It's fascinating. In fact, it's more than that. How is it possible that each period on the trails, in the mountains, the forests or any natural place, the day differs from the previous occasion? Each moment reveals surprises, secrets, revelations of the mystique and beauty of our planet. It goes without saying that variables such as the weather, including the sun, moon and other elements assist by enhancing differences. Bearing the latter comment in mind, our point is not that these elements are the only causation of variation in nature, specifically, the sights and experiences from/on the trails. No, not at all. There are a myriad of differences throughout the natural world we witness as we proceed. To top it all, in the earlier days we always wondered whether we would see something special on our hike of that day. Now we don't have to think about it. It's a given. Each day we will see new sights. What a treat, a blessing … a miracle?
Mount Olympus, elevation gain of 4,200 feet, viewed at sunset from hotel parking lot. This one will not be forgotten. While we may have different views and opinions from other citizens, we are grateful to 'Old Glory' and the country for accepting two little people and their children. Separately, as South African author, Alan Paton wrote, and we find it fitting to adapt and apply to the natural wonders of the Western United States, "Ah But Your Land is Beautiful".
Idaho: Borah Mountain, one early morning, a tough climb. Our intention was to reach somewhere over 3,000 feet and turn around, which we did. The full hike requires proper preparation for which we were not ready. If you follow the trail lower down, (clear at the commencement of the climb), the white dot is our car.
Reaching one of many high spots on this fearsome mountain.
Utah: Lake Blanche, a solid hike and a couple of lakes.
On the way, we lost the trail and went across an avalanche area before realizing our error.
Idaho, Norton Peak: Guess who reaches a stunning peak on a rather tough final climb in snow and scree.
We 'brunched' at this view position after descending the tricky decline. No use eating before we got to a relatively safe place … indigestion?
Utah: Desolation Lake reflects.
Utah: On the peak of Gobbler's Knob, after crossing 5 false peaks. Close to 3,200 feet elevation gain.
Jen returning toward the saddle separating Gobbler's Knob and Mount Raymond. The altitude difference of the two mountains is 5 feet.
Salt Lake City (downtown and airport) from Grandeur Peak, a little under 3,000 feet elevation gain.
Looking down into the canyon and trail.
Sun brings up coloring of exposed mountain face in Salt Lake as seen from Mount Grandeur.
Interesting position at lake level as sun highlights a visitor along Lake Mary.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
No comments:
Post a Comment