Arrowleaf Balsamroot Lead Way to Devil's Glen Hike on the Front
 Six Giggers left Great Falls at 7:30 a.m. enroute to Devil’s Glen. After a stop at Mannix General Store in Augusta for a break and snacks, we proceed on. From outside Augusta to the turnoff to the Bean Lake Road, we were treated to stunning fields of Arrowleaf Balsamroot with the towering mountains in the background. Upon arriving at the trail head, we put on our gear and proceeded down the trail which parallels the private road for the first mile. This portion of the trail is on private property. We observed many wildflowers including two orchids: Calypso Orchid past its prime and one Striped Coralroot Orchid at beginning bloom stage. After about a mile, we crossed the bridge over the Dearborn River and stopped for photos and enjoyed the view of Steamboat Mountain and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Dearborn. At this point, we ascended the steepest section of the trail, which passes through open meadows and forested areas. Then, the trail becomes more level with a few ups and downs before reaching Devil’s Glen at 3.5 miles from the trail head. Along the way we stopped for photos of the canyon, waterfalls, and wildflowers. The Mountain Lady Slipper Orchid was the wildflower of the day; we observed it along the trail after crossing the Dearborn Bridge to Devil’s Glen. Many other wildflowers were observed during the day, including a Hoary Balsamroot at the meadow. Upon reaching the meadow, we hiked down to the Glen and ate lunch on the rocks as we enjoyed the sounds and view of the rushing Dearborn. After lunch, we explored a little farther down the trail looking for other possible areas for lunch on future hikes. We decided we ate lunch at the best site. Then, we headed back to our cars. After removing our gear, Jo Ann awarded Carol her 100-mile mug and we took photos. We stopped at the Buckhorn Bar in Augusta for burgers. First time on this hike for Paula O. Who went: Bonnie J, Carol, Jo Ann, Noreen, Paula O, and Randi |  |
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