October 06, 2016

10-6-16 - Fall in Pony Montana - The Tobacco Root Range

10-6-16 - Fall in Pony Montana - The Tobacco Root Range

The fall always makes me feel a bit nostalgic for one of my favorite places in the world, the Tobacco Roots.

In 1999, I used to live in a small cabin on a ranch outside of Three Forks just a short walk to the Jefferson River. It was here that I solidified my love for Pony and the whole Tobacco Root Range. One of my first stitched film shots, was taken just outside Pony. A simple black and white print that i gave as a gift to the new owners of the Potosi Hot Springs Lodge.

Every day after work, and every single weekend I drove, hiked and rode all over that area...from Harrison to the South Boulder - Mammoth to Whitehall, to Silver Star to Sheridan. Exploring gold mines, peaks, creeks, high alpine lakes, soaking in hot springs, and even early season hiking and skiing the Bell Lake Cirque.  Years later, I took a girl I was dating (now my wife) to camp out at Lost Cabin Lake to share the love I had for this place. Now long ago, I spread the ashes of my best friend in Hollowtop Lake, and have even told my wife that when it is my time, I wish for the same.

They say that distance makes the heart grow fonder, and I have been away for too long, but can always go back by perusing the old photos. Hope to see you soon T-Roots!