Hi families,
It's hard to believe this trip is coming to an end! We've really enjoyed this time with this group of guys. Here's what we've been up to the last few days. Our final morning in the backcountry started early as we packed up camp and hit the trail before the heat of the day set in. Everyone did an incredible job on the hike out, covering 6.5 miles in only about two and a half hours. After eight days in the wilderness, the group was moving quickly and looking forward to clean clothes, showers, and a good meal.
Once we reached the trailhead, we unpacked our bags, changed into fresh clothes, and made generous use of deodorant. We loaded everything onto the bus and began the drive toward Missoula. After some group discussion, Jersey Mike's was chosen as our first meal back in civilization. Before lunch, we stopped to get several loads of laundry started. We then headed to Jersey Mike's, where everyone was more than ready for a big sandwich, chips, and a cold drink. After lunch, we spent the afternoon swimming and showering at Currents Aquatic Center. It felt great to cool off, clean up, and relax after our time on the trail.
Feeling much cleaner and refreshed, we returned to the Bob Marshall Outpost for the evening. We settled back into camp, organized our gear, and enjoyed bratwursts for dinner. It was a relaxed night and a well-earned chance for everyone to rest after completing the backcountry portion of the expedition.
The following morning, we were up early once again, this time preparing for a float on the Missouri River. The fishing was excellent, with plenty of action throughout the day. Crawfish and sow bug patterns were especially productive and kept the group busy catching fish. After the miles and challenges of the backcountry, it was a great way to settle back into life on the water and continue the adventure together.
As we head into the final stretch of this expedition, it's hard not to step back and appreciate just how special this group has been. We've watched these guys grow both on and off the water — their casting is certainly sharper, their reads of the river are more confident, and their willingness to push through hard days on the trail speaks to their character. Just as rewarding has been watching new friendships form. Guys who didn't know each other two weeks ago now act like a team that's been together for years. It's a cool thing to see. Tonight we'll have our banquet dinner at Trixi's, I expect there will be some good stories and lots of laughs. Tomorrow we'll send them back home to you all. We'll miss this crew! Thanks for sending some really awesome young men.
Until next time,
Drew, Adrian, Jackson, and the guys.
