly spent but ready for what tomorrow brings.
