6.19 Cinder Cone, Lassen Volcanic National Park

Editor calls for rope as she struggles from crater floor

Editor's dummy calls 911 as he struggles up cone

Captivating painted dunes with sporadic trees, a real stunner--lava rock behind, then lake and mountains.

We had no idea what to expect as we approached Lassen via a forest road. The entrance, at Butte Lake, is an unmanned and rustic path to this wonderful park. After walking and climbing for two miles, we found ourselves at the peak of a cinder cone. The going was tough as the cinder is soft, not allowing for a decent footing. However, after a 700 feet climb, one is in a ‘fairy land’. It is far better to allow the photographs to give one perspective of this amazing place as the views are so spectacular that our words would fall flat. Suffice to say, we were bowled over by the painted dunes; the walk down into the crater was a unique experience, which was followed by circumventing the top of the crater and the base of the cone, topped off with a walk in the wilderness surrounding the volcano. It had the feel of Tongariro on the North Island of New Zealand and Haleakala on Maui, Hawaii. This is in a smaller area than the former two; nevertheless, is very dramatic. We had to pinch ourselves to remember we weren’t dreaming. The only discomfort experienced was the gusting winds at the peak.

More of beautiful painted dunes

We met Mr. Chester Wright , a local and had a wonderful chat. We don’t often ask people their ages but we inquired of his. 'Eighty,’ he replied firmly. We shook his hand and wondered if we were more impressed with the hand-breaking squeeze or the feat of climbing that quite strenuous volcano wall. In fact, we have met many varied and interesting people on this trip—it adds much to hike-about.

Standing tall and proud...not you, Dummy...Mt Lassen

Editor makes a soft start

Lassen laughing at Cinder Cone slope

On a less positive note, we bumped into three large groups of schoolchildren on a fieldtrip. We remember the same thing happening in New Zealand recently. The difference is that the latter were respectful and friendly whilst the former are surly and avoid any eye or oral contact. The policy of teaching kids not to talk to strangers seems to be working extraordinarily well. Is there not a better way than to presume all men are predators? Is there an age that they are ‘untaught’ this so that people are able to relate to each other? Excuse the rant but years of noticing this trend is of deep concern.

"The pit was empty, it contained no water"--(Genesis) plus the little guy at the bottom

We came across Glynn who spends time camping in the wilderness. He gave us a good talking too and explained that we were very foolish to inform our friends of the great wonder and beauty in the wilds. ‘Why do you say that? How can we not tell our friends of the serenity, peacefulness and wonderment?’ We replied.
“How long do you think things will remain like this once the rest of the country finds out?” He answered. In a selfish way, he is right, of course. So remember, you didn’t ‘hear’ it from us.

Lassen peeps into abyss

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

All downhill towards the lake

Editor going up to top, down into crater, back up, around base and then who knows...maybe 'nuts'

Loving couple before editor flipped spouse into crater for flippant remark

Sliding sands

Sloping cone and peeking Lassen

6.17 Britton Lake and Burney Falls, somewhere in N. California , don't ask--we can't tell

Listen to the silent, still water

Our muscles are complaining again. Time to ease off a little as we move slowly towards Lassen Volcanic National Park, home to all four types of volcanoes. This is important to know. Should one of the four explode or in fact, any number of them, we would like to know what type ‘killed’ us. Knowledge is very important.

We left Dunsmuir heading south east passing through McCloud, Burney, Hat Creek , finally arriving at Old Station. Often, we have no idea where we are but we have a fondness for most of the places we visit. There are so many truly beautiful areas that one sometimes gapes in awe. As we stay in different establishments on a regular basis, we now consider a successful day to be one in which both of us find our way to the bathroom during the night without bumping into anything or should we be in relay mode, each other.

Burney Falls, both barrels open

We arrived at the Hat Creek Inn, which you would think is in Hat Creek but actually is in Old Station. Of course, we think the Old Station Inn is in Hat Creek but we haven’t verified that yet. We do have some more important things to do…we think. Our current ‘home’ comprises a motel, cabins, RV park and campsites. It is wonderful because while we sit and ponder the major issues of life, our editor goes down to the common bathroom, fills a small tub of hot water and carries it back so that we can bathe. She then cooks dinner, cleans and plans the following day’s activities while we continue to ponder and think. We don’t know that we can maintain this pace—the thinking is creating a strain. Sometimes we wish we could relax as our dear editor does. However, someone has to be responsible. (Our accommodation is very comfortable, Mom).

Not high but very wide and 'handsome'

We extended our stay on arrival. The receptionist mentioned: ‘The motel is filling fast as the hunting season begins on Shabbos.’ (She might have said Saturday). What a pity we’ll have to miss the opening ; alas, we cannot do any shooting on the holy day. We need to check with our Rabbi whether we can use our bow and arrow; we need a ‘chicken for the pot’. Our editor seems to think the hunters will be aiming for something more than fowl though. We are more than satisfied to pull a few tomatoes and lettuce from the ground or make a ‘stab’ for a cabbage at Safeway—that’s about as macho manly as we get.

Side view of falls as we walked by

It was a travel and take it easy day so we visited the MacArthur Burney Park en route to Old Station. We enjoyed some ‘water sports’ at leisure. It is a wonderful place to spend time especially before tackling the spectacular Lassen forests.

Tree-hugger, clouds and trees reflect off lake surface

'Spider Falls': The source of the water is from a spring thus flowing not only 'in spring'

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

6.16 The Dome and Crags at Castle Crags State Park, Dunsmuir

First sighting after nearly two miles stiff incline

Mushroom Cloud 'outside of New Mexico'

Jenni on path to Dome

The manager, Shawna, ‘dragged’ us ‘out of the Inn’ yesterday as she needed room for a crowd from England and Spain. Many people visit Shasta for the vortex, the energy, the ‘light’ and probably a host of other reasons. We lack many attributes but are not without a spiritual side; we seek it from a different source. Nevertheless, in this region as in so many others, our spirits soar and our energy levels drain. Perhaps we too, should be looking for more energy. Our editor mentioned that less hiking would conserve it—there you are. We hope she is joking because after a night’s sleep, we are raring to go…back to sleep.

Seven nights at the Inn in Shasta and we needed one more so we could enjoy our final hike in the area making it six, a full-house. ‘No room’ so we traveled six miles south, arriving in the town of Dunsmuir. The town itself may not be a world wonder but the surroundings are unbelievable. It is like being in the best parts of Oregon—trees, mountains and more trees. We needed some provisions so we ‘popped’ into the grocery store. Everybody knew each other and it struck us as a place of social gatherings. ‘What are you doing tonight? The girls are meeting at the fresh fruit-stand; the boys are over at the beer fridge; Jeffrey’s at the soda machine.’ Remove our stylish hats; we’d look just like locals. Hmm! Northern California is so different from the southern part, in our opinion, that it appears the only things in common are the licence plates and name. It feels like we’re in Oregon.

Above the tree tops, breathtaking and scary

Some rock--an old 'child's' fantasy

It is amazing that one finds unique spots almost daily. Castle Crags Park is just one of them. It provides fascinating viewing and opportunity for playing on these unusual and very large boulder/rock formations and crags. The hike is a fraction under six miles but we increased it by another mile for a reason that shall remain unwritten. The elevation gain is a relentless 2,500 feet through a forest for nearly 2 miles followed by a stone and rock path. It is a great hike if only for the workout but of course, the feel and surroundings make it quite exceptional. Thereafter, one gets above the trees and is presented with unusual views of these boulders and jagged rocks, in many shapes, forms and sizes. It includes the dome, a view of Mount Shasta, a myriad of mountain ranges on all sides and deep valleys covered in trees. To put it simply, it’s gorgeous.

Side of dome & ghost of Shasta bashful in cloud (click on pic)

Boulders, boulders and then some

After struggling and sweating for forty minutes up the steep incline, our editor exclaimed, “You have a screw loose.” We knew it was tough but her criticism surprised us. We mentioned this to her. “Your sunglasses,” she explained. “The screw has fallen out; that’s why they appear broken.” Aha! They are a very special gift received from the Sneag’s, so we were most relieved.

Castles at the summit

Our stay in Shasta was memorable for many reasons, of course, the hiking and climbing being superb. Also, we continue to learn about the hospitality industry. We can see that ‘saving the world’ plays right into their budgets. “Re-use the towels, short showers only, conserve electricity, eat healthy, lean breakfasts... are stressed. We can’t help being a little cynical about this ‘green attitude’. These ideas reduce services to guests thus lowering costs for the operator. Good deal! Perhaps, we are unfair.

Anyway, the Inn served health foods, many with the necessary kosher symbols. There was plenty of healthy foods available though; more than enough to keep a person hungry. What tickled us is when we noticed the weekly staff luncheon in progress last Friday. The menu: Pizzas with multi-toppings, sodas with caffeine and of course, chocolate cake and ice-cream to complete the snack. Now that’s what we call 'healthy living'.

Looking back into the ranges

A little more rock play

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

Jenni approaching the summit, castles awaiting

Full dome and Shasta again, one last time. Farewell!

6.15 Lake Helen, Mount Shasta (Avalanche Gulch Trail)

After a rough Saturday night, the 'lady' is not herself.

There is always a beginning--here comes the editor

'Welcome to Lake Helen, throw a log on the fire, one whiskey coming up, double of course'

Looking down snowfield towards Shasta City & mountains beyond

“Pack a swimsuit and towel, we’re going to the lake today,” our editor commanded.
“Where?” We wanted to know. “Should we take the red one as well as the blue in case we do a lot of swimming?”
“Seeing you only have one with you, Smart Alec, take it. We are climbing to 10,400 feet with an elevation gain of 3,600 feet, a distance of eight miles round-trip. By that time, you will be sweating profusely; the water will be inviting presuming you make it. Good idea?”

A view of the peak—coming over a crest

After learning the terminology from the southern gang the previous night, the wedding party guests we mentioned, we nearly exclaimed, ‘Yee-haw’. However, we are not ready to be a Texan just yet so we smiled ‘sweetly’ and set out again to attempt another climb on Mount Shasta. What a day! Shasta is a wonderful edifice but also heartless and tough. From close, she is hard, covered with rocks, boulders, scree and little vegetation. On the sides of the sort-of-trail (there is no real trail), are jagged rocks that are haunting and powerful. However, the snowfields and glaciers provide the relief that tones down her harshness. We’ll begin to worry when we start dreaming of her. Jenni mentioned should that happen, she’ll bring a lawsuit against the US Forestry Department for ‘alienation of affection’.

A little of everything. Something to bring us back again...and again

The day began warm and cloudless. However, once we arrived at Bunny Flat, the trailhead, the clouds became active over the peak. We trekked through a forest for 1.8 miles before arriving at “Horse Camp’. From there a causeway of rocks that continues for half-a-mile or so took us higher. Then it is uphill all the way on rough footing up the western side. (Last week we hiked the eastern slope). First stop is ‘50:50’ where some pitch tents. The next stage, our destination, is Lake Helen. When we looked at it from below (at 50:50), lousy odds, we were amazed at what we still had to climb. We headed up, lost sight of the ‘trail’, recaptured it, crossed a snowfield, moved higher and then noticed a slightly worn path on the far side of another snowfield and decided to re-recapture a path there. We made our way across and in a calf-aching climb, reached the destination.

Before the snow began falling...before the slope began increasing

In the early stages of the hike, it began to rain and the clouds looked ominous. Our dear editor pushed on and upwards but after a while, her fear of possible lightning caused consternation. She was gracious in deciding to turn back and encouraging the rest of the team (team?) to continue. It began to snow, something we do not know much about, but we now had the ‘bit between the teeth’ and we were going upwards, snow or rain, until we reached Lake Helen. After all, why carry a swimsuit and then decide not to use it.

The scenery changed, becoming predominantly more dramatic with large snowfields and harsh rock faces—really powerful stuff. We reached the ‘Lake’ only to find it completely snowed under. Big surprise. (Of course, we knew that). It was a moment that provided a very uplifting feeling just like many do. We did not mention that we kept glancing away from the mountain as we moved up to view the many ranges in the distance as well as Siskiyou Lake and the City of Shasta. The contrast of snow and gloom on the mountain with sunshine in the valley, too, was dramatic. At that stage, it was appropriate to say a blessing to the Master. To be alone, on this massive mountain of rock and snow, with views stretching a hundred miles is beyond description. It is an incredible feeling not only a physical experience.

A side view of the lonely slope

Harsh and desolate but full of character, nice 'personality', too

With snow falling hard and a slight worry about finding a way down, off we went after a quick snack. That was a disappointment as it would have been wonderful to sit longer and take in so much more that Shasta offers. After descending more than a thousand feet, we met a woman of amazing spirit and zest for life—what a privilege. We swapped stories with Linda and found much common ground. “Wait for me, Jeffrey,” she said, “I'm going back with you.” This woman recently fought off cancer, had both knees replaced and is some ten years older than us. “Yes, Ma’am,” we answered, “we’d be honored and delighted—just don’t run too fast.”

Snow softens the look of volcanic mountain

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

An indication that it can be a little rough

Jen making good progress under a darkening sky--Mt. Eddy rear right

Lake Helen, Mount Shasta looking towards the peaks (water in a different form)

Our last photo' from the slopes of Mt. Shasta

6.14 Deadfall Lakes up to Mount Eddy

After this hike, we were having some fun on other boulders:
Click on pics to get the idea.

Jenni appears anything but edgy

The flying Jew over lovers' leap

Back to the regular hike:

Jenni at Summit of Mount Eddy with Shasta in background. Click on pics for perspective

That's only the first part? Another 1,000 feet after that? Get yourself another partner.

We remember not once but on two occasions when our dear editor called us, inter alia, a ‘wuss’. For those who are not familiar with such coarse and uncalled for language, she was intimating cowardice as we stood on a ledge quivering—we did not feel that brave. Sometimes it happens, particularly in the earlier days. Yesterday, when we thought she called us a ‘weed’, our patience was beginning to wear thin. How much ‘name-calling’ is a person expected to take.

It is with relief that she explained that the hike selected was close to the town of Weed. This made us feel much better but we still wondered if she was hinting at something. When she has the glint in her eye, we don’t know whether she is finding us ‘attractive’ (unusual) or wishing to tease. Whatever the answer, we did what at least the ‘wuss’ believes is one of the best all-round hikes ever. Funnily enough, it was approximately number two hundred since hike-about began some 16 months ago. The number seems fitting.

Middle Lake serenity

The trail is eleven miles long, which gives it substance, an elevation gain of 2,200 feet, most of it in only two miles making it strenuous, views of the southern cascade mountain range, which are staggering, the Trinity Alps, gorgeous, meadows and lakes. Finally, upon reaching the summit, Mount Shasta is there to greet and welcome the visitors on Mount Eddy. The face of one of the cliffs again portrayed the colors and textures that we recently mentioned of Haleakala in Maui. From a personal perspective, the energy level was high and we sauntered up that mountain trail with relative ease, which from certain angles had us wondering how it would reach the top. Mount Eddy is one of those places where there are too many wonderful things to observe in just one outing.

Trinity Alps

Editor slowing as she admires the views or struggles with the incline

Not only was nature very attractive throughout the trail but we met fellow hikers who made the day particularly enjoyable. Shirley and Wendy from Ashland were at the summit when we arrived. These charming ladies were a real treat to meet and with which to discuss various issues. Coincidentally, Wendy has one granddaughter, Ailie who was born two days after our Ellie. She also shares the same name as our late sister. At the lake level, we met Cindy and John who offered us hospitality. Some days, it’s the people that make hike-about so special or add much more to it.

Shabbos in Shasta was terrific, relaxing and a little different. Firstly, the power of Devarim (Deuteronomy) can ‘knock one’s socks off’. What was different was that wedding guests filled the inn, including the bride. Shasta was excited or certainly our little corner of the world. It appears that many of the guests are southerners so there has been a lot of “y’alls” including a couple of “ye-haws”. It all adds to the color, amusement and the learning although we are wondering how it will affect tonight’s sleep once the partygoers return.

Peak of Mount Eddy with the 'lady' appearing at rear. In between is Black Butte

On Sunday, we are going to approach the lady, Mt Shasta, from another side, for another turn at her. It makes us think of a quote from another famous lady whom we admire who said, “This lady’s not for turning”—Dame Thatcher.

The Southern Cascades from Mt Eddy summit

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

6.13 Castle and Heart Lakes, climbing to the ridge above lakes

Hmm!

Who would read what we write when people have access to grand announcements from POTUS? In case there is anyone out there, we believe the more things change, the more they remain the same. We don’t see change in human behavior since the beginning. Of course, we realize even our editor hasn’t been around that long but we trust the written word and oral traditions. Anyway, the only change worth anything is when a person improves him/herself. As one sage once said and we misquote him poorly and append: “(t)he rest is just political hype”. As an aside, we notice 'that change’ may be out of vogue nowadays.

Jenni on cliff above Castle Lake with Shasta, of course

Jenni on rocks above Castle Lake (Click on pics)

When the silliness gets too much for us, we head for the mountains. In most places, we travel through the forests and are amazed at the vast lands that are uninhabited by man. We surprise ourselves at times as we motor south for four miles, east on gravel for six, swing another right at marker 52, over the potholes, through the soft sand and dust, eventually arriving, well usually, at a trailhead. Most times, nobody is about. It seems surreal—we are the last remaining beings on earth… or maybe in that forest. Then a person will sit or stand, depending on gender, to relieve oneself and all of a sudden, the forest has another couple of visitors. It happens more often than one would expect.

High dive from 'white beaut' with Black Butte in background

Symmetry with Shasta

The wilderness in Shasta-Trinity is far different from that we expected. In fact, what we saw today is amazing. We should have ceased showering, shaving, brushing hair and wearing fresh clothing about three weeks ago. Then we would fit in very well with the campers we passed at the lakes. Periodically, we admit that we are ‘square’ (oh, for a narrow waistline) but at least we are clean and without full body tattoos, unwashed dreadlocks and iron pieces protruding from our faces. Sometimes we fear for the animals for what they have to face. We think we got side-tracked again. Shasta is a wonderful place, in fact much more than that. We would like to visit frequently but not live here, though. If only we could take the mountain with us—that would be a 'wow'. Our editor reminded us that we first need to buy a house with a fairly large backyard. She’s become so detail orientated.

Hurry with my coffee, Dear

Today we decided that we should ease off a little. We needed to rest and be ready for the president’s speech. Should you believe that, we have a bridge in Brooklyn for you. Our rest day was truncated a little as we ended up hiking a short but steep hill around various lakes. The boulders at the peak were a delight and so we resorted to climbing and scrambling over the remnants of the last volcanic eruption. Now that we are ‘rested’, we have a couple of big ones ahead with the Shabbos to reinvigorate us.

A room with a view. Don't roll though

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey