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I left on this trip with no clear itinerary. I had identified more things to do and see than I had time for. I would watch the weather and make decisions as I went. My only rule was that I would stay south of I-90. That rule would keep me somewhat focused and stop me from chasing shiny objects when the world’s wonders were close; they just might take a bit of effort to uncover. I left Georgetown Lake and moseyed on to the Maiden Rock (west side) fishing access spot and set up camp.

Leaving whimsy at Georgetown Lake
To get there I drove Hwy 274 and thoroughly enjoyed it. A peaceful scenic route with little traffic and as an extra bonus it includes a stop to look at what was once the mining mule retirement center.

Butte mule retirement center
For the next four days I ventured from my campsite exploring the area. Butte, charcoal kilns, Vipond Park, and Quartz Hill. Read the following blog post for those storied.
My camp site was simple and peaceful. I was the only one camping there for four nights. Camping on the Big Hole River.

My camp site
On the path to the Big Hole River I found this object hanging.

Perhaps a fisherman’s charm
Note:
- $18/night.
- No ATT cell service.
- Although the site is only 6-7 miles from Melrose, it is a slow go. Plan on twenty minutes or so to get there.