Hey Families!
The Guides and the Guys checking in with a wet and wonderful update from base camp!
We'll be honest — Mother Nature has not been playing nice. The past couple of days have brought some seriously unruly weather, with rain that just doesn't seem to want to quit. But here's the thing: your boys have been absolutely remarkable. We're talking minimal complaints, positive attitudes, and a genuine willingness to roll with whatever the mountains throw at them. We could not be more proud.
Yesterday, we took advantage of a break in the clouds to head down to the Blackfoot River for some hands-on science, collecting salmon fly samples as part of our salmon fly project. We found loads of bugs and even a couple little fish — it was pretty sweet. We wrapped the day back at the wall tent playing games, practicing knots, and generally enjoying each other's company. The energy in camp has been something special. These guys already feel like a crew that's been together for weeks, not days. The bonds forming out here are real.
Today we pulled off a little surprise — a trip into Missoula for a day at the water park! After all that rain, it felt only right to let them get properly soaked on their own terms. And once again, the guys came through. Their behavior in town was genuinely outstanding — respectful, polite, and a true reflection of the kind of young men they are. We heard more than a few compliments from people around them, and we weren't surprised one bit.
Tonight the rain is finally supposed to clear out, and we'll be sleeping at Copper Creek just down the road from the trailhead. Tomorrow morning, we lace up the boots and begin our hike into the backcountry toward Heart Lake. The adventure is just getting started!
More updates to come from the wilderness!
The Guides and the Guys
