THERE'S GOLD IN THEM THAR HILLS

Sat, 6/26/10. Take winding dirt road around perimeter of Henry's Lake for one last look at a place with great adventures. As we head towards Ennis, a road off the beaten path looks interesting ...there may be an RV site up ahead!











The site is rural, but not exactly what we had in mind. Discover it's the Ruby Habitat Foundation dedicated to preserving space and protecting wildlife. Hmmm? The wildlife is a little skittish!






In 1863, gold was discovered in Alder Gulch. This brought on the "rush." Two months later, William Ennis homesteaded the site along the Madison River which later became the town of Ennis. Ennis Cafe looks quaint--built in early 1900's and known for it's world famous strawberry pie, cinnamon rolls, homestyle cooking and Montana hospitality. The burgers with crispy french fries were quite good and so was the service.

Pass by Virginia City and Nevada City, charming areas that look like a step back in time. The sides of the road are covered with slag heaps which is rock leftover from mining operations. Register at Alder KOA Campground and talk about how much FUN it would be to learn how to pan for gold and minerals.
Sunday, 6/27/10. Love Virginia City and Nevada City!...the museums, the shops, and our ride on the Alder Gulch Shortline Railroad. After panning instructions, we equip ourselves for our own prospecting.

















































Back to Alder KOA for another night. Grilled chicken, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Laundry to do. Trade travel stories with other RV people.

Monday, 6/28/10. Goodbye Brian and Toni--you were very personable KOA hosts and we enjoyed your campground!








Gold rush fever takes us into the Montana wilderness, through Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Miles and miles and miles (33.5 to be exact) of dirt road with fields of deer, buffalo and secluded ranches.





























At Cottonwood Creek, we settle into a camping area. Lone campers, that is, by the Ruby River. Panning, fishing, napping !



































Turkey burgers, hash browns and beets. Zack enjoys his peanut butter frozen treat. A campfire, roasted marshmellows and stars. It's quiet, except for the sounds of the wild.