Hiking the Kootenai, 8x10

As forest fire smoke filled the Bitterroot Valley Bob and I decided to see if the narrow gorge surrounding Kootenai Creek might give our eyes and lungs a break.  Sure enough, the air was fresher and the experience was as inspiring as ever.

I've lost count of the number of times we have painted this creek, but it is always timeless and wonderful.....although sometimes frustrating to interpret all that water action.    Rock climbers, kayakers, hikers and really nice painters can be found along the trail.  Sometimes people lose things in the roaring water.  Here is a photo of Cathe Gill and Bob Phinney looking for Cathe's lost silver bracelet several years ago.  Says I, optimistic and encouraging as usual, 'You've got to be kidding!  That thing is nearing the Pacific Ocean by now......'