Vast Wilderness: Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

Past the smoke, past the ledge, past the old map’s folded edge, some treasures buried, some treasures found, some never needed leaving the ground. Follow cold water where hidden creeks speak, past granite and pine toward the shoulder of peak. Through lodgepole shadow and meadow-wide ground, where elk leave their letters without making a sound. Old mines whisper through timber and stone, of silver and gold and fortunes unknown. Pick marks and tailings still scar the old seam, but X may point past the prospector’s dream. Perhaps treasure travels on four little feet, where nose, trail, and thyme mysteriously meet. Three tall white socks, one blue eye catching light, Pipe reads what the mountain refuses to write. Past smoke, past fire, black slowly turns green, new life pushes through every charcoal-black seam. Look for the X, but leave what you’ve found, some treasures stay hidden because they belong in the ground. Peace. Piece. Peas. Mr. E & Justin Thyme

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Good scenic drive.