Gallatin Crest trail

[David Chenault]

This past Saturday I completed the Devil's Backbone 50 mile ultramarathon, which is a big out and back from Hyalite Creek on the Gallatin Crest. Hiking (I gave up running last year) 50 miles in a day is not what I want to discuss here.

What I want to talk about is the crest trail, which was totally brilliant. Nice, faintish trail, challenging walking, and otherworldy views in all directions. There isn't a ton of water up there, but it would be a primo desination for a day hike or backpack (and would have some reediculous spring skiing).

Here are some topo maps from the race site: http://www.math.montana.edu/~thayes/Runs/Devil/DevilMap.html

I put together a goofy little video of the race: http://vimeo.com/5571872

Them BPL people have a pretty nice backyard!

[Sam Haraldson]

That trail is so excellent that I hiked it twice last summer!

Excellent quote from the movie, "Here's all the stupid people standing around in the cold at the start…" Ha!

I was up hiking the beginning of this route yesterday afternoon and there was still significant snow up on the side of Hyalite Peak. Methinks this is a crazy time to do a 50 mile race atop the mountains!

[David Chenault]

The race director fixed a rope and cut steps through the upper part of the snowfield leading out of the Hyalite cirque, a good safety precaution for those without an alpine background. Coming back down that snowfield at 6 pm was the fastest part of the whole day. Trekking poles make a pretty good ice axe substitute (for braking, not arresting).

[Jason Brinkman]

Alright, you convinced me – I've added it to my list.

[Author]

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