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46.12 Nevada/California: The 'uncivilized' wilderness with its serenity, beauty, mystery and challenges contrasted with our 'civilized' cities.

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We have included a selection of one, sometimes two, photographs and some text from hikes undertaken but yet to be published. We try not make the error of judging this region to be one of the finest because we might end up eating our words for the umpteenth occasion. Jenni is far more reserved and intelligent in respect of this matter. However, I see and experience such incredible wonders that at times, I feel emotionally drained. Following a week during which we hiked 6 days in a row, accumulated 10,200 vertical feet and walked forty-four miles, we felt good about sitting around lazily for the Saturday. Truth be told, by the afternoon, boredom began to set in. Strange feeling. Friday afternoon, every muscle ached, the feet were crying and the Sabbath could not arrive soon enough. One of the reasons for the title relates to a couple of people who welcome us back to 'civilization' after a Hike-about trip. Here are a few excerpts: Wright Lake in the Desolation Wilderne...

46.11 Eastern Sierra, a glorious part of the world, like so many other incredible regions: By George, Lake.

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This hike occurred toward the latter part of June. We have often maintained, contrary to what most of our friends and family think, besides Mom, that we learn much from our experiences on the road and in the mountains. Each day is a learning adventure but on some, our intellectual advancement knows no bounds. Take the other day. We headed up to George Lake which is by way of Sabrina Lake but instead of continuing to Blue Lake (also from Sabrina) as we did a few days before that, we went directly up the steep mountain. Hats off to the trail builders who provide us opportunity to be trail-blazers but unfortunately, we fall short. We also fall on our faces quite often, too, although damage is cushioned by the egg on them. However, that’s another story...(continues at end). Returning from George Lake which is way above above Sabrina Lake. Early morning reflections as we pass Sabrina Lake. Reaching the only level part of the trail, all of ten feet. Arriving at George L...

46.10 Twin Bridges, CA: Desolation Wilderness: Mount Ralston, steep, tough and 'a taste of Heaven'.

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Sums up the feeling upon reaching the peak: "Can you believe these sights and views?" Arguably, one of the most beautiful peak views we've experienced. Often stated, always meant but frequently incorrect. Pyramid Peak, left, Lake of the Woods fore and Aloha Lakes below the mountains. By the way, that's Jenni upfront. Closer and more detailed view after 3,000 feet elevation gain. The climb was relentless but finally, we noticed a peak. At first glance, it was disappointing—a mere bump on the ridge, some 3,000 feet above our commencement point. The surroundings were of huge open spaces on the mountains as well as dense areas of trees, no particular feature prominent. Thus far, the hike comprised a strenuous, but most enjoyable climb in a good environment. For us, the elevation gain is an important facet. Glimpses of the incredible icon, Pyramid Peak, could be seen when the gaps between trees covering the mountain permitted. We crossed the talus, not on a...

46.09 Pollock Pines: Jenkinson Lake: A lighter day with a lucky break.

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In the last posted blog, we opined we hadn't seen an eagle in a while. The last time was 3 years ago, somewhere between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. The day following the previous blog posting, we spotted one flying over the lake and heading toward the trees. We followed it in a fashion, at ground level of course, and Jenni noticed it first. My eye caught what appeared to be a turkey vulture close by. Interestingly, a few ravens occupied the same tree as the eagle, something that surprised us. We thought the 'chief raptor' might intimidate those ugly birds. Ugliness knows no bounds. 'People have mentioned they like me to have varied poses—I quite like this position after early morning necking.' 'I enjoy my profile from this side, frankly. However, I suppose when you have it, it makes no difference. All my angles are beautiful and how about my eagle eye.' Meantime, at lake level... 'Rocky' is at it again. Can't r...