As we drove in to Triple J Wilderness Ranch we all wanted to get our cameras out and start capturing this idyllic scene.
In a couple of panoramic views we saw aspen trees, pine trees, a rambling road, lots of horses (I bet there are 100) and a beautiful log lodge and cabins. All of this was surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains. I took many outside photos of the cabins and lodge, also inside photos.
One of the wranglers helped get our luggage to our cabins and we all walked in different directions soaking up the sights, sounds and aromas of the forest and mountains.
Most of us were making notes of questions to ask our hosts, Kim and Ernie Barker.
I soon figured out that all of the horses I saw, well, most were horses but some were mules. They use mules for their pack string when they take guests into the Bob Marshall Wilderness. If we have time we might get a lesson on how the wranglers pack the mules before taking off on a wilderness vacation. Although I’m not doing a pack trip I realized how much luggage I brought and I’m thankful I don’t need to offer these mules an apology for having to tote all of my necessities. Or what I think is a necessity! I am prepared for changing weather though and I have new cowboy boots for riding. It has taken me two weeks of walking around in these boots at home to break them in and I’m excited to wear them for the intended purpose. The only thing I lack to really look the part of a dude is a cowboy hat. Cowboy hats just aren’t for me!