Black Mountain Aug 19 2023

I've been trying to get some modest hiking in most days of late but today, I set a bigger target: Black Mountain Fire tower trail.  It's only 1.5 miles but has and elevation gain of about 700 ft.  Trailhead is at the end of as gnarly forest Service road with deep ruts, big rocks, etc.  It starts at 8,800 ft and tops out at 9,500 ft.  So, if you're not acclimated to the altitude it would be super difficult. 

wildfire smoke cut visibility to about 30% of ideal but it was stunning nonetheless.   I imagine you could see a hundred miles to the eastern Praries on a good day.  Anyway, I did the climb in about an hour whereas Brian could do it in half that, if he took his time.

Went to The little Bighorn battlefield yesterday.   97 degrees but with a strong wind that made it feel like 96 degrees- darned hot.  Gravestones are scattered here and there where soldiers fell and there is a more traditional military graveyard that includes a surprising number of "his wife" markers and not a few children. 

The area is grassy but but lacking trees or even bushes.  No rock outcroppings or other structures to take cover.  Just open.  1,500 Indians vs. about 400 US Cavalry.  "Custer's Last Stand" is barely mentioned, the credit being more broadly shared amongst the many participants.   Last Stand Hill for example, where Custer died doesn't bear his name.  It was intriguing to actually been at the place I've always heard so much about. 

Will explore more of the North Tongue River today.