Distinctly Montana Magazine

D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA N A • FA L L 2 0 1 6 18 DAY FOUR: LENA LAKE TO PENDANT PASS AND UPPER HOLLAND LAKE (7.4 MILES) It's peculiar how easily the wilderness begins to shape us once we remove ourselves from civilization. ere is vulnerability in being in such a remote area, but also a sense of serenity and belonging. Our internal clocks begin to sync with the sun. We eat only when we are hungry. e sound of deer walking throughout camp during the night becomes commonplace; and they are definitely not as stealthy as one would expect. If I have found anything with the ability to shatter the peacefulness of my unity with nature, it is the sound of a bear's roar as it echoes across Lena Lake. With the power to make us all halt mid-conversation to stare in awe and sudden awareness, it didn't precipitate a feeling of fear so much as it instantly demanded respect. We packed up camp much more quickly than usual on that day. Moving northwest to Pendant Cabin, then southwest along Pendant Creek, the trail alternated between silent forests and meadows sprinkled with pollen-drunk bees. Wildflowers were most prevalent on this stretch, and we encountered substantially less blowdown than the day previous. e trail wove along the three Pendant Lakes before a final crossing of the Swan Range — this time via low- lying Pendant Pass. Standing high above Upper Holland Lake once again, we officially exited the Bob Marshall Wilderness for another year. DAYS FIVE AND SIX: UPPER HOLLAND LAKE TO HOLLAND LAKE (6.75 MILES) We spent two nights at Upper Holland Lake before returning to civilization below, doing little more than enjoying time together and reflecting on our shared experience. Introspection occurs most freely when we are at rest, and our journey provided me with even more appre- ciation for the natural wonders surrounding me. To understand Big Sky Country is to explore its vastness, and I have found no better place to learn about our great state — and myself — than while backpacking in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. WORD OF ADVICE Although Upper Holland boasts several established campsites, it can become a busy place on the weekends. To ensure the greatest likelihood of site availability, plan to stay during the middle of the week. Plan a route which allows for flexibility should you encounter unforeseen issues. Take care to preserve the backcountry by leaving no trace of your presence. Pack garbage out, and restore the condition of temporary campsites prior to departure. Panoramic View of Lena Lake

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