Jennifer Idol, Ocean Artists Society member
Using ocean art to inspire people around the world to a greater awareness of our need to preserve our natural world.
The start of a grand day
I never know what the waters will hold for me on each dive. This day, I was thrilled upon my first descent. The water seemed quite clear, though the locals thought it was at its poorest visibility. I found the teal color of the water inspiring and will definitely return.
Lake McDonald history
These tools are fabled to be remnants from the construction of the Going to the Sun road 100 years ago.
A declaration of historical proof
As if claiming the land, this shovel marks a time in history when work was done by hand, clothes were washed in bins, and axes were ground for use.
Pitcher in Lake McDonald
Awaiting its owner to return and put this pitcher to use, these historical artifacts remain from early construction in Glacier National Park.
The last stand
The last remaining group of tools in Lake McDonald, visitors have mysteriously taken artifacts from the lake. I felt lucky to see this last group of tools and hope that all new visitors leave what remains for all to enjoy.
And it all came to a halt
One day, the ice may have broken through and all these materials came to their resting place. Strewn about as if they fell yesterday, this is a captivating glimpse into the past.
Passing by
Just passing through, we observe wash bins from a day and age when they were necessary.
Submerged cedar forest
A mudslide caused a number of trees to slide into the lake, upright. Preserved still, they tower up from the sand.
Into the depths
Looking directly atop one of the split tree ends, I am struck by how this cedar appears as if it is floating.
Uprooted
Still standing where the earth once held this great tree upright, the roots are evidence of a day when part of the land slid into Lake McDonald.
Goats!
Finally, I was able to see mountain goats, and kids. I love seeing wildlife, especially acting naturally and out in the wilderness. It feels like a privilege every time I encounter new animals.
Going to the Sun
Headed up the valley, I wondered why the Going to the Sun Road is so named. Then, the road suddenly came to a turn and I quickly drove upwards toward the peak. Then, I had the opportunity to hike, straight up to the sun.
Tagged
This mountain goat followed me back down from the peak of the mountain. Nearing the end of day, the goats head downward to stay warm during the night. This particular goat was also marked by a large tracking collar.
White reflections
During the summer Glacier National Park is largely green and warm, but patches of snow are still remarkable. I hiked across three sections of snow to get to the overlook at Logan Pass and across one very cold stream of melted snow.
Goodbye Glacier
Sadly, I often can only stay a very short while in all the places I visit. I had a hard time parting Glacier National Park, especially since the setting sun started to really change the landscape. My favorite time to take photos is at sunset.
