Mini Gash Point BC Ski, Bitterroots

Date: February 16, 2019

Trip Leader: Susanna Girolamo and Paul Jensen

Participants: Joshua Phillips, Adam D, Malcolm L, Richard S, Minot M, Fintan M, Camie R, Thomas T.

Mini Gash Point (as a few of us call it) is the first high point on the ridge leading up from the Bear Creek Overlook.  It’s a classic backcountry tour in the Bitterroots, especially for those that prefer shorter outings. 

Nine of us met in Missoula and carpooled in two rigs. We picked up Malcolm on our way through Victor. Since we had a high demand for this trip, Joshua and I decided to welcome everyone and split the group in two.

Our tour started just below the Bear Creek Overlook Trailhead. Because of the great amount of snow on the road, we left our vehicles down at the junction of Gash Creek Rd and Bear Creek Overlook Trailhead Rd. With the amount of snow up there finding a parking spot was challenging. But after talking to one of the residence, he agreed to plow and open the junction by making it possible for us to park on the side without disrupting other traffic. Thank you, Doug!

Some of us preferred going faster and were able to put a few laps in. Despite the stormy forecast, we got sunshine and blue skies with spectacular views. The snow up higher was fantastic with almost a foot of fresh powder. Skiing down felt as though you were flying just above the ground on a blanket of silky light snow. Thanks to everyone who came out on this great day.  We enjoyed a beer at Wildwood Brewery on our way back to Missoula.