As Maude A often remarks, "Like a picture", although pretty rugged.
Our last visit to Mount Eddy was some 9 years ago. We thought is was not more than 5 years until we checked the blog. That time has elapsed without us realizing it, is testament to a number of things which we won't mention now. Suffice to say, it's indicative of how quickly the years pass and what awaits us around the corner. Whoever coined the phrase "Carpe Diem" ('Seize the Day'), something very close to our hearts, sure had an understanding of fleeting life.
Basically, the hike requires a person to cross a stream a number of times stepping upon rocks, many loose, including floating tree branches, negotiate muddy patches in the early stages and thereafter, walk a steep but reasonable trail. The last part appears to be tricky but proved to be less so although the ascent was constant. The real difficulty occurred because of high winds and extreme cold. As compensation, the colors, sheen of the lakes, surrounding mountains, richness of the flora together with the burnt-orange rocks, complemented with low cloud and mist, combined to make it an enriching experience. One could only wonder in awe as the massive mountains, deep ravines and tree-filled forests encompassed and dwarfed us.
Although the trail was quiet until we were half-way down, the few people we met were interesting as we expected. Many of the residents in the region are genuine mountain people which means they look different from city-slickers, are friendly, colorful and a little crazy. The nicer ones are usually even more crazy. Over the years, we've come to realize if you're not a little crazy (or a lot), you're not really living. Maybe, there are three types of people—crazy nice, crazy bad or just existing.
Without further ado, we invite you to continue viewing a part of California that differs greatly from the state south of Redding, a city close to Shasta. Hence, the title alluding to Oregon, which I have always felt should have stretched a little further south. Then again, I'm not seeking additional conflict in California—it has more than enough as it is.
Curtain opens for a brief period as things get a little wild on Mount Eddy.
Another curtain rises revealing the power of the region.
A change of altitude of 2,600 feet brings about different weather patterns. The peak is just over 9,000 feet.
Volcanic world.
Loved the view.
A lake on the other side of the ascent.
Where did the lush grass and flowers come from?
Liked the motion against the backdrop.
All the effort to arrive at this? What happened to risk reward ratios? On a clear day, we would have viewed the incredible Mount Shasta. It wasn't to be.
Another curtain rises revealing the power of the region.
A change of altitude of 2,600 feet brings about different weather patterns. The peak is just over 9,000 feet.
Volcanic world.
Loved the view.
A lake on the other side of the ascent.
Where did the lush grass and flowers come from?
Liked the motion against the backdrop.
All the effort to arrive at this? What happened to risk reward ratios? On a clear day, we would have viewed the incredible Mount Shasta. It wasn't to be.
About to reach the summit. At one stage, had to drop down to avoid being blown away. Gives new meaning to the phrase "Blown away".
Jen arrives on the shoulder. Looks like she needs a shoulder to cry on. Good timing and positioning. Where's Global warming when you need it?
Meantime it appears he's in line for the best dressed and groomed hiker west of the Mississippi.
Full background.
Captivating...one more in closing.
Cheers,
Jen arrives on the shoulder. Looks like she needs a shoulder to cry on. Good timing and positioning. Where's Global warming when you need it?
Meantime it appears he's in line for the best dressed and groomed hiker west of the Mississippi.
Full background.
Captivating...one more in closing.
Jenni and Jeffrey
Mount Shasta from Black Butte.
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