6.11 Black Butte, Shasta-Trinity National Forest

(Click on photos for perspective & then back button)

Black Butte as seen from the town (red dot is destination)

Mount Shasta from the town

Front row seating for the Editor

Feeling a little on edge with Shasta watching

The eyes blinked, opened wide again and then stared. The heart fluttered and the temperature rose quickly before settling a little lower. It felt like an icicle forming along the spine but in this heat, it surely wasn’t. Nevertheless, we shivered slightly. We gazed in amazement, mesmerized by such an incredible sight. Often, our editor has that effect over us. However, today the cause of this reaction in mind and body was from a different source. As we rounded a long, slow bend on the freeway, glorious Mount Shasta appeared. Like its ‘buddies’ , Hood and Rainier further north, it is more than just a landmark.

Some eleven years ago, we traveled with Gavin to Seattle where he served an internship. When we caught a glimpse of this majestic glacier-part-covered-mountain en route, we knew that one day we would return. Last October we hiked a couple of miles up as we only had allowed for an afternoon in Shasta. So now, we find ourselves in this magnificent region without any excuses unless we become more creative.

Rocky trail might just be an accurate statement

Then again, maybe it's a quarry

We were puzzled when our editor mentioned black beauty as a climb for today. We don’t get into issues of color and controversial topics. “I can’t help it if you can’t spell,” she informed us. “Black Butte, silly; and don’t go thinking I’m talking about your anatomy even though I find it very cute.” We must be honest—the last part we made up. Sometimes we are desperate. When we first looked at the stiff peak, we thought our editor was joking. "We don't see a way up to the top," we exclaimed. Of course, our protest was half-hearted. We were raring to get going.

The 'beauty' from Black Butte Peak

Today’s hike was superb or even better. We find ourselves in an exquisite part of the world. There are places that a person just knows will be exceptional—this is one of them. The hike, rated strenuous and attractive, requires rock stepping for about two miles. One needs tough soles and continuous concentration as each step is critical. There are views of Shasta for much of the trail, which makes for visual delights.

I forgot about the return. Silly me.

The first 'miracle' of the day is that we arrived at the trailhead with only one misstep. For a couple who consider getting out the car park on a first attempt as success, this was a good start. The trailhead, or what appeared to be the commencement point, was deserted and so was the hike. In our five hours, including the drive on the forest roads and time spent on the trail, we never came across another person. We are beginning to think the problem is not the trails but perhaps, our editor. Of course, it could not be her husband.

A rock slide? Now you tell me. I thought the rangers bonded these rocks safely.

Mount Shasta is spectacular. No doubt, we will mention more about our visit in the next few days as we prepare to climb her. We hope that she treats us well as we come with an abundance of respect and humility for this looming and dangerous edifice.

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

From our peak to the "big boys'" peak--maybe a partial attempt tomorrow

Working on some balancing techniques, poise will come later, hopefully.

Enough sunbathing. The last push is ahead.