25.11 Lava Butte, a backcountry hike and climbing experience off trail, par excellence.
A view to the north from the peak of Lava Butte. As an all-round hiking experience and visual extravaganza, the backcountry walk and subsequent real climb of this tough butte hails as one of my best ‘accomplishments’ on the trails. I’m trying hard to be humble—I’m reminded of what Winston Churchill said to a colleague, “With your attributes, you have an awful lot to be humble about.” Nevertheless, now and again one does something that's a little above the norm and today was one such event. Forgive me my moment of glory and I'll excuse you from reading further. Jenni was still sick so she sent me out, reluctantly (that’s me), to explore the region I’ve come to believe is one of the finest we have visited. I never thought I’d ‘fall in love’ with the greater Las Vegas district—there’s no accounting for taste. Yet, the more time spent in deserts, the more I realize the effect they have on me. Many of the sights I’m privileged to witness are like paintings—painted deserts....