The Forrest Fenn Finale

September 5, 2020 - photos by Eric

On the morning of September 5th, I found myself waking up in the woods, just west of Island Park, Idaho. Having driven most of the evening, I found a quiet forest road to rest until morning. When I awoke I fully expected to be surrounded by forest animals…which I was, but they were hiding.

I arrived at West Yellowstone at 10am, with the expectations of driving into Yellowstone National Park. A group of my “treasure hunting” friends, of whom I've never met, and who do not know me, were meeting at Fishing Bridge for a group photo, at 12 noon, sharp.

A line of automobiles stretched completely through town and around the corner towards Idaho, and I knew it was unlikely that I could reach the destination in time. No matter, there was plenty to do and see elsewhere.

It was a sunny day, with a slight breeze and a sense of excitement in the air. As I walked the streets, I passed many tourists who were smiling beneath their pandemic “resistant” masks. I always smiled back, from beneath mine.

I grabbed a late breakfast at “The Buffalo Bar” before heading north on Hi-way 191, toward Hebgen Lake. I have read stories from the memoirs of Forrest Fenn about this area, and my visit made them come more to life.

Earthquake Lake

I imagined his brother Skippy (William) landing a pontoon plane on Hebgen Lake and then trying to take off, causing a lot of excitement for his family. A little further down the road I came to Earthquake Lake. This area was quiet and serene. The wind was stiff and the beauty is life changing. After visiting the Earthquake Lake Visitor Center I began my trek back to West Yellowstone.

I arrived at the city park around 4pm. I strained to see if I recognized any of my friends. Suddenly there faces became more familiar. There was Kpro, Cynthia, Matt, GTC, Candy, and I met many others.

Because I have watched them on Youtube for a few years, it seems as though we have been acquainted for some time. Even though we had never met, everyone was friendly and it was truly a wonderful time.

Smell the Sunshine (Matt), read letters from many of the searchers that could not attend and the final letter was from Forrest.

As the sun set behind the western mountains, the days events came to an end; I sensed that it was a strange occurrence, that so many people, from so many places, would come together to celebrate something so rare, as the “Thrill of the Chase”.

I look forward to the many adventures that are waiting near the surface of thought and action. Till our paths cross again, adieu.