Backcountry Blunders: Don’t Botch Your Trip in The Bob

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, a bastion of the untamed and home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Montana, beckons the bold and the adventurous. But before you lace up your boots and set out to conquer its vast expanses, let’s talk about how NOT to do The Bob. Here’s a Dropstone guide to avoiding the common faux pas we see each and every summer that could turn your wilderness odyssey into a series of unfortunate events and cringy memories.

The Siren Call of Brand-New Boots

Mistake: Succumbing to the allure of shiny new hiking boots right before your trip, because nothing says “adventure-ready” like stiff, untested footwear, right? Cue the blisters and the suanter of suffering. There is a reason we listed this one first. Please take our advice.
Avoidance Tactic: Break in those boots! Start wearing your new kicks weeks before your trip, gradually increasing wear time and mileage. Your feet will thank you for not turning them into a blister battleground. Remember, in the backcountry, comfort is greater than style. And, no, you cannot ride a mule out.

Underestimating Mother Nature’s Mood Swings

Mistake: Dressing like you’re off to a summer picnic and being not prepared for the weather turning on you a flapjack flipping on a hot griddle. Check out our GEAR LIST for help figuring out what to pack in your daypack.
Avoidance Tactic: Layers, my friend, layers. The weather in The Bob can go from sunny to stormy quicker than you can say “Where’s my rain jacket?” Pack for all conditions, and remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad dressers.

Playing Fast and Loose with Food Storage

Mistake: Treating bear-proof food storage guidelines as mere suggestions because surely, bears can’t smell your trail mix if it’s in your pocket, in your hiking pants, in your sleeping bag, in your tent, right?
Avoidance Tactic: Respect the locals (bears included). Please don’t store bear attractants or enjoy a midnight snack in your tent. Correctly stow away these items and correctly hang your food and “smellies” away from camp. This is for your safety and that of the group.

Water, Water Everywhere, But Not a Drop to Drink

Mistake: Assuming every stream and lake is your personal, pristine water fountain. Giardia and friends are not the souvenirs you want to bring home.
Avoidance Tactic: Only drink treated water. It’s never annoying to ask us for the water filter and we’ll happily share with you! Or don’t. Meh. We won’t be hanging out with you when Giardia takes control of your GI tract 10 days after our trip is over. Go ahead, roll the dice if you’re feeling lucky.

The Lone Wolf Syndrome

Mistake: Venturing into The Bob with a group and wandering off without informing said group.
Avoidance Tactic: We encourage a little sole time on our hikes or around camp, but please let someone know if you peel off from the group and when we can expect to see your precious face again. The wilderness is no place for secrets, especially if those secrets involve you getting lost or injured.

Packing as Though You’re Moving In

Mistake: Loading your pack like you’re trying to smuggle a small kitchen sink into the wilderness. Yes, we see that third spare flashlight and the extensive collection of “just in case” items. Check out our suggested PACKING LIST.
Avoidance Tactic: Embrace minimalism. Pack smart and light—think multipurpose items and essentials only. Your back (and the pack animals) will thank you.

Ignoring the LNT (Leave No Trace) Principles

Mistake: Treating the backcountry like it’s the county fair where nobody will notice if you leave a little trash behind.
Avoidance Tactic: Pack out what you pack in, avoid creating new wear and tear, skip the flower crown for dinner each night and leave ‘em in the ground, use biodegradable soap sparingly and away from water sources. You know these things. If you’re not sure – just ask. Remember, we’re all just visitors in nature’s home.Thanks for treading lightly so others can enjoy this special place too.

Ignoring Your Guide’s Advice

Mistake: Treating your guide’s insights and instructions like background noise or, worse, optional recommendations. Remember, they’re not just there to lead the way; they’re your wilderness encyclopedia and safety officer rolled into one.
Avoidance Tactic: Listen up and lean in. Your guide knows The Bob like the back of their hand—weather patterns, terrain challenges, and wildlife behavior. They’re not just sharing fun facts; they’re giving you the tools to navigate the wilderness more safely and enjoyably. Plus, their stories are usually gold.

Underestimating the Group Dynamic

Mistake: Embarking on a group trip as a solitary ranger type, convinced you’ll set the pace and agenda and tell everyone how much you know. Spoiler: it’s a group effort, and collaboration is the name of the game.
Avoidance Tactic: Embrace the pack. Hiking in a group means pacing, breaks, and decisions are made collectively. Be open to new friendships, offer a hand when needed, and remember, the shared experiences and camaraderies are often the most unforgettable parts of the Dropstone experience. Plus, you’re gonna need someone to take your photo at those breathtaking vistas!

By sidestepping these backcountry blunders, you’re not just ensuring a safer, more enjoyable adventure in The Bob, you’re also respecting this magnificent wilderness for future generations of intrepid explorers. Now, with your newfound wisdom, go forth and break those boots in!