TRACY SEES STUFF 👀

Category: Blog

  • Bigfork and Flathead Lake, Montana

    Bigfork and Flathead Lake, Montana

    Bigfork and the Flathead Lake Area

    Are you planning a trip to Glacier National Park? Then, Bigfork and the Flathead Lake area in Montana is a must-add to your itinerary. Take a beautiful 45-minute drive from Glacier National Park and hang out in the eclectic small town of Bigfork. As Flathead Lake appears when driving into town, it will take your breath away. Not to mention, the area is filled with excellent restaurants, breweries, fun shops, local music events, parks, and genuine people.

    Flathead Lake State Parks

    Sculpted by the Glaciers, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the United States. Six (yes, six!) state parks surround the lake, including Wild Horse Island State Park, which is only accessible by boat. The 2,160-acre island is home to a band of wild horses, bighorn sheep, bald eagles, and more. The other five state parks are as follows: Wayfarers State Park, Big Arm State Park, West Shore State Park, Finley Point State Park, and Yellow Bay State Park. The state parks offer camping, picnicking, hiking, and endless water recreation.

    dog looking out over flathead lake, montana

    Our first stop was Wayfarers State Park for a short hike on the rocky cliffs along the shoreline. Then, lunch to-go from Flathead Lake Brewery and a picnic at Everit L. Sliter Memorial park right next to the Swan River and historic bridge. This is a lovely dog-friendly park with picnic tables right next to the water.

    Bigfork Lodging

    We found the sweetest lodging at Mountain Lake Lodge. The rooms are very spacious with local art decor, spectacular views, and two on-site restaurants; Schafer’s Restaurant and Riley’s Pub. We loved the wood-fired pizza (gluten-free crust available) at Riley’s, along with their made in-house desserts and their dog-friendly patio. Additional amenities include an infinity pool overlooking Flathead Lake, a fire pit, lawn games, hot tubs, and putting green.

    On the second day, we drove to the quaint town of Lakeside, Montana, to check out Tamarack Brewing Co. and West Shore State Park. This was one of my favorite meals! You have to try the Huckleberry Salmon. Delicious! Also in Lakeside, is a really nice city park. The city park isn’t dog-friendly, but the state parks are, and Allen had a blast. He wanted to swim out and meet the kayakers.

    lakeside montana city park

    On the third day, we headed to Finley Point State Park to skip some rocks. This is one of the smaller state parks with a secluded campground. The drive from Mountain Lake Lodge offers gorgeous views of the lake and cherry orchards. I can’t wait to go back someday in early August to buy from the cherry stands around the lake.

    Then, in the evening, we went to Max’s Market to hear live music. This local organic market is AMAZING! The market offers organic groceries, wine, beer, kombucha, unique gifts, healthy lunch/dinner/snacks, and live music. Plus, they are dog-friendly! Including, their adorable dog named Charley, who lovingly greets all the guests.

    Last, our favorite restaurant in Bigfork is Echo Lake Cafe. This iconic family-owned restaurant has been serving homemade food since 1960. We ate there four times during our stay because the food is so good. 🙂 They have a wonderful patio and also offer gluten-free options. The gluten-free french toast, pictured below, was crazy yummy!

    Follow along on Instagram at @whatstirsyoursoul for more photos and videos.

    Read our Glacier National Park blog post here: https://tracyseesstuff.com/2021/06/27/glacier-national-park-and-west-glacier-koa/.

    Enjoy the road and keep searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Virginia City, Montana Ghost Town

    Virginia City, Montana Ghost Town

    If you’re into history and ghosts towns, add Virginia City to your bucket list when road tripping through Montana.

    Virginia City – Montana’s Living Ghost Town

    Virginia City, Montana, is a National Historic Landmark District and a living ghost town. A piece of the old west frozen in time. After gold was discovered in Alder Gulch in 1863, the stampede to this area was on. Many cities popped up during this time but Virginia City is the only sole surviver. As I stood on the wooden sidewalk and looked around, it’s amazing how well-preserved the town is and there is so much to take in. You can imagine, visualize, and feel the history.

    virginia city ghost town

    After reading and learning about Virginia City, we decided to add it to our route traveling from Butte to Ennis. We stopped for breakfast at the Virginia City Cafe and had the delicious Miner’s Breakfast. The food, atmosphere, and service was great. People also recommended a stop at Cousins Candy Shop. We stopped in for dessert and a haul for the road. It was fun watching them making the home-made treats and taffy in the front window.

    virginia city cafe signage

    The gentleman at the Indian Trading Post was so nice, patient, and helpful. A great story teller.

    indian trading post in virginia city

    We didn’t stay long due to time constraints but from what I hear, there is always something going on in town if you stick around.

    The oldest courthouse in the state built in 1863 and still used for its original purpose. Can you imagine the stories this building could tell?!

    Virginia City court house

    This was such a beautiful route, and don’t forget to stop in Whitehall and check out their murals on your way.

    montana landscape

    If you’re looking for lodging in the area, check out Sportsman’s Lodge in Ennis just 20 minutes away. Read more HERE.

    You can learn more and see events here – virginiacity.com.

    Enjoy the road and never stop searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Rustic Log Cabins – Montana

    Rustic Log Cabins – Montana

    Rustic Log Cabins in Ennis, Montana

    The historic Sportsman’s Lodge, built in 1945, is surrounded by 18 rustic log cabins and 11 mountain view rooms. This one-stop destination offers everything you need after a long day on the road or while exploring Yellowstone Country; not only the cozy rustic log cabins but also a family-friendly restaurant, sports bar, and a casino. The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, a place where everyone shares their fishing and adventure stories. The lodge is located 0.8 miles from Ennis State Park/Fishing Access Area, 1.5 miles from Madison Meadows Golf Course, 17 miles from Montana’s living ghost town, Virginia City, and 72 miles from Yellowstone National Park.

    cowboy on sportsman's lodge bar deck

    The history from Sportsman’s Lodge website:

    The town of Ennis is full of rich history, dating back to 1805, when Lewis and Clark entered the Madison Valley. The Madison County was later settled in 1863, following the discovery of gold in Alder Gulch. William Ennis , whom the town is named after, is credited with homesteading the area. Originally the town was a draw for its water access, farming potential, and wild game. As a result, the settlement continued to spread and provided a draw for ranching, which is still predominant in the area today. The town of Ennis today is just as majestic and beautiful as when it was discovered all those years ago. Visit www.sportsmanslodgemt.com to read more.

    Sportsman’s Lodge Cabins

    The charming cabins have western decor and are no-fuss, simple, and clean; perfect for a good night’s rest after a big day of fishing or exploring. Each cabin has a little deck area with seating to enjoy the fresh mountain air and big sky views.

    cabin at sportsman's lodge ennis montana

    In addition, not far (walking distance) from the Sportsman’s Lodge, they also offer more rooms at the Silvertip Lodge.

    The restaurant is open 6 days a week and sports bar is open 7 days a week. See hours here https://www.sportsmanslodgemt.com/.

    Everyone loves a to-go option while on the road!

    We traveled to Virginia City and Ennis after visiting Glacier National Park. Read more about Montana’s living ghost town, Virginia City – HERE.

    Read our lodging and entry tips to Glacier National Park post by clicking HERE.

    Enjoy the road and keep searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️

    ©Tracy Blowers


  • Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park Southern Utah

    Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park Southern Utah

    Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park in Southern Utah is a natural, 3,730 acre, beautiful “sandbox” that opened in 1963. The dunes were created by the erosion of the nearby Navajo sandstone cliffs. As a result, the sand is a unique bright orangish pink color that pops against the blue skies.

    Coral Pink Sand Dunes Views

    There is something fun to do for everyone at Coral Pink Sand Dunes, including dogs. We explore, hike, take pictures of the ever-changing landscapes, and love watching our footprints disappear in the wind moments after leaving them. The elevation is 6000 feet, and the sand is deep. As a result, we tire quicker than we expect, especially being flatlanders. 😉

    Things to do at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

    Rent a sand sled, ATV, or Dune Buggie for some adrenaline-pumping fun, or schedule a repelling tour in the park. Have a picnic, walk and read all the signage to learn more about the native plants and animals, or relax at the overlook, taking in all the sights. Dogs are welcome if kept on a 6-foot leash. Our dog had a blast running, playing, and watching all the ATVs driving up and down the dunes.

    Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is open 7 days a week during daylight hours. The entrance fee is $8.00 and camping is $20 a night.

    Look how small the people look! It gives you perspective on the size of the dunes. Don’t forget your backpack with water and snacks.

    hiking coral pink sand dunes state park
    sand boarding southern utah

    Sand sledding.

    sand sledding southern utah

    Read about our favorite pet-friendly hotel is Southern Utah, Best Friends Roadhouse and Kanab’s Best Restaurants. All are less than 30 miles from Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.

    To help plan your next trip to Southern Utah, visitsouthernutah.com. You can also search my blog using the words Kanab or Southern Utah.

    ©What Stirs Your Soul Media

  • Hi, My Name Is Tracy

    Hi, My Name Is Tracy

    Hi, I’m Tracy, the face behind What Stirs Your Soul Media.

    The question, “What stirs my soul?” kept popping in my head after a chronic illness diagnosis due to a brain injury. I felt an urgency to find my happiness. For the first time, I realized doctors can’t fix everything that is broken and it reminded me how quickly life can change.

    Have you ever asked yourself, what stirs your soul?

    My “short” answer is photography, writing, nature, and traveling, especially with my dog. It took time to figure that out and I still work on it. Because of that, I want to inspire and help others to live life on their own terms.

    I started my first blog in 2010. That blog opened up a new world when Guthrie Theater accepted me into their blogging program to review and write about the shows. Since then, I’ve continued working on my writing and photography skills. In 2011, I quit my corporate job and started a photography business. Over time my business changed as social media continued to grow and become such a big part of our lives.

    Now, I’m a content creator. I bring a human voice to digital media by creating moments, sparking emotion, and showcasing the people and community behind the business. Freelancing has allowed me to fulfill my dream of traveling alongside my freelancing husband and our rescue dog. We share our experiences here, offering inspiration for life and travel.

    Now, back to the chronic illness. I’ve had a hard time over the years articulating what it’s like living with chronic pain. The way it affects my daily life, my plans, and my dreams. I’m in a better place and hope to start writing more about it…sharing my journey and tips.

    We are also very passionate about helping animals. I am a volunteer for Best Friends Animal Society, writing stories and helping wherever needed when visiting the sanctuary. We commit to give back 5% of our blog’s earnings to Best Friends Animal Society.

    Follow along with us from our backyard in Minnesota to road tripping the U.S.! ✌️

  • Black Rock Mountain Resort – Park City, Utah

    Black Rock Mountain Resort – Park City, Utah

    New dog-friendly resort in Park City, Utah

    Black Rock Mountain Resort is a brand new four-season (dog-friendly) resort in Park City, Utah. I highly recommend driving up U.S. Route 189 from Provo, Utah when you visit. The towering mountain and deep canyon views are striking! A few miles before arriving at the resort, you pass Jordanelle State Park and Reservoir, the vast deep blue water resting under the Wasatch Mountain Range is breathtaking. Then, as you come around a corner, Black Rock Mountain Resort is standing tall on the edge of the Uintas Wilderness with the best views of the whole region.  

    We love this location because it is so close (literally minutes) to Park City but not right in the middle of town. Park City is really busy so I appreciate the easy access to the resort, parking, and use of the resort’s shuttle service. Because the resort is so new, we wondered if they had worked out the kinks and they definitely have. We were impressed and appreciated all the help we received from check-in to check-out. We were greeted at the door and asked if we needed assistance with our bags. Every staff member went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and answered questions about the area. One team member even gave a welcome treat to our dog, Allen. That’s all it took for him, he gives Black Rock five stars.

    The best mountain views

    The entrance to the resort is beautiful with wide-open space, plenty of seating, a fireplace, and The Market with locally sourced coffee. You can also pick up a quick breakfast, sandwiches, smoothies, tea, and whole fruit at the market.

    Black Rock Mountain Resort Lobby - new dog friendly resort park city

    The On The Rocks bar is gorgeous with more incredible views of the mountains. I could have relaxed here all day. There is also a full-service restaurant. The Overlook Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Chef is passionate about buying locally and is inspired by Utah’s unique environments from the mountains to the desert. The restaurant wasn’t quite open when we stayed but is open now and the food looks delicious (click the restaurant name to see all the mouth-watering pictures – I can’t wait to go back).

    On The Rocks bar Black Rock Mountain Resort Park City
    Mountain view Black Rock Mountain Resort Park City Utah
    New dog-friendly resort in Park City

    Another reason this is an awesome travel destination is all the adventuring. It’s easy to only think of skiing. The area offers hiking, fly-fishing, golfing, mountain biking, kayaking, paddle-boarding, Utah’s Olympic Park, and so much more. It’s nice because there really is something for everyone and something for all skill levels.

    Mountain views with hot tub - new dog friendly resort in park city

    The resort offers so many activities, you might not even want to adventure out. 😉 You can relax in the outdoor heated pool or hot tubs, take a temperature-controlled sauna or unwind in the steam room. There are the cutest outdoor fire-pits to cozy up and stargaze at that big beautiful Utah sky. They also have a huge lounge with big-screen TVs, pool tables, foosball, ping-pong, and gaming.

    New dog-friendly resort in Park City

    Because we always need more Allen…

    Here’s a view from the other direction.

    New dog-friendly resort in Park City
    New dog-friendly resort in Park City

    Cheers to traveling and experiencing new places!

    Learn more about Black Rock Mountain Resort: www.blackrockmountainresort.com

    Another very cool pet-friendly hotel in Utah is Best Friends Roadhouse in Kanab, Utah.

    Find more amazing places to explore in Utah by using my search feature on the home page.

    ©What Stirs Your Soul Media

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