The sun slouched behind the jagged peaks cradling Saint Mary Lake, smearing the sky with molten orange and lazy lavender. A soft breeze skimmed the water, sending ripples toward the shore as we rode in our tourist boat, the hush of waves against the hull the only sound. She rested her head on my shoulder, our fingers woven together like ivy on an old fence, both mesmerized by the mountains’ perfect reflection in the glassy lake. The air, sharp with pine and damp earth, felt worlds away from the honking chaos they’d left behind. And in that quiet, wrapped in the vastness of Glacier National Park, our love felt just as steady, just as endless.
Glacier National Park’s legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road, winding through rugged peaks and jaw-dropping vistas, is a must for any road tripper craving epic mountain scenery. From the breathtaking heights of Logan Pass to the untamed wilderness stretching in every direction, this iconic drive delivers nonstop beauty. Whether you’re chasing golden September light for landscape photography, filming an adventure documentary, or simply soaking in one of America’s most stunning national parks, this scenic highway belongs on every bucket list. Ready for an unforgettable outdoor escape? Montana’s calling.
There I was, chilling trailside, just taking it all in, and bam! Along came Bill, my other half, blasting past me on his bike like he was gearing up for the Red Bull Hardline. And let’s be real—Bill isn’t exactly your Sunday morning pedal-pusher; when he’s in the zone, he’s all about that need for speed. It’s quite the sight, to be honest. It kind of gives you a little burst of pride, watching someone you know just totally crush it. You go, Bill! ~Mo
Clutching the remote like it’s the last piece of pizza on game night, and barricading ourselves indoors feels a bit overkill these days. The world, stripped of the cacophony of do’s and don’ts, red tape, and 24/7 news cycles, somehow feels like slipping into your favorite hoodie—comfortable and just right. It’s as if we’re surfing through life’s hurdles, crafted by someone who’s an absolute wizard with a sewing kit. But honestly, isn’t that the case for all of us?
Shrugging off the whole rebel vibe, or maybe just overlooking the itch for an escape from what some call the world’s circus, why not nix the whole virtual voyage to Rattlesnake Creek concept? Picture it: a jungle of laws, a straightjacket of regulations, just you trapped in a shoebox—sounds like a horror flick for the free spirits among us. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for playing by the book, but there’s something about throwing in the towel and settling for the snug fit of constraints that just doesn’t sit right. And let’s be real, we’re all in the same boat! I’ll just be over here, pouring one out for the dreamers.
And then, waving off the thought of meditation—talk about watching paint dry, right? Fantasizing about being miles away from the tranquil, yet terribly silent, Rattlesnake Creek, cocooned in the humdrum of a cookie-cutter routine, is practically a high-five to conformity. It’s like willingly walking into a mind maze, choosing to wrestle with the world’s frenzy by diving headfirst into a pool of our own mental clutter.
The stuffy feel of a room that’s seen better days, the eerie quiet that’s louder than any concert, and the noticeable lack of anything remotely wild—it’s the polar opposite of nature’s grand concert, and frankly, every spa playlist or meditation app pales in comparison. It’s a nudge, reminding us that maybe, just maybe, embracing the tight grip of our grumbles, societal handcuffs, and expectations might just mean keeping our peepers wide open and staying put. Because, surprise, it’s a universal theme! I’m here, dutifully following every decree, courtesy of the powers that be.
So, how about we skip the zen session? Let’s all take a deep breath, hold it, and for a sec, just be, miles away from the mythical Rattlesnake Creek, in a space where our souls feel as boxed in and regulated as the great outdoors we’re overlooking. Maybe, in these instants of self-imposed exile, we’ll unearth the mojo to saunter through the simplicity of life with a bit less elegance and a tad more resolve to stick to our lanes (liberating, it ain’t). At the end of the day, it’s about sidestepping our own journeys around life’s literal and figurative rattlesnakes. It’s the same song and dance for us all … catch you on the flip side.
Ah, embarking on a Google Photos slideshow feels like being promised a spaceship but getting a quirky vintage car instead. It’s our digital scrapbook, brilliantly baffling, capturing memories that are both precious and occasionally infuriating. In my latest digital escapade, I tackled the Copperway Trail in Anaconda, Montana, a true test of resilience against nature’s raw beauty and the unexpected challenges of fat biking, envisioned as a fluffy marshmallow ride, yet feeling more like a medieval torture device in disguise.
Navigating Google Photos to document this adventure was just me being lazy and seemingly always out of time. The Copperway Trail, with its smooth paths and chilling views with Silverbow Creek, offered a backdrop for an odyssey that tested both spirit and spine.
So, here’s to the Copperway Trail: may its wild, untamed beauty forever live on in our digital albums, a testament to adventure and the enduring power of resilience …o/o
On this day in history, a delightful journey through the archives:
2023: A Poem – A contemplative poem inspired by the coastal grasses and dead trees, musing on the stories of life that remain untold and what lies beyond the seas.
2016: WNA 32 – Rollin Fatties up Olsen – A recount of the steady growth of WNA number 32, where two strong cyclists showed up, marking the continuation of a weekly tradition.
2015: Posers – An arduous climb up Avalanche Peak in Yellowstone Park, where a tiny cute creature and the strong winds made for a memorable and desolate adventure.
2012: My piece of solitude – Revisiting an old friend, a trail that brings back single track skills memories, and an encounter with a private plow truck on an icy road.
2012: Fallen – Observing the melancholy beauty of trees on Pipestone Pass, where one fallen tree seems to evoke despair in its companion.
2010: Morning Trail – Capturing a quintessential Missoula moment for any mountain biker, “Morning Trail” highlights the beauty of South Sentinel as dawn breaks.
2009: Dirt Coalition – Sharing aspirations to join the GT Dirt Coalition, and catching up on the internet during a rest break from a decent block of training.
2008: Hard Miles – A recount of a challenging 60-mile ride up route 200 in the rain, bringing about a sense of unexpected energy and strength.
2007: Lolo Pass Ride – An ambitious 66.1-mile journey to Lolo Pass, featuring around 5,000 feet of climbing and a cramp that led to late-night blogging.
2007: I Just Keep Ending up Here! – A cozy moment at the Break Espresso, savoring a Carmel roll and a cup of Joe, a simple pleasure amidst biking adventures.
2006: Turah Turah Ride Tonight – Reflecting on a great training ride to Turah and back, feeling good all the way home compared to a previous exhausting experience.
2006: New Pictures Uploaded – The challenge of organizing and uploading pictures likened to herding caffeinated cats, all while chilling at Break Espresso.
2003: What I really Want – A moment of technological simplification, desiring only the essentials like a new camera and a powerbook for summer adventures.
2002: Emotional Alchemy – Sharing the anticipation for a book called “Emotional Alchemy,” following an outstanding mountain bike ride and a need for rest.
This curated list of blog posts offers a glimpse into my biking adventures, poetic reflections, and life’s simple moments, painting a vivid picture of the journey through years.
That night seemed ordinary, with the moonlight painting the beach silver. But the sea had surprises in store.
Walking by the shore, we spotted a struggling crab, missing a claw, battling the tides. Feeling for the little guy, we aimed to return it to the ocean, imagining it thanked us with its good claw.
But as we neared the water, a rogue wave hit us out of nowhere, turning our calm evening into a wet, sandy mess. We lost the crab in the confusion but, luckily, the sea took it back, albeit more dramatically than intended.
Soaked and laughing, we learned a lesson: nature’s always in charge. Our crab friend’s ordeal ended safely (not really, he was missing a claw, and the experience left us with damp clothes and a story to tell. It was a night of good intentions, unexpected turns, and the sea’s final say, reminding us of its mysterious dominance.
On this day in history, we’ve got a collection of tales and adventures. Dive into these memorable moments:
As the sun painted the sky with warm hues, Mo and I found ourselves immersed in the tranquil beauty of Salt Creek County Park. The tide pools unveiled a hidden world, teeming with fascinating marine creatures and vibrant colors. Each photo we captured was a frozen moment in time, a testament to the magic of the coast.The gentle soundtrack of the waves provided the perfect backdrop as we ventured through this coastal paradise. It was a visual symphony, and every frame in the video is a note in that harmonious composition.
I can’t wait to share this visual tale on my blog. It’s not just a video – it’s a heartfelt narrative that invites others to experience the wonder of the Washington coast through our eyes. Thank you for creating such a captivating piece of art, and I’m excited to see the magic it weaves in the hearts of those who watch it.
The wind sings salty secrets through the beach grass, urging me forward as I mount my trusty steed – a fat bike, its wide tires hungry for the unique crunch of Fort Warden’s sand-and-pebble blend. It’s late afternoon, the sun a molten orb flirting with the cool blue canvas of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This isn’t just any beach, mind you; it’s a haven for fat bike enthusiasts, and I, with a grin wider than the tires themselves, am ready to claim my playground.
My ride becomes a dance with the tide. The sand, firm and forgiving at low water, sings a different tune under the high tide’s wet brush. But my tires, those trusty behemoths, float effortlessly, skimming atop the surface like surfers on sapphire waves. This isn’t just transportation; it’s an exhilarating ballet, my pedals keeping time with the rhythmic crash of the surf, a symphony composed by the elements.
Suddenly, a rogue wave, bolder than its brethren, rises like a liquid wall. A surge of adrenaline, and I lean with the wind, steering a daring path along its crest, feeling the spray kiss my face like a baptism of brine. This, this is the heart of Fort Warden’s magic – the thrill of testing your limits, a playful duel with the sea’s untamed spirit.
But as the sun dips lower, casting long, lazy shadows across the beach, the scene transforms. The sky ignites in a fiery tango of oranges and pinks, mimicking the dance of flames within my chest. The water reflects the spectacle, turning molten gold, and for a moment, I’m riding through a living masterpiece. I stop, breathe in the salty air, and let the waves’ lullaby wash over me, a melody of peace amidst the grandeur.
This, my fellow fat bike adventurers, is a reminder: timing is everything. Low tide brings a firmer stage, but the high tide’s rhythm adds a touch of wild grace. Check the charts, plan your adventure, and prepare to be swept away.
Fort Warden isn’t just a beach; it’s a canvas where tires paint stories, waves compose symphonies, and the sun orchestrates a daily masterpiece. So come, dance with the elements, ride the waves, and discover the peace that whispers on the edge of land and sea.
2012: Rest Week (https://williammartin.com/2012/02/01/rest-week/) – Reflecting on the need for rest and rejuvenation, as Winnie the bear and Christopher Robin navigate challenges and friendships.
There’s something almost mythical about waterfalls. The thundering cascade, the mist hanging like a curtain, the sunlight sparking rainbows – it’s nature’s IMAX masterpiece. And for us shutterbugs with boots for ballet shoes and cameras slung like trusty sidekicks, capturing this drama becomes a siren song we can’t resist.
The jungle trail unfurls like a green python, whispering secrets in the humid air. Sunlight filters through a canopy denser than a dragon’s hoard, each leaf a jewel dripping emerald light. Every now and then, a rogue raindrop smacks my cheek, a playful reminder of the rainforest’s mischievous spirit. But my focus is unwavering, fueled by the distant roar that echoes through the foliage – the roar of a hidden waterfall.
The path steepens, a tangle of roots and slippery rocks testing my resolve. My trusty boots, scarred veterans of countless treks, grip the earth with determined groans. There’s sweat, there’s muttered grumbles (okay, maybe a few choice words about the particularly stubborn patch of mud), and yes, there’s a moment of full-blown “hiker-pouting” when a particularly treacherous vine sends me sprawling.
But then, the sound swells, crescendoing into a symphony of crashing water. My heart quickens, not just from the exertion, but from the thrill of the approaching spectacle. And then, I’m there.
Emerging from the emerald embrace of the jungle, the world opens up to reveal a breathtaking tableau. A waterfall, a liquid silver serpent, dances down moss-covered cliffs, its thunderous roar shaking the very air. Sunlight paints rainbows across the mist, ephemeral jewels glittering against the emerald backdrop. It’s a scene so exquisite, so raw, that my breath catches in my throat.
This is why I trek. This moment, this perfect confluence of nature’s power and beauty, captured forever in a single click.
As I set up my tripod, carefully choosing the angle, a sense of serenity washes over me. The struggle, the minor mishaps, they fade away, leaving only the quiet satisfaction of the journey and the joy of anticipation. It’s a metaphor for life, isn’t it? The challenges, the stumbles, the moments of doubt – they’re all part of the path that leads us to these breathtaking moments, these waterfalls of the soul.
The memory card, now brimming with liquid poetry, tucks safely into my backpack. On the return journey, my steps are lighter, my gaze drawn upwards to the vibrant canopy. My mind wanders, already plotting the next adventure, the next hidden waterfall waiting to be unveiled. Because once you’ve tasted the spray of nature’s drama, once you’ve chased rainbows across misty cliffs, there’s no turning back. The call of the wild, the song of the waterfalls, it echoes forever in the trekker’s soul.
So, fellow adventurers, lace up your boots, polish your lenses, and let’s chase those rainbows together. May our trails be muddy, our views breathtaking, and our lenses forever hungry for nature’s grand, glittering spectacles.
Remember, the waterfall may seem distant, the climb may seem daunting, but trust me, the view from the top is worth every drop of sweat, every muttered curse, every epic case of “hiker-pouting.” So grab your camera, your compass, and your adventurous spirit, and let’s chase those waterfalls!
On this day in history:
2024: Rainforest – Exploring Waterfalls and Jungle Trails – There’s something almost mythical about waterfalls. The thundering cascade, the mist hanging like a curtain, the sunlight sparking rainbows – it’s nature’s IMAX masterpiece. And for us shutterbugs with boots for ballet shoes and cameras slung like trusty sidekicks, capturing this drama becomes a siren song we can’t resist. The jungle trail unfurls like a…
2017: Between – Balancing Adventure and Work – Our winter life involves fat biking and skiing to cabins. In the summer bike packing and other interesting stuff. But not always. In between we have to work. Self sponsored adventure requires an income. So we do mundane bullshit work in between the weekends. I wonder though… I wonder. What if we quit those…
2012: So done with driving – Reflecting on the Time and Cost of Commuting – If you think about it, commuting is the biggest waste of time in a human life. If you travel to and from your job for 1 hour a day, that is like 250 hours of driving. 250 hours of not only wasted time to live but it costs you as well in the pocket book…
2008: Snow Biking – Exploring Snowy Trails – Check out the map! Finally got out on an official ride. Only got to the end of the Kim Williams Trail because beyond that the recent rains have made a crust that when broken through in snow over a foot deep was hard to pedal through. This bike would be a hoot on snowmobile trails…
2005: Back From Squaw, Week in Review – Tech Troubleshooting and Adventures – Mom’s computer was last week’s big project. She sent me her computer and I diagnosed it as having a bad CPU fan. It was making a huge racket because the bearings went out due to dirt and dust clogging the heat sink. Well, that is my diagnosis. I ordered her a new fan, heat sink, and a CD burner…
2004: Mount Mansfield This Weekend – Solo Snowshoeing Adventure – This weekend I plan to do a summit on Saturday morning on Mount Mansfield. Marcy will probably stay home and I’ll go solo. I plan to snowshoe the long trail to the Chin and then back to the car. In an emergency, I’ll try to use the Taft Lodge. UPDATE: I did make it…
2003: Natures Primary Colors – Musings on Nature and Beliefs – I have a few comments on nature’s primary colors. We each have the freedom to define, and understand, our world around us – as we choose. That means we should not bring our natural affiliation into our human groups. It means that we do not try to impose our beliefs, or our understanding of the…
2001: Went Skate Skiing Anyway – Rainy Day Skiing – Today it is raining, but I went skate skiing anyway. I have homework up to my neck so I’m booked up today with that and as always updating my school pages.
I stood at Ruby Beach a digital refugee. No filter could capture the emerald fury of the waves, the driftwood symphony underfoot, the whispering embrace of the salty air.
Seagulls squawked like paparazzi, sunbeams danced on ruby-kissed sand, and the ocean’s roar drowned out the static of daily life. In that wild symphony, I found my rhythm.
No Instagram likes needed. Nature’s spectacle unfolded, unapologetically raw and real. A sea otter pirouetted in the kelp, sun-warmed driftwood beckoned for stories, and the vast horizon whispered promises of endless possibility.
My cracked screen reflected a truth: sometimes, the best view comes when you put down the lens. When you let go of the curated facade and simply be present.
So, ditch the filters, adventurers. Embrace the messy magic of the world. Let the wind tousle your hair, the sand fill your shoes, and the untamed beauty of nature crack open your heart. Ruby Beach awaits, not for your perfect shot, but for your open spirit.
On This Day in History
Here’s a fascinating journey through the historical blog posts:
2023: Missoula peril – I’m trying my best to find a way to enjoy Missoula. Now that everything is covered in ice I have ordered studded tires. And studded sneakers. And now that I have studded tires, the weather has warmed up and now it’s just slushy. So when I buy a canoe, it will snow again. But at…
2018: Trying Something Diffrent – We have skis so why not go skiing? Is it not good to not get all caught up in one activity? So then we should take a break from biking and go skiing. And for that, we choose a nice little adventure in the Moser area. In the summer we go mountain biking there so a nice…
2017: Dropper Post – No sunrise this morning. No options to recreate since it was too deep to hike and no solidity to ride fat. Enter the Clue Epic. A epic series of 12 Clue games to determine just who was the best sleuth in the Beaverheads. Today was our last day and we contemplated just staying. I mean…
2012: Pacing debunked – The thing I will remember most about the 2012 OSCR 50K is that for the first time I actually “paced’ myself the results were unexpected. I thought I would post the fastest personal time ever. Instead I was a half an hour slower then when I went out and “blew up” half way through he…
2011: No sliders – The group stuck together and the topics dancing in the air had nothing to do with cross country skiing. There was theories on proper traction, screwing shoes, taxes, jewelry, Alden’s crashes, and other light hearted stuff. Lydia gave us a rendition of WalMart counter people and their complete outdoor ignorance. For me it was the highlight…
2009: 2009 Muleterro Sponsorship Packet Now Available – This just in! My teammate Rich Shattuck (a survivor of the RMVQ) has sent out the 2009 Muleterro Sponsorship Packet in which he has put together for the team. If you want exposure in Montana, Idaho, and Beyond this is highly recommended. You can get it off my site here or from http://teammuleterro.com here for the…
2008:
Laundry Night – Tonight is laundry night and I decided to use the bike to do it with instead of starting up the car for a trip down Higgins Avenue. We are due for another big snow storm and it is supposed to hit tomorrow. I’ll be on my bike!
The K2 is Back – Yesterday I spent the entire day scrounging old parts and putting together a bike I can go brutally beat up on this winter. I have got to ride! I was able to do the Sentinel Fire Road trail last night at 9:30 PM!
Hello From The OSCR – I did my personnel best from 5.5 of last year to 3.5 3:34:29 this year. Had a great time and the view during the race can not be matched. I would like to do this loop (OSCR Loop) during the summer on the mountain bike. I think the main climb may be around 2,000 feet…
2007: The Day After The 60K – This week I have skied 60k (37.3 miles) but have only cycled 18 miles. Is this the bizaro world or what? I have not been outside all day. I plan to go outside since the sun is trying to poke it’s way through my blinds asking me to play. My ankle is sore and I…
2004: Dad and Chemo – “Hi just a up date on dad, Fri evening the sick feeling hit him and left us scrambling to the pharmacy to fill a prescription that he was to fill earlier but didnt. Well Sat. morning at 9:30 we finally got the med. after he’d spent a nauseated night! He had a sleepless night Friday…
2001: Adding Pages For School – Today I am adding some pages for the classes that I am currently taking. This helps me in school as well. The pages are mainly accessible from this page as well as my main page. The networking page is almost complete. I wonder what Paul is doing right now?
In Westport, WA, we found where the ocean talks to your heart. We began by wandering the marina, hearing fishermen’s sea yarns. The lighthouse, rich in stories, and a museum full of history were our stops.
The wave platform was a showstopper. More than a structure, it framed the sea’s spectacular ballet. Waves rose and fell in a mesmerizing rhythm, with wind and spray adding to the magic. We got lost in this display, echoing life’s ups, downs, and enduring beauty.
After, our hearts felt full. It wasn’t just a walk; it was a bonding with nature and each other. The Westport waves were unforgettable.
2024: The Wave of Wonder – In Westport, WA, discover where the ocean speaks to the soul. Explore the marina, lighthouse, museum, and the stunning wave platform, a masterpiece framing the sea’s ballet.
2023: Your colors fading – A reflective post about dealing with exhaustion and reminiscing to the song “Run Away To Mars” during a challenging period.
2017: The Color of Cold – An introspective journey into the colors of winter, with a thoughtful examination of how cold affects our perception of color and environment.
2012: OSCR 50K: 4th Try Tomorrow – The 4th attempt at the OSCR 50K, marking the event’s 30th anniversary. A look at the race’s evolution and its challenging course across Seeley Creek Trails and Rice Ridge.
2012: Winter takes a break – An unexpected break from winter’s grip, offering a chance for some of the best road riding experiences in Montana, despite the anticipation of snow.
2011: The good idea – A night adventure on a snowy trail, following faint tracks in the dark and pondering the silent, elusive beauty of the winter night.
2006: My Epic Best Buy Laptop Repair Saga – A frustrating tale of a laptop purchased from Best Buy, detailing the saga of malfunctions and repair challenges, encapsulating the woes of consumer electronics.
Enjoy this trip down memory lane with these captivating stories!
Waikiki Beach in Washington is a unique spot where you feel the ocean’s whispers, not its surfing waves. It’s quiet, unlike the city bustle. In the mornings, a mist covers the sea, and the waves gently break on the shore, each with its own tale. I found a calm spot among driftwood and smooth pebbles, a world away from city noise, with just seagull cries and soft waves. I pulled out my camera.
Each wave was different – some quick and lively, others slow, adding to the beach’s charm. It’s a simple, peaceful place where you can think, or not think at all, perfect for family picnics, romantic walks, or solo peace-seeking. At sunset, the beach glowed, and I felt thankful for this quiet moment. I left under the stars, but the waves’ whispers stayed with me, a reminder of nature’s quieter beauty.
This video is a collection of the heartwarming, silly, and unforgettable moments shared with Snuggles, aka Mo. From cozy cuddles to playful adventures, these clips capture the essence of life with a furry companion who’s always there to make the simple moments extraordinary. Sit back, smile, and enjoy the joy and love Mo brings to every day.
There’s something magical about revisiting a place that’s layered with history, especially one tied so closely to someone you love. Walking through those woods with Mo and her father, it felt like we were slipping into the pages of an old family story. You could sense that the trees, the rocks, even the leaves underfoot, had witnessed more than a few tales of adventure, laughter, and who knows, maybe a few childhood memories of spills by the waterfall.
The waterfall itself was worth every step. It wasn’t the towering kind you find in guidebooks; instead, it was hidden, quiet, pouring down a rocky staircase that looked like it had been designed just for it. Framed by towering trees and flashes of autumn, it felt like this spot was the best-kept secret in the Pennsylvania woods.
Standing there, I felt like I’d been given a small piece of their family’s story. It wasn’t just a place to visit but a bridge to the past, where nature and nostalgia wrapped around us, reminding us that these quiet places, full of memory and history, are sometimes the most precious of all.
Late October in Montana often whispers of the coming winter, but this year, it roared. The snow arrived not with a gentle introduction, but as a sudden, unyielding force, plunging us into the depths of winter. The landscape, once a canvas of autumnal hues, is now a blanket of white, transforming our world overnight.
There’s a somber beauty in this abrupt change. The snow-covered mountains stand silent and majestic, holding secrets of the winter to come. The trails, our companions through many adventures, now lay hidden, their stories paused by the snow’s embrace.
This early winter is a reminder of nature’s unpredictability. We find ourselves adjusting, not just our wardrobes and daily routines, but also our mindset. The bikes that once carried us over dirt and rocks are now tucked away, waiting for the snow to melt and the trails to reemerge.
In the quiet of the snowfall, there’s a time for reflection. We think of the rides we’ve had, the trails we’ve conquered, and the adventures that await when the snow retreats. For now, we bow our heads to winter, respecting its power and finding solace in the stillness it brings.
Hey there, fellow riders!Just wanted to share a snippet from my spring escape to Hell’s Gate State Park back in April. The trails were alive with the promise of warmer days, and it’s got me reminiscing as I wake up to the first snow shoveling of the season.
There’s something about the thrill of biking amidst the blossoming summer that makes me miss it already. Here’s to hoping for more adventures and the return of those sunny trails! Some day 😦
Boneshakerbike 