October 17, 2004 in Outdoors

A wild rush Glacier National Park, Montana

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In our youth decisions are often impulsive, like the time I bushwhacked up Chapman Peak, one of the many trail-less mountains in Glacier National Park.

It simply had to be climbed that crisp morning in tribute to my sister whose last name was Chapman.

At first it seemed like good fortune that there were only scrub pines to work around, although as events unfolded the lack of large trees would take a different meaning. I scrambled up the open slope and around large rocks. The walking was easier in a saddle or two near the top, but the relief was short-lived.

Looking ahead toward the day’s destination, I spotted a young grizzly bear about 80 yards away on all fours digging at roots. The posters and pamphlets about how to handle such an encounter flashed through my mind.

Plan 1: Climb a tall tree. I looked at the puny scrub pines and realized I needed a Plan 2.

By that time, the young griz had become curious. Unfortunately, he appeared to be curious about me.

With a playful jaunt he approached. Hold your ground, I thought. Hold your ground.

Oh my, hold your ground.

The young bear stopped short of me by 10 yards, stood on his hind legs, and sniffed the air. Not feeling threatened, he dropped onto all fours and headed back to his favorite root-digging spot.

I abandoned my quest and took the most direct route down Chapman Peak with my heart pounding as I clung to shrubs and scurried around rocks.

I felt more alive than at any moment in my life.

Impulsive decisions can bring that feeling your way. Spontaneous adventures have a way of becoming lasting memories and stories to be told for generations to come.

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