Stargazing and Solar Power: A Senior's Solo Camping Adventure at Fish Creek, Glacier National Park

Retirement. It's a word that conjures up different images for everyone. For me, Javier, a recently retired high school science teacher in his late 60s, it meant hitting the road on a solo cross-country camping trip. My destination: the majestic Glacier National Park in Montana. My home for a few days: Fish Creek Campground, campsite #A28. And let me tell you, it was an experience filled with breathtaking beauty, a few technological hiccups, and a profound connection to the universe.

Arrival and First Impressions

As I pulled into Fish Creek Campground in my trusty Subaru Forester, the air was thick with the scent of pine. The sound of rushing water, presumably from the nearby creek, filled the air, a soothing melody after a long day of driving. Late afternoon sunlight streamed through the towering trees, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. It was exactly the kind of serene environment I had been dreaming of. This campsite, I thought, would be perfect.

Solar Power Woes (and Wins!)

One of my goals for this trip was to be as self-sufficient as possible. That meant relying on solar power to keep my electronics charged. I had invested in a Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro power station and two Renogy 100-watt solar panels. Setting it up, however, proved to be a bit more challenging than I anticipated.

After what seemed like an eternity untangling wires and deciphering instructions, I thought I had everything connected correctly. But when I plugged the panels into the Jackery, nothing happened. After some frantic troubleshooting, I realized with a jolt that I had accidentally reversed the polarity of the solar panels! A momentary scare, a quick correction, and finally, success! The system was up and running, harnessing the power of the sun to keep my batteries charged. A crucial lesson learned for this senior camper: double-check those connections! Best portable solar power for senior camping is a must.

Bear Safety: A Top Priority

Glacier National Park is bear country, and bear safety is paramount. Upon arrival, I was reminded of the park's strict regulations: bear spray is mandatory for all hikers, and proper food storage is essential. Bear canisters are available for rent, but I opted for an electric fence system to protect my food and cooking supplies. This involved setting up a small perimeter around my picnic table, a bit of a hassle, but well worth the peace of mind. Always remember, respecting wildlife and following regulations ensures the safety of both humans and animals. Bear safety tips for senior campers Glacier are essential.

Amenities: Keeping it Clean

Fish Creek Campground offers vault toilets, which are basic but generally well-maintained. While not the most luxurious option, they served their purpose. To freshen up after a day of hiking, I relied on my Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower and biodegradable soap. A quick, refreshing shower under the trees was surprisingly invigorating, washing away the sweat and dust of the trail. Accessible bathroom camping Glacier National Park are a must!

Astrophotography Under the Montana Sky

One of the biggest draws of Glacier National Park for me was the opportunity to indulge in some astrophotography. As a science teacher, I've always been fascinated by the cosmos, and the dark skies of Montana offered the perfect canvas for capturing the beauty of the night sky. However, finding a truly dark spot away from the campground lights proved to be a challenge.

After scouting around, I found a small clearing near the lake. Setting up my Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro mount, Sony Alpha 7III camera (ISO 3200, aperture f/2.8, shutter speed 20 seconds), and Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens, I pointed my camera towards the heavens.

And then, I saw it. The Milky Way, a river of stars stretching across the sky, more vibrant and awe-inspiring than I had ever imagined. It was the first time I had truly seen the Milky Way with my own eyes. A wave of emotion washed over me – a profound sense of awe and wonder at the vastness of the universe and our place within it. It was a moment I will never forget. Glacier National Park astrophotography camping is a must.

Hiking Among Giants: Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake

No trip to Glacier National Park is complete without hitting the trails. I chose the Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake Trail for my hike, a relatively easy trek that promised stunning scenery. The trail wound through a grove of ancient Western Red Cedars and Hemlock trees, their massive trunks towering overhead. It was like stepping into a cathedral of nature.

Along the way, I caught a fleeting glimpse of a pika darting among the rocks, a small, furry creature that added to the magic of the experience.

Avalanche Lake itself was breathtaking. Surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, it felt like a hidden paradise. I learned about the geological features of the hanging valley surrounding it. Using my Bushnell Legend L Series 10x42 binoculars, I spotted a grizzly bear grazing on a distant hillside. Keeping a safe and respectful distance, I observed the magnificent animal for a few minutes before continuing my hike. Glacier National Park wildlife viewing tips are essential.

Camp Cuisine: Simple and Satisfying

After a day of hiking and exploring, I was always ready for a good meal. My portable propane grill (Coleman RoadTrip 225) was a lifesaver. I kept things simple, grilling vegetables and sausages for a quick and easy dinner. Enjoying a hot meal at my campsite, surrounded by the sounds of nature, was the perfect way to end the day. Easy camping meals for seniors Glacier are a must.

Campground Camaraderie

While I mostly enjoyed the solitude of solo camping, I did have a brief but pleasant conversation with a family from Chicago at the adjacent campsite, #A27. They were camping with young children and had opted for a larger RV. They shared their experiences of camping with kids, the challenges and the joys, and their reasons for choosing an RV over tent camping. It was interesting to hear their perspective and to see how different families experience the same place in different ways.

Campsite Selection: Location, Location, Location

Choosing campsite #A28 was a deliberate process. I considered several factors, including morning sunlight exposure for my solar panels, proximity to the bathrooms (a consideration for a senior traveler!), and the overall layout of the campground. Navigating the somewhat crowded campground roads in my Subaru Forester, especially when backing into the campsite, proved to be a bit tricky at times. But ultimately, I was happy with my choice.

Final Verdict: A Stellar Experience with Room for Improvement

Overall, my experience at Fish Creek Campground was overwhelmingly positive. The breathtaking beauty of Glacier National Park, the incredible astrophotography opportunities, and the chance to reconnect with nature made it a truly memorable trip. However, the crowded conditions and the lack of hookups at many campsites were drawbacks.

Therefore, I give Fish Creek Campground an 8/10 rating. I highly recommend it, especially for those seeking natural beauty and incredible night skies, but be prepared for crowds and limited amenities. If you’re a senior looking for retirement travel Glacier National Park, this may be the place for you. I hope you come prepared with your solar panels!