Almost A Dog Mountain

“Imazí-imita,” a renowned warrior of the Blackfoot tribe, bore the name that translated to “Almost A Dog” in his native language. In his youth, he emerged as one of the scarce survivors of the devastating 1870 Marias Massacre, a grim episode etched in history. This heart-wrenching tragedy claimed the lives of his entire family in an utterly unnecessary assault. Despite being left physically impaired, he defied the odds and endured the aftermath of this unfathomable event. Thirteen years later, Imazí-imita once again confronted unimaginable hardship, braving the brutal ordeal known as the Starvation Winter of 1883-84. Against all odds, he persevered through this harrowing chapter, marked by scarcity and suffering. It is fitting that a rugged and austere mountain bears his name, paying homage to a Blackfoot warrior who endured such an arduous and unforgiving existence.

In the captivating scene depicted above, the formidable presence of Mount Logan dominates the immediate foreground, casting its austere shadow over the surrounding landscape. This image, captured during the waning days of autumn, offers a glimpse before the arrival of winter’s ethereal snowfall. As glaciers embrace two sides of this majestic peak, namely Pumpelly Glacier and Logan Glacier on its right flank, Mount Logan proudly boasts the ownership of two among the mere 25 glaciers that endure within Glacier National Park.

Regrettably, the park’s glacial count has dwindled significantly over time. In 1850, a staggering estimate of 150 glaciers graced this cherished wilderness. Alas, the passage of years and the relentless forces of climate change have taken their toll. Glaciologists, experts in the study of glaciers, somberly predict that by the year 2030, all of the park’s remaining glaciers may vanish into the annals of history, leaving behind a landscape forever altered.

As one’s gaze delves into the intricacies of this image, a discerning eye will discern a picturesque valley nestled gracefully on the right side. Known as Red Eagle Creek, it unveils its allure in the heart of the image, captivating viewers with its serene presence. Within this valley, two resplendent waterfalls gracefully cascade, their mesmerizing beauty harmoniously contributing to the flow of snowmelt and rainwater, ultimately nourishing the depths of Red Eagle Lake below.

Directing our attention upward, the vista unveils a visual tapestry that unfolds with enchanting peaks. Along the middle edge of the image, a pyramid-shaped pinnacle commands attention—none other than the renowned Split Mountain, adorned with an air of mystique. Peering beyond this majestic formation, the gaze beholds the awe-inspiring Medicine Owl Peak, awash in vibrant hues of purple, as if painted by nature’s masterful brushstrokes. Standing in harmonious company, the brightly colored White Calf Mountain graces the left, radiating its own captivating brilliance, completing this breathtaking panorama.

If you follow the ridgeline to the immediate upper left of Mount Logan you come to Almost-A-Dog Mountain. Continuing along the ridgeline to the left is Dusty Star Mountain and on the other side of the ridge slightly to the right is Little Chief Mountain. On the other side of the mountains, you can see a body of water in the distance, this is St. Mary Lake. The small strip of land separating the lake is where the tiny community of St. Mary is located. This is the eastern entrance to Glacier National Park up through Going-To-The-Sun-Mountain road.

In the captivating image below, the enigmatic figure of Almost A Dog gracefully reveals itself, peering from behind the ridge that adorns the side of Little Chief Mountain. With a sense of intrigue, this elusive presence captures the imagination, inviting contemplation of its untold stories. The frozen glacial lake adjacent to the ridge adds a touch of ethereal beauty to the scene, its serene surface reflecting the grandeur of the surrounding landscape. Gently embracing the bottom right foreground, Red Eagle Mountain emerges as a majestic sentinel, standing tall and proud. Its formidable stature commands reverence, casting a majestic shadow over the land below. Nestled beneath its watchful gaze, Red Eagle Lake serenely rests, a shimmering oasis amidst the untamed wilderness. Together, these elements paint a vivid tableau, evoking a sense of wonder and a longing for exploration in the depths of the observer’s soul.

In this image, Citadel Mountain basks in the light of evening sunset, casting it looming shadow over Almost A Dog Mountain on the right and Little Chief Mountain on the left along with Mahtotopa Mountain and Red Eagle Mountain, the purple tip of the mountain chain. These mountains overlook Saint Mary Lake, on the left side of this image.