Scenic Point and Upper Medicine Lake Hikes

Scenic Point
6.2 miles - 2350 ft elevation gain

This was a steady uphill hike on the way out.  It went by a small waterfall and wound through the trees for a short time.  However, most of the hike was exposed and I hoped I would see bears, goats or sheep on the hillside.  Unfortunately I did not but it was a beautiful hike with incredible views of Lower Medicine Lake.  As I neared the top the wind increased and it was "blowing a gale".  I was nearly knocked over in certain spots along the ridge.  I had to walk over an area of snow that dropped steeply off to the left.  I hugged the rock wall and hoped for the best.  Scenic Point itself had views to the east and the plains.  The wind was so strong that I couldn't quite make it up to the ridge facing west.

Photos here or slide show below.

Upper Medicine Lake

11.5 miles -- 400 ft elevation gain

I set out to walk around the lake and meet the ranger led walk on the other side.  I figure that walking with a group is safer in terms of the bears.  I beat them to the boat landing and enjoyed listening to the ranger speak about her experiences as a bear control ranger.  However, there were around 20 people in the group and I soon broke off and walked on my own.  I saw a huge bear print (shown below) and walked very carefully calling out often.

From Upper Medicine Lake

The views from the lake were impressive and the wildflowers along the way were incredible.  I also visited the Twin Falls which were quite nice little waterfalls.  On the way back I lost my bear bell as I climbed over an avalanche that covered a section of trail.

Full size photos here or slide show below.