March to the arch hike

So, we hiked Blodgett Falls last weekend and the rock arch to the south was pointed out to us. We just knew we had to get up there, so this weekend we did it. We hiked 3 miles to the pack bridge on the trail and then had to start bush-whacking off trail to get up there. This is me as we got to the pack bridge...all excited and enthusiastic about the climb. The arch is in the box!


So, we headed up and had to bust our way through some pretty thick trees. It was difficult at best, so instead of heading directly up, we proceeded a bit laterally until we got to a big rock slide. We started climbing up rocks and followed a waterfall up. It was difficult at best. 2 hours later we were here:

Okay, we seriously considered going home at this point as it had taken us SO long to get here and the rocks above seemed so daunting and steep. We took a vote and decided to get to the arch, for that was what we came here to do.

Getting closer.....

Finally, we made it to the arch! So beautiful and quiet up there. It really is a spectacular place to live in the Bitterroot Valley. Stay tuned for more hiking pics.

Here we are under the arch!