Distinctly Montana Magazine

w w w . d i s t i n c t l y m o n t a n a . c o m 15 between mile markers 85 and 55. Larches are so numerous and precisely spaced in some regions that the contrast between larch at peak color and neighboring conifers is reminiscent of a checkerboard pattern. Portions of Highway 93 that most closely flank the White- fish Range exude a Glacier-like ambience, one that warrants further scrutiny. Hikers will be delighted to learn that pure stands of alpine larch exist near the summit of Nasukoin Mountain, the highest peak in the Whitefish Range, as well as the Ten Lakes Scenic Area, roughly one mile north of Bluebird Lake, via the Ten Lakes Loop trail. If, heaven forbid, you could devote only two days to larch hunting, I recommend that you divide your time equally between the North Fork area in Glacier and the stunning Seeley-Swan valley. Nestled between the Swan Range on the east and the Mission Mountains to the west, Montana High- way 83 follows the Swan and Clearwater rivers from Bigfork to Clearwater Junction, which is 33 miles east of Missoula on MT 200. Roadside views of the high country are rare along this route, so savor the drive through tall timber. This region is revered by fall-foliage enthusiasts for good reason. As it traverses this picturesque valley from Bigfork south to Seeley Lake, Highway 83 gradually gains approximately 1,200 feet in elevation. From north to south, western larches also become increasingly numerous along this corridor and, at the time of our visit (October 30, 2020), exhibited a corresponding progression in their proximity to peak color. Landscape photographers should take advantage of pull- outs at mile markers 57 and 44, which afford excellent views of the highest peaks in the Swan Range. From the latter pullout to mile markers 40-41, timber opens up more fre- quently, thus providing impressive glimpses of the Swans to the east and Mission Mountains to the west, which compete alternately and with good effect for your attention. Fall-foliage aficionados will regard the southernmost third of Highway 83 and, particularly, the James Girard Memorial Grove as the capstone of an excursion to the Seeley-Swan valley. One of the finest old-growth larch forests in the United States, the Girard Grove is located at the outlet of Seeley Lake. From mile marker 14, turn right onto Boy Scout Road. After 2.4 miles, you will cross a bridge, where Seeley Lake empties into the Clearwater River. Shortly thereafter, a small pullout is available on the left, near a couple of interpretive signs, which identify the Girard Memorial Grove. This arboreal cathedral inspires contemplation, reflec- tion, even introspection. Here you stand among giants that have silently witnessed centuries of human activity. The DOUG STEVENS

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