This was where I had lunch sitting on this log. I've already finished and have packed up my bag. I think that was a good lesson (to keep the bag mostly packed even while eating) since about 5 minutes after I took this shot, I was sitting on the log and heard a grunt over my left shoulder. Not 20 feed away was a bear standing at the edge of the trees watching me. I started singing softly out loud as everyone says talking (and hopefully singing) can keep the bears away. I chose singing since I won't seem quite so insane as talking to myself and it's a good opportunity to practice the songs I've been learning on guitar. Anyway, I leaned over, pulled out the bear spray and zipped the pack. In one move I slowly got up with the pack on one shoulder, the bear spray in the right hand and the waterbottle in the left and started walking off camera to the right. After about 5 steps I looked over my shoulder and the bear was already at my spot sniffing around. About 15 steps he was still there again. I never looked back again. It took me about 1/4 of a mile before I had the nerve to stop, put the water bottle away and close up the almond bag I had been eating from. They didn't even spill, not that I really cared.

About 1/2 of a mile out I passed two ladies headed for the lake. I told them about the bear and they were not concerned (even without bear spray!). Oh well, some people like to learn the hard way.

I had been contemplating camping in Canada all week since I was less that 40 miles from the border and Waterton National Park (Canada). After the hike I drove to Belly River and setup camp. I had this campground to myself and probably could have gotten away without paying, but paid the honor system anyway. Got 40 questions on the border, but basically didn't have any problems.

Oh yeah, this had to be the lumpiest camp site I have ever camped at. The ground felt like cattle had been stomping around here only hours before I setup my tent.