[PDF] Winter: Notes From Montana Rick Bass

In their quest for a winter haven in the Western wilderness, Bass and his companion Elizabeth stumbled upon the Yaak valley nestled in northwest Montana. This secluded sanctuary, devoid of modern amenities like electricity and phone service, boasted only sporadic radio signals and could be accessed via a rugged gravel-and-dirt road requiring a four-wheel drive. With just one saloon, a general store, and a handful of steadfast residents, the Yaak offered a retreat far removed from the bustle of civilization, with the nearest town, Libby, a distant 40 miles away. Taking on the role of caretakers for a disused hunting lodge, the couple embraced their winter refuge with gusto. Bass vividly recounts their experiences in the wilderness: from battling blizzards and chopping wood to encounters with wildlife and occasional social gatherings at the quaint Dirty Shame Saloon. He captures the essence of valley life, extolling its untamed spirit and the leisurely pace it affords, while also delving into the challenges, both physical and psychological, of living amidst nature’s rugged embrace. This delightful narrative offers readers a glimpse into the joys and hardships of winter in the wilderness, inviting them to see the season with renewed appreciation.