Identification: Plant? ID needed please

I saw this along a trail in Glacier national park last week. I'm new to the area and have no idea what it is. Thanks!

 

Dug this up from the past...
dead man's fingers, Xylaria polymorpha

 

It looks more like Clavaria purpurea to me.
Compare this.

 

I was going to say Clavaria purpurea, even before reading Geastrums post who suggested the same thing. see http://www.cegep-sept-iles.qc.ca/raymondboyer/champignons/Images/Clavaria_purpurea.jpg

 

I concur on C. purpurea