Hi. There’s been a lot of bear content in the news lately, especially in the Northern Rockies. A bear attack (sadly), and video of curious bears “following” people. I’ve noticed that it’s occurring more frequently this year. And that’s because a lot of people are moving to the Northern Rockies…people who think their new backyard is just like their backyard in Texas.

It’s not.

Unlike Texas, which has almost no public land or wilderness (and which most people sadly confuse as a wild place), the Northern Rockies are still very wild, with incredibly vibrant ecosystems and a full array of native fauna.

I’ve been filming grizzly and black bears in Montana and NW Wyoming since 2004.

How many times have I followed a bear into the woods? Zero.

How many times have I gone for a jog or bike in grizzly habitat? Zero.

How many times have I not paid attention to the woods in grizzly habitat? Zero.

More and more, I’m seeing people that think the Northern Rockies are some kind of paradise playground, a tame personal backyard.

They are not.

The moment you step into that national forest, you better give those woods 100% of your attention…not your music app on your phone as you jog or bike. Or that random text.

The national forests and parks of the Northern Rockies are the real deal. They are the home of the wildest and rarest animals in the world.

And for those continuing to consider a move there, here’s the reality. Check out the frost-free days of these Montana towns:

97 frost-free days in Bozeman
102 in Whitefish
110 in Missoula.

Can you handle 250+ days of cold? Think about it. For real.

The truth is, Montana is a place best visited. It’s home to a unique brand of hearty people who’ve developed a tolerance to the harsh winters and abundant wildlife.

Growing up, I used to want a cabin on a lake. Then I realized that’s how you ruin the place you love. I saw it happen to the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Soon, trees were cut down for a “better view”. Pine needle and sandy forest floors were replaced with chem-lawns that depleted oxygen levels in the lakes.

And if enough people keep building homes next to places like Glacier, they’ll deplete grizzly bear habitat like the oxygen in the Northwoods lakes.

To capture the essence of Glacier, tent for a few days in a campground. Or take a boat tour, or hike, or just drive. You won’t capture the essence by building a home there . You’ll only ruin it.

The Northern Rockies are more than your outdoor clothing catalogue dreams. More than your desire to “invest in a vacation home”. They are more than your personal goals. They go beyond you…beyond me.

They are the last of the best.
-Michael