Missouri Breaks, Aug. 20-25, 2008
posted April 28, 2008 by George Granlund
The 149-mile Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River flows through the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. The land and the rugged, surrounding Montana uplands (commonly called the Missouri Breaks) are defined in part by their history. The entire region was the homeland and lifeblood of American Indians. The river served as the pathway for Lewis and Clark, then the waterway for steamboats and a drawing card for fur trappers and traders. Later, the river and the Missouri Breaks were sanctuaries for desperados trying to stay a step ahead of the law.
I'm planning to depart Michigan on August 17. My wife will be going with me and we will use our canoe for the trip. I only have a small pickup so can't take anyone else, but I'm happy to caravan out there if anyone wishes to. I'm praying that gas doesn't reach $4.00/gallon. I don't think that I can drive around the clock anymore so we'll likely stop in Minnesota or North Dakota for the night. The last time I drove it, it took 2 1/2 days to get to Fort Benton. Plans are to be on the river on the 20th through about the 25rd or 26th (winds are really the only factor in slowing us down, and we'll want to explore).
Give me some ideas about car shuttles. It is a 300 mile round trip to shuttle the cars from Fort Benton. One idea was to get to Fort Benton and stay in town. The Pioneer Lodge in fort Benton www.pioneerlodgemt.com looks to be a nice place and it is right on the river, so I thought people could relax there while we shuttle cars to the other end. I don't know yet how many people (or who) will be going so, if you are definitely going, let me know. Barb said she was and, I believe Brenda too. Another alternative is to hire someone to bring our vehicles down to the end when we expect to finish (5-7 days). This is the most convenient way but also will cost us. There are quite a few shuttle outfitters and I will check prices.
Check out websites on the Upper Missouri Wild and Scenic River to get more info. Also Bureau of Land Management has a good description of the trip with contacts for more info.
My wife and I are planning to drive to Glacier Park after the paddle and others are welcome to explore with us. We'll be camping and cooking.
I'm excited to get back out there and I promise you won't be disappointed in the scenery and the river. Let me know if you've any questions or if anyone else might want to go.
If you have questions email George at ggranlund622@yahoo.com
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