In line with each other, the horses climb up the mountains, over steep sandy trails. The group moves forward at a steady pace. It is a wild trail, with patches of snow on the way, and the chainsaw is needed at times to cut trees out of the trail. Higher up, through the trees, we glance at the landscape around us. There is nothing but infinite mountains ranges, with snowy summits and green pines on the side slopes and in the valley. Before our eyes lays the wide Carpenter Lake, turquoise and tranquil.
As we are climbing up the trail, we actually have the chance to see a bear. Safe on our horses, we are lucky enough to get a glimpse of a young brown bear, near the trail, about thirty meters before us. As we approach, the bear runs away, its fur shining in the sun. We stand there, watching it go, anticipating what would come next; the grizzly den.
The way to the den is a mystery; the leader keeps the suspense until the end. The group goes what seems to be off trail, in the middle of the bush. It is a hard den to find, but very rewarding and unique experience. After a last portion on foot, we finally reach our goal: we have found the grizzly den! The den has been inactive for a few years, there is no risk to meet with a bear at the entrance. The grizzly outgrew the entrance to the den as the trees roots got larger the hole between them got smaller.The latter looks like a black hole. It is about thirty centimetres wide, which first seems small to us. However, everyone is able to crawl in and imagine a cosy nap inside of the den. It is big enough to fit two people at once. The interior looks like a prehistoric cave. But, as we crawl out and raise our heads, we realise that the den is situated under a tree, as if it was carved in wood! The tree is absolutely immense; the width is about one and a half meters, with a height of approximately fifty meters. Around us is only trees and quietness. This den would be a fantastic option for lovers of wild camping and bush craft! But watch out for bears around…