Conglomeration

I sit at one of my favorite Wasatch lakes, Red Pine, sipping hot licorice and mint tea brewed over a hastily made alcohol stove and windscreen.  I recognize it's days later than when I last left the Uinta's. So here's the rundown.
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I chose to leave Red Castle earlier than planned due to the cool of the night.  I essentially had a summer kit that did not include room for the cooler temps of 4 am.  Cold I was not.  Prepared I was however the forecast also called for rain the last time I checked, over Tuesday.  I met a few hiking in who said the forecast now included snow.  Yeah, no.  So I am glad I bailed.  Red Castle is worth a 3 hour drive and 5 hour hike in to see.  I've posted a few photos on my Flickr site and will post more.
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Wednesday I took off to hike the Butler Fork Loop.  It's 8 miles, more if you add detours to Dog Lake, Reynolds Peak, Mill A, and others. I took off towards Reynolds and tagged Dog Lake.  I quickly wrapped around the basin and into Mill A.  Sometimes I'll add Mt Raymond, this time I chose not to, instead I added Maxfield Basin.  I noted some of the under brush beginning to change colors and most of the grass is dry.  A few groves of aspen show black speckles on their leaves.  I ponder, will this be a short color season and an early winter if this is happening in August which normally doesn't start till September?
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On my way down (Butler Loop), near the first/last trail junction I happened into a moose a bit too close for comfort.  The under brush and willows are still thick enough not to see far in this particular spot weaving along the creek.  Since he owns this area I gave wide berth as I detoured around him.
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I will give complements to the Forest Service's trail crews for making some improvements to the trails this summer. They've worked on sections of the Desolation Trail in Butler Fork, towards Desolation Lake, Mill A, above Maxfield Basin, and others.  They've leveled out, added switchbacks, attempted to narrow the ever widening paths, as well as do general trail management.  Please respect their work and do not create any new trails, cut switchbacks, add carins, etc.  The Forest Service does not have the manpower nor the resources to effectively police and steward.  Please if you see something a miss, report it.  If you see someone doing something not right, be strategic in saying something to them.  If you see trash, take it out. Or a switchback being cut, block it with a few branches.  Our public lands are all of our responsibility, not just a few persons.
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A chilly wind crosses Red Pine.  I know weather is moving in for tomorrow.  This might be the last time I get up here before snow fall.  The Salt Lake Tribune calls this place one of Salt Lake's top hiking destinations.  It's easy to see why with groves of aspens and evergreens, the alpine lake within an easy reach of the Valley, surrounded by towering granite mountains.  All that and a moderate hike for most people.
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Hike on!

Vacation Hike, Red Castle

Sitting on the wooden bridge over Smith Creek, I looked to the butte in front of me.  Nearly 7 years ago I sat here.  I worked for a different company and consecutively had 3 days off there.  Today, I'm on vacation having taken one week to complete a thru-hike of the Tahoe Rim Trail I decided a low elevation gain, multi day hike would be nice.
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Every basin in the Uinta's are unique and many also share similar features.  One common feature is the long hike in around meadows up a stream.  The horse manure isn't a feature but is present along with flies and mosquitoes. I'm very fortunate to have only one Uinta's hike with the mosquitoes this summer.  Another feature these hikes share is a large upper basin with a series of small lakes.
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What sets this hike apart from the rest is the dominant feature is a 12,000ft tall mountain of red and green cliffs that looks like an imposing fortress.  Another feature is the elevation gain is gradual except for one spot when one actually turns towards the moutain and goes up a short series of switchbacks before resuming a follow the meadow course.
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I got up from my own bed this morning at my usual work time and was on the road by my usual work time.  All of this is an hour later than if I were getting up to ruck the Uinta's on a normal weekend. A weekend ruck is worth loosing sleep over.
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The trailhead was packed.  The trail was busy with folks headed out. There's a few campers up here.  The archery season just began and a few elk hunters are making camp for their season.  Fishing is a big deal up here and as I type, the fish are jumping.  A good chill is in the air.  Who knew late August is fall in the mountains while the city is still suffering from summer's heat?
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This method of blog delivery does not allow me to post images.  If I did you'd me making plans to get here before it gets too cold.  Hopefully I won't be too cold tonight.  I did a quick gear swap after I got home.  I'm using the Gossamer Gear Mariposa pack. With this pack the frame sheet is a sit pad or in my case a 3/4 Lenght Z-rest sleeping pad.  I also ditched the bag liner, more for convenience than anything.  I didn't check my lighter, that just died.  I tossed the matches but made sure I had a striker and fiero rod.  I did grab the Fireant stove and a few cotton balls.  I think I'm set but 11,000 feet is different than last week's 9,000. Even if I get chilled I can always use my rain gear as an extra layer.
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Hike on.
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PS the sky is amazingly clear.  I wanted to cowboy camp under the stars.  I'll be in my tent instead.

Red Castle, day 2, base camp

The night was a bit chilly then again I did do a quick gear swap of the pad and left the sleeping bag liner home.  I lay in bed until the sun peaked the horizon.  At that moment I leaped to my feet, took a few photos of the sun on the lake and moutain.  I made hot coffee using an esbit tablet in the Fireant.  I continued to enjoy the morning.
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I readied myself for a day hike, leaving everything else in the tent.  I wrapped around to Smith's Fork.  Making my way along I heard an awful sound on the wind.  This trail scuttle along the westside avoiding the meadows.  At an over look, I saw the ruckus, sheep, about 100 head.
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As the trail topped out, I took a break with the valley below and the basin behind.  There were no lakes in the valley, just them noisy sheep and their shepherds.
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I decided to follow the trail up through the basin.  I began to follow a faint trail above the Smith's Pass Lake.  I paused often for the altitude approached 12,000.
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The pass s sprawling, no steep portions, no tricky approaches, etc.  I found a big rock and took a nap.  I did look at the map whike up there, too.  The Highline Trail connects about a mile south. This end is the top of one of the basins I've planned a hike into.  I was amazed by the vast openness of what I saw including the cliff faced mountains next to scree slopes.
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Noticing building clouds I took off.  It's funny how down goes so much faster than up. A hint of rain loomed. I got to my camp long before any sprinkles and a little wind.
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I played a bit with my camera settings and some of the programmed filters.  Why didn't I do that on top?  The dramatic setting really pops the mood of the clouds and lake. I might have gone overboard with using it this afternoon.
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I tried my fiero rod into some old camp coals, no go.  I tried it into cotton balls, works to good.  Now I know, fibrous materials is what it takes to get this thing to work.  I did get my lighter to work one more time for dinner.
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I'm sitting by the glassy lake.  A few fishermen work their fly lines a ways up. Crazy beautiful.
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The clouds are still present, no longer building with the day.  Last night the weather broke and I had Milkyway deluxe above me.  I ponder if tonight will be the same?
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Hike On!

Day 7, exit day

As the sun set last night I chose to pack down the tent to sleep under the sky.  A full moon rose over head to wash out all but the brightest of stars.  I awoke at first light, sat up wrapping myself up I the quilt until the alarm sang.  Yes, even though time holds nothing g out here, I still like to get moving early and to do that I set something to remind myself to get moving.
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I was packed by 7 am sitting by the lake watching light dance on high trees.  Shortly after on the trail.
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The trail moved quickly mostly down with some up as I went through the Heavenly Ski Resort area.  I reflected that most of the zones were similar across the region.  The last place I saw the changers on such a regular basis was in the Smokies, where the zones moved with altitude.  I couldn't place how or why the zones here change.
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I hit NV hwy 207.  I was done.  My TRT hike came to a close at a pretty unassuming road crossing.  I hike up to the restaurant on Tramway. Ate a burger then another adventure began.
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Catching the buses weren't an issue.  Like clock work, on time, and expected.  At my last stop I noticed a little sign taped to the bench, "runs only on weekends"  I was suck.  How now do I get from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City without hitching?  Hitching in CA is not allowed.  I don't know all the rules but I know here would not be the time to find out about the wrong ones.
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I walked a bock or two to the out fitters. This area is known as the Y in South Lake Tahoe.  The out fitters had a list of Trail Angels helping out PCT hikers.  May be one would help me all the way or at least to Tahoma where buses resume.  Short of a dozen calls later on a dying phone  battery, I made contact with one willing to take me all the way.
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1/2 later I threw my pack into the back of his pickup truck.  An avid hiker himself he noticed hikers needing rides so he started picking them up, eventually he let his name be added to the list of Trail Angels.  The time flew by and I noticed we were passing my stop.  All he asked for in exchange was a photo of me and my pack.
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The TRT'S taught me loads when it comes to trip planning that the AT did not.  Alot of my preparation cane from the AT.  This one definitely taught me more about transportation than anything else when it comes to resupply and trail logistics.  These will definitely be considered in the future.
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I've noticed also on this trip, every other day someone has done something for me.  A package of beef jerky, a jug of water, today I asked specifically for the item and someone went out of their way for me.  It wasn't for the lack of planning that this happened, I just failed to consider not all buses run everyday, something us urbanites take for granted.
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I forgot to mention.  On the way down from Star Lake there aren't very many camp able sites.  If you read this consider going from South Camp right though to Star Lake.  PS it's a dry section.
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I sit as light fades not at a campsite rather at a hostel in Kings Beach.  No moon or stars for me tonight.  A hot shower came and passed already.  Another fast tip, always carry your own soap especially if you might hostel it. I had just enough in my backpack.
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I still have time off so where to hike now?  I hope this read is enjoyable.  Please let me know how I can improve your reading enjoyment.
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Hike on!

Day 5, Freel Meadows

Rising early, I caught reflections on the water of Showers Lake.  I tend to like the reflection photos better than any other kind for lakes.  The stillness of the day surrounds me in those moments.  I also jumped up to a nearby view point a hundred feet away from my camp, wow a great view right into the rising sun.
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The PCT section hiker caught up to me.  He thought he had another hour to hike.  I could easily played him last night, nah, I'm to nice.
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2 miles south the TRT splits to the north from the PCT.  One day I'll be back at this same spot.  In this meadow a lone cabin sets surrounded by rolling canyon walls.
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2 miles north is Round Lake.  Still early enough I caught reflections photos.  Score, two lakes today with reflections.  These would be the only lakes.  The rest are meadows and some views.
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At Big Meadows trailhead I sat to tend my feet, let the useless solar panel catch some rays, and eat lunch.  While there, a fellow pulled in and recognized me from Richardson Lake.  He asked if there was anything I needed, beer, batteries,  jalapeño chips.  I forgot to get water at Big Meadows as two horses stood in the creek so, water.  This is now my third trail magic of this trip.  Water, something that simple can go along way.
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I bounded up Grass Lake trail to the top.  It's 1,000 feet over 2 1/2 miles.  Not an issue even while carrying 3 litters of water.  This section from Grass Lake to Star Lake is dry, we'll almost. Near the top, a few meadows dot the landscape, it began to sprinkle.  Meanwhile at the bottom of my pack is all my rain gear and none of my gear is in plastic bags.  I pulled out my clear ground sheet, wrapping myself pack up, I made way.
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The AT got me use to hiking in rain.  Rain gear is used on laundry day, as dry clothes around camp, or for regulating body heat on cold days.  Only in extreme cases did one don rain gear while it rained.  The rain didn't get heavy, yet.
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At one view, I rested and checked/sent messages.  The view included South Tahoe's airport.
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As I made way over Freel Pass and Meadows, I coukd easily see why people in the spring got lost.  The trail follows no natural contour or meadow, or ridge line.  Freel Meadows, itself, has a small stream in it.  I could hear it running but did not see a trail to it.
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At one view a tent popped up.  I chatted with the couple there.  They were counterclockwise hikers too.  As I finished a quick snack the rain returned.   Okay, ridgeline, rain, tent, okay I hoped the weather would break for their safety.  Indeed 2 hours later the sky cleared.
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For another 1/2 hour I hiked with my plastic wrapper on.  The ridges cloaked in mystery.  It was just neat.
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I walked through the land of Bonanza.  The juniper pines doted with large rocks.  I think they filmed the 50's pioneer TV series is near by.
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I found the place where another hike told me water would be along the path to Anderson's Pass.  I'd say half a mile south of the next path.  This isn't an ideal camp setting for the land is not flat. Oh where is that hammock of mine?  I will say the spring is untouched.  I still filtered, for garda and I don't want to be friends.
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Tomorrow will be a near zero.  I'll hit Star Lake by 10 am where I'll kick back the rest of the day, possibly two nights.
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Being off the grid is fun, relaxing, and refreshing.  To be away from the hustle and bustle of daily commuter life can do wonders.  My feet carry me to the next spot along the way.  Short miles like today's 16 or yesterday's long 16, it doesn't matter, life is listening to the breeze, the screech of a hawk, or spying a deer before it sees you.
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The sky cleared, I ponder as I write day light left, do I drop the tent and sleep under the sky?  Maybe tomorrow.
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Hike on!

Day 6, Star Lake

I chose to call it quits at Star Lake. I've got 10 miles down hill to do from here so it's a good place to say 6 were enough for the day by 10:30.  I wouldn't says it's a place worth bragging about.  It is nice in a territory that looks more like the south west.
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I made my best time getting out of camp this morning not a lot to see where I camped last night.  As soon as I got on the trail, I did a quick inventory of the aches and pains.  Sure enough they were all accounted for, it would be a good hike.
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The Freel area is different than the other regions of the TRT more for the granite sand soil and the less dense trees.
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I noticed it clouding up this afternoon so I put up my tent.  I really want one night of sleeping under the stars however that darn moon is so bright. The question now is, rain again this afternoon and then clearing up or something different?
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My Goal Zero Nomad 7 solar panel is not recharging the Goal Zero battery I brought, even in full sun.  I'll use it as a writing surface this evening for my journalling.  I need something that is light, will work in partial sun, and that doesn't need to be constantly watched for charging. The ability to be hung from my pack is a must.
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I am running at 35% battery now so this may be the as entry from the trail. It's just nice to unplug for a whike.
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Hike on!

Day 4, to Showers Lake

The stars at Aloha Lake burst beyond the heavens once the moon set.  I slept half in, half out after that. Orion, the constellation rose in the east.
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I got going early and loved seeing new light dance across this big lake.  Once I cleared the lower section it was moving time however my right shoe dig into my tendon making going slow.
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At Echo Chalet I got a Mountain Topper panni sanwhich, essentially a ruben.  Downed two gatoraids, and an ice cream.
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Water was a concern as the section from Echo to Showers Lake is said to be dry.  I filled up at the bottom of some meadows and kept crossing trivial streams from then on severe mile or so.  Ha, I carried up to 2 litters the entire way.  No worry, I'd rather have more water than not
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The basin before Shower, is the Horse Shoe.  This is across between Utah's Albion Basin and Day's Fork with a ruggedness I've not seen before towards the bottom.  Absolutely breath taking in kind.
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I arrived at Showers with about 1 1/2 hours of day light left and set about camp.  I haven't seen to many PCT'rs  today.  I did see more than enough  weekenders heading up towards Desolation.
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Another great day of hiking.
PS I grabbed some cardboard at Echo and that did what I needed to but I forgot to take a known hot spot so now another limp maker.  I'll have  a roll of tape on my right foot by the time this is over.
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Over, if I can I hear Star Lake is amazing.  I may take a low mile day and enjoy the scenery.  Rain is forecasted on Saturday and I have more than ample food for the extra day.
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Hike On!
How's that for a Monday?  Oh yeah, it was a 12 hour day from start to finish.

Day 3, mind blowing scenery

Everyone was on the trail by 7.  I trailed the Scout Troop until the border of Desolation Wilderness then I lost them.  I made miles, my focus get over Dick's Pass, 12 miles away.
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Just inside the wilderness area I spied some large red granite mountains and pondered will I cross them?  As I write I have one to my Northeast.
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The trail went up and down, mostly up.  I rounded the Velma Lakes, originally one of my planned stops in the rough drafts.  Before long I rounded a few more lakes and stopped short of Dick's Lake.  Where I ate first luch of two side candy bars.
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I refilled a little water at the lake, leaving my pack at the junction.  When I returned i struck up a conversation with two day hikers.  I trailed behind them but saw them sitting at the pass.  More on that in a moment.  The trail made some long easy switchbacks 1380 feet over 2 milrs.  The Wasatch grade is 1,000 per 1 miles.  Wow, what a sight.  At the top it leveled out.  I asked the day hikers if I could join them for second lunch.  A few minutes late the guy jumped up, checked nature's fridge, and came back with 2 beers.  She wanted to split  one so he offered me the other.  If you see a beer show up in my social media feed, that's why.  We chatted a bit longer before they took off for a work function, locals.  This is their backyard and I a visitor.
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I stood I'm awe for a few more minutes then started down into another mind blow of scenery.  This is why I am crazy and love to hike, these rewards are amazing, the IPA helped a little, too.  These mountains have no pattern, just everywhere.  The Wasatch and the Uinta's have main canyons and side canyons with bowls at the top.  These look like wave blown by confused winds.
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I pushed miles and went beyond my goal of the day.  I'm thankful for this season without bugs, a little chilly but so.  I chatted with a bloke from North London, uk.  Gave hike some water tips for going into Tahoe City.  I did the ups and downs over another shallow pass to drop into the huge alpine lake I spied from on top the Pass.  Walking right into glare around Heater Lake, a beauty to see. And into Aloha.
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I looked for a sheltered spot dorm the wind, few and far between as this lake is surrounded by white granite and the red granite mountain to my northeast.
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I set camp, washed up but, not the socks.  Hips hurt from carrying  6 days of food.  I am not eating everything but, am making sure breakfast and dinner get consumed every day.  The SoBo section hiker will join later at this campsite.  He arrived just after sunset and ran up to Mosquito Pass the the north.  Clear skies and a big moon, delightful for a night hike.  This guy is getting his trails worth of extra views.
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The tea's getting cold and the phone is showing more light on me than day is. The stars are soon to show through the light of a near full moon.
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Hike on!

Day 2, Wild Flowers

I made my way up to Twin Peaks Pass.  I started up to the summit however turned back just shy of the peak as the quality of the rock didn't excite me.  The faint trail also ran dangerously close for my comfort so I stayed farther a way from it.
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I encountered the PCT treat way for the first time shortly after I got back to my pack.  My heart raced as I thought of future plans.  I'm not planning this section for 3 or 4 years , but to be on the actual PCT.  It wasn't anything different from what I've seen in this region so far.
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A mile later I saw two 20 somethings looking at the map wide open.  They weren't lost rather not hikers with rather large packs and an unconventional piece of equipment,  he had a samurai sword.  I've seen some darnist things but this?  I moved on.
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I met a PCT section hiker who's doing chunks at a time.  She gave me some info on the water beyond Richardson Lake.  Dry for 12 miles unless you like mud puddles.
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I ate luch at Barker Pass Trailhead with 2 foreigners hiking the PCT.  They won't finish with the time left.  No mater it's the adventure.  Just as they left, some Jeep guys pulled up.  I decided to stay a few more minutes.  One of the fellas went back and got a bag of spicy jerky for me.  Guess what I added to dinner?  They were up for some good country road four wheeling.
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I busted out some miles filling my water at a good flowing stream.  I pushed th 6 miles to Richardson thinking I had a set od switchbacks.  Like my AT style I stopped for a break within half a mile of the lake and there were no switchbacks.
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I immediately, at Richardson Lake, walked in to a Scout troop up for a 50 mile section of the TRT headed my way.  Also another later starter.  I found a quiet alcove between two big stumps, like 20 foot tall and 3 plus foot diameter big.  The ground looks soft and again, I've rocked my tent down.
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I set about my camp chores. Ate dinner cold with a small handful of shredded jerry which added a nice kick.  Washed myself and my rinsed my socks.  Since my socks a little most at this time, I've got them on my shoulders for a little body heat drying, chilly but comfortable just after sunset.  A clear sky will give me a little star view.  Oh yeah, I saw two clear meteors last might and some that may have been.
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Every field I went through, every once there was water in the area had wild flowers.  Pink, purple, yellow the areas I walked danced with them.
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For as many people are here it's quiet.  I'll sleep really good and will pass the Scouts sometime tomorrow.  One of their leaders said they'd be gone by 7.  Will it happen?  I'll be having my coffee then.
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Hike On!

Arrival Day

While my friends were cutting z's I got on the road.  I knew every mile extra I made on the trail would be less for tomorrow.  I caught a photo of the sunrise through a solitary tree at the Wendover rest stop.  Minutes later I entered  the Pacific time zone.
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The drive went uneventful as it should.  I found the Mount Rose Hwy south of Reno and shortly there after I was in TRT territory.  I picked up my Wilderness permit as CA requires for the Desolation Wilderness everyone register.  A little bit of construction traffic through the chaos that is Lake Tahoe and I was at my trailhead.
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I filled my water container with some bottled water I brought with, readied myself, and was off. Up, up, and away!  I headed up a draw to Page Meadows and around to Ward Creek. I shaved a few miles off tomorrow which is good as my first 2 will be up, up and ridgeline.  Then down, up, and down.
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I will embrace the up, for if there were no up, there would be no down, or at least the TRT would look a whole lot different.  With no up, where would the mountain tops be?
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I'm enjoying the gentle rolling sound of Ward Creek and the company of non-biting flying things.
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Hike On!
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PS I hope my sky view will let me see a bit of the meteors shower, the moon however is rising
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Tip: Tahoe area camping, use a hammock or a free standing tent.  I've rocked down my tent pegs.  Not even msr ground hog stakes hold.
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Tip #2: mountain house Spaghetti rehydrates with cold water
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Tips #3: check that your stove & canister work before leaving. I finally got this BRS micro stove to work for my tea.  The TOAKS to 450ml is a dream come true.

Hiker to Trail

I hung a thumb bum sign at my desk, 'hiker to trail' subheading, 'I need to finish what I started.'  The last week's been a rush with the Expo, getting my gear finalized, and double checking my menu.  Last night I fired off the itinerary to the folks.  I knew I had a few weeks off this month originally planned for some Uinta's backpacking trips.  I'll keep them in mind for September.  King's Peak still has a sign on it, saying come to my Summit.
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I haven't talked this leg up with too many folks.  I'm kinda embarrassed by not completing the TRT in one go but, I look back and realized attitudes play a huge part of finishing.  Not only finishing, attitudes are a big part of the enjoyment of the journey.  The fact that I met conditions I planned for yet had never encountered before was interesting twist as well.
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I might not meet any PCT thru-hikers in the Desolation Wilderness, this will be a bummer but I will get to see some mountains of incredible awesomeness.  I wonder just how bad the mosquitoes will be? Ryder Lake bad?  Eh so, I've pretreated my clothes and have plenty of repellent.  What of the bears?  I hope not.  Not all of my 6 1/2 days of food fit into the Ursack.  Unless told, I won't carry a bear bagging cord.  It's not the weight rather the inconvenience, last time I did not see any descent trees to hang food from.
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I sit enjoying the evening.  Half of the fun is rushing so that the last day is not a rush.  Early to rise to see the sunrise in the mirror.
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Hike on!

Reviews

This is a disclaimer piece on why I write about gear and this piece talks a lot about gear and something I got to participate in over the weekend.
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A quick question at work drew me into looking at my own work schedule,  as I logged into one of the many side programs we use, I saw I had Thursday and Friday off.  Ops, who cares, I'll use the Paid Time Off another time.  While at work, I asked a friend for her boy friend's number, since he wasn't at work that day.  A few text messages later, I had instructions on how to get into one of Salt Lake's finest and largest conventions, the Outdoor Retailer Exposition.  My friend's boy friend who is also my friend helps run Emberlit/Merkware.  I've reviewed the Fire Ant titanium firebox stove while last on the Tahoe Rim Trail several months ago.
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A kid in a candy store with a small allowance, is what I thought as I waited outside the Salt Palace near the tents set up on Abravano Hall's lawn, part of the Expo.  "Every square inch of space is used" my friend stated.  He wasn't kidding from the very entrance to a massive complex of temporary venue tents across South Temple (street).
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I saw Tom Hennessey pedaling his hammocks.  I had to let him know I finished the AT since I got my hammock from him at Trail Days in Damascus VA two summers ago.  I let him record a quick testimonial video for promo.  His hammocks are bomb proof, meaning very durable. However they are not the lightest on the market, they will hold up to and last beyond the AT thru-hike.
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We hit Sawyer Filter's booth a moment later. They've helped start an initiative to certify the claims made by the water filter industry on the water quality of their products.  One would have thought this was done a long time ago.  Sawyer is updating their back flush method to a small threaded ring that screws onto the original Sawyer filter and on to a clean squeeze bag.  These rings are available on line at Sawyer's website and on Amazon.
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Half a dozen stops and finally at the Emberlit booth, fitting for their bushcraft image, lodgepole framed table and merchandise board.  I doubt it was half the size of a small booth at any given restaurant. Even though this day was the last day of the show, people wandered by.  After a quick intro to the his business partner, we were off to check out the novelty items.  My friend is rather out going with an eye for like minded camping style outdoor gear.  Though he'd rather carry a 45lbs pack 5 miles in, and I a 15 lbs pack 20 miles in, the quality of gear must meet high standards of durability.  It's were one puts the objectives of the outings to be.  Hence when I lay out my reviews I state what my intention of to be.  For example search for my review of the Fire Ant stove.
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As we wandered through the halls and ballrooms pushing beyond capacity, I noticed a lot of water sport focus.  The paddle board industry continues to increase.  I could only imagine what Jordanel (sp) Reservoir looked like earlier this week, a second location of the show just beyond Park City.  We didn't pass through the mountain bike area, nor the rock climing/mountaineering areas.  We hit a few knife manufacturers and titanium gear places.  We did stumble upon Disk Golf.  I haven't thrown for a few years but still have a full set of disks from when I lived a block from one of the disk golf parks.  He got two sets of three disks, a starter pack, for him and his girl.  If she's reading this I hope I'm not spoiling a surprise.
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I enjoyed the wander.  I can say it's nice to play with the gear I can see on line.  I didn't see any, or recognize any, yet to be released gear. I was under the impression this Expo was no photography allowed.  There were a few items I pondered on 'how does that work' that I got to see how that works.  I didn't see Zpacks or ULA-equipment, two cottage manufacturers of light weight gear for long distance hikers.  I did get to play with a few pieces from TOAKS Titanium.  I'll do a review of the 450ml pot in a few weeks.  I did get to see CRKT'S knife dispay.  They make a tiny spork that is available nationwide in outdoor displays.  What caught my attention is a lightweight folding knife that is spring less, 1 1/2 inch blade, at an ounce.  It seemed like for every ultra-light knife I picked up, my friend picked up a medium sized hunting knife.  A style I'll carry for when this ultra-light phase phases out.
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Honestly there is a lot of gear on the market that is not at this show for the expanse of the market.  The little guys who are at this show have something that can be upscaled to meet the needs of the larger markets.  Head to your local out fitters and look for Emberlit's fire box stoves, you'll find them.  Look for other little guys who are making head way into the larger markets,  you'll find them.  Sometimes it starts as a hobby that catches, sometimes it's an idea that is developing over and over a rough road.
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As the show closed, I helped the fellas at Emberlit pack down.  We hit sushi afterwards where I got to know a friend of theirs from Rocky Mountain Bushcraft.  He told me of the rough road of making his name known when the big dogs slight handed him over and over.  Cover Yourself and protect what you know, we're two pieces of wisdom he imparted.  Rocky Mountain Bushcraft released a set of Wilderness Guides covering Medicinal Plants of the Rockies and another on Edible Plants of the Rockies that are worth taking with as they're on study waterproof paper.
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My intention is to hike and write about hiking.  When I write about a piece of gear, it's because I'm using it now or am using something similar.  I've paid full cost or have a 'work for trade' agreement.  In the photography forums on can easily find threads talking about 'turn and burns' which is photography given without editing.  One can find threads talking of people just starting out giving away photos for publicity, aka work for trade.  I fought hard to get feedback on images I presented.  I busted hard to make sure my name was on work I did for publicity.  I fought and fought for expectations of what people wanted and for what I wanted as a result of doing.   I lost on all fronts to the point I pulled the batteries out of all camera bodies and flashes.  I shelved my passion at the time with a big exclamation of disappointment and a sinless finger salute.  I covered myself and made known the expections, still got burned in ugly ways. The first thing I do if I obtain a piece for review is establish expections.  What do you expect from me.  I'm not only protection the provider, I'm laying out my expections.  If it's a product sample, I'll try it and write a little on it.  If it's gear, I'll put it through my paces including some new be mis-use of it.  I give my raw feedback.  I don't have an editor.  I'm not staffed or paid.  This a hobby.  I write and I hike for they are fun.  I'll say too, I wouldn't mind recouping my costs.
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Now back to the story.
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As we unloaded the van at the office I noticed a shelf of prototypes, dozens would be an exaggeration of the few.  Emberlit tests and tests setting out their expectations for what they want to achieve then modifing the piece to achieve the expectation. Their work on the market is 99% perfect.  On the end sits an unreleased model.  My friend stated earlier that some of these are being used in under-developed lands with great efficiency, an unintended positive humanitarian result, inadvertently fighting human trafficking.  The users are gathering less wood and other burn able material thus limiting their time away from the safety of the village.
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I've got some other things to tackle in the next few days.  I do want to give on last shout out to Emberlit, thanks for the opportunity to hang out over the weekend.
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If one is looking for a gram weanie stove where fires are not banned, check out the Emberlit Ti Fireant.  I tossed it into my 750ml last night and it does fit without my lid on it.  Don't forget the spoon half of the sprongs for eating utensil.
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Hike On!

Smith and Morehouse Loop

Gently flowing water through the trees of the Smith and Morehouse creek lulls me into a peaceful state of mind. I over look a small meadow shadowed by rounded cliff canyon walls full of aspen and fir trees.  The mosquitoes are surprisingly few and I'm able to enjoy my supper and tea without their company.
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In my rush from work to trail, I picked up my pack. Upon arrival at the trailhead something key for future enjoyment is missing.  Your supposed to put the camera in the ruck not next to it.  Therefore what photos I do take this weekend will be few and with the cell phone.
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This past week was my birthday.  Even though I know she's gone, I still anticipate a cheesy card from my big sister.  Many wished me well via social media.  Next year I think I'll say ahead of time, open up the cheesiest sayings you can. For those who said a little extra, thanks.
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My weekend may be a short hike.  When I say this, I mean under 30.  By the time I hit the top part of this loop I'll break 100 miles of backpacking for the summer not counting the TRT hike (s).  Yes, hikes,  I'm heading back shortly to finish the second half which may be a driver in obtaining this 100 mile goal for the year.  Now with this I am behind on the 300 mile hiking goal I've held for 10 years.  We all have 'our crazy,' this is mine.  Why? I can't describe adequately what I see and here surrounding me.  Even if I could, part of the beauty is the effort it takes to get out and do it.  Much like the gym regulars who bench press 350 for warm ups  (exaggeration) 10 miles a day was rough for me at first backpacking.  It takes time to work up to the miles.
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Time to shift focus.
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Night came and went with a bright Moon overhead.  An early morning runner trotted past around 6, I thought he was a deer.  I took my time getting up.  The sun did not grace this canyon until later, by then I turned left at the first junction and headed towards the pass.
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I met a scattering of Scouts who'd gone up and over to Island Lake the day before.  The trail  is a trace of carins and some treadway.  There would be not 'i' blaze anywhere on my loop today.
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The pass resumed normal trail as I dove into the ever popular Island Lake region.  A group gathered for some cliff jumping.  I continued to Long Lake and around to Duck Lake.  Near Duck Lake, I chat with a Grand Dad out with the youngsters showing them how to backpack.  We start swapping Uinta's stories before he realises he needs to catch up to his group.  With 20lb on his back I'm sure he caught them quickly.
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Once this spur loop completed itself, it was back up to the pass.  The map showed trail.  The junction sign read Big Elk route.  Route it was. Up and over following some carins. The Trail had a natural predictability to it through meadows and rocky areas.  I stopped for a while over looking Fire Lake and the basins below.  I saw one other couple up this direction.
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At Big Elk, I followed a spur to the trailhead.  This is not a road for cars, 4 wheel, high clearance vehicles only.  Back up I went.  The final 1/4 mile a toss up between the Whites and Mt Olympus.
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The map again showed trail up to the pass.  What I experienced is bush waking following gps directions.  Even without the gps I would have gone up and then looked for the trail either by orienteering or looking for the carins. The route not very nice until I cleared the trees.  Once clear of the trees, the carins resumed predictably.  Up and over I went to Erickson Basin. From the pass i coukd see my my destination below.  Topping out was at 6pm.
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Hunger and sore wandering feet made the call as I arrived at South Erickson Lake.  Looking at the map, I'm an easy 1/2 day hike out or 6 ish miles.  I searched for a camp with a side view and no dead fall tree, then set camp.
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Tonight Spaghetti and mint tea.  Mountain House meals may as well be called Mountain Gas meals.  What am I doing wrong in preparing them?  Add boiling water and let soak.  No big deal breaker on the extra scent.
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It's very quiet as I watch the rocky slope reflect changing light upon reflection of the lake before me.  Quiet even on the mosquito side of things.  Every where I went today the wild flowers were blooming.  Even here I see carpets of wild flowers. No fish are jumping so if you are reading this thinking about wetting a line, visit to see yet don't expect a bite.
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Looking though a few cell phone images, I clear will say I capture the essence but not the full beauty.  Tomorrow should be an easy hike out.
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And as I reach for my headlamp, I find my battery.  That's okay, the cellphone camera cannot capture the depth of beauty up here.  As I head to the lake one more time, the fish are rising, not junping, all over.  It's lovely to sit without a jacket thinking about all the variety of trail conditions here.
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One thing that strikes me is few people will go the extra mile.  They so miss out.  If your pack is so heavy you don't want to explore after you set camp, it's too heavy.  Ditch the axe, the camp stool, the bottle of xxx, etc. The Uinta's want to reward the extra miler.
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With few mosquitoes, I kept the tent  screen wide open.  At some point in the night I decided to half lay in the tent and half lay out of it to view the stars.  A good choice I made.  I half slept while trying to recognize the constellations.  I thought about Google Sky however, I'm without service in the mountains and doubt it would do any good.  As high and clear as it was haze from fires obscured the blackness of night, the Milkyway barely shone through.
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I took an easy time getting ready which means packed and ready to go within 1/2 hour of waking up.  I made a hot coffee and sat by the waters edge.  The lake mirrors the shore with such precision may be one could use it as a mirror to shave with.
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At the first trail junction, I chose to take a detour to East Shingle Lake.  A quick mile of down, up, down, and down.  I entered into a small Lake with fish actively pursuing bugs on the water.  I sat for a while then returned to the junction.
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At North Erickson Lake, I sat again.  Fish jumping at this lake too.  I took in the surrounding sparse trees and rock that makes up the Erickson Basin.  There's hardly a place in the Uinta's that could be called like another place.  Even though the two Erickson Lakes are but 1/2 mile apart they seem very different.
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I made quick time down some 5 miles of trail thinking, strawberry milkshake.  A few breaks later I did arrive at the car.  McD's or the local burger drive in in Kamas?  I chose Kamas.
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The place in Kamas was packed, one could not tell how bad it smells over the waving smells of burgers and fries.  Lots of people coming down from the Uinta's filled the joint.  It took a while for the shake and a bit longer for the burger.  No worries, no one was in a hurry and the staff moved quickly.  It was the best burger I've had in a while.
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It's hard to say how far I went only that I went over 25. Several of the places I visited proves that one can find solitude on a busy holiday weekend.
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I've got something pre-scheduled for next weekend.  If I go out, I'll hit a local day hike.  What's a day hike?
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Hike On!

Brown Duck Mountain Loop

I've camped at Atwine and Kidney lakes several times yet, never have tied the two together in the form of a loop.  While it is slow at work, I look at several trails I can do as over nighters then I cyber hike the using Google maps, a little bit of research goes a long ways.  This is one of those hikes I planned.  Initially I wanted to do it in August but the itch got to me this weekend.  I sent off the itinerary to the folks via email.
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Last weekend hike kinda put a rush on the hike a little with driving to the trail in the morning.  This weekend I took off straight from work for Moon Lake, the trailhead.  I put two or three miles in before sunset and found a spot in the lodgepole pines just flat enough for me.  Under the watchful eye of a momma moose, I ate two candy bars.  Between thoughts of standing dead trees falling and mom deciding I was to close, I actually slept really well.
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I got on the trail at 7 am.  Made Brown Duck Lake my breakfast spot a few hours later.  I shuffled past Kidney Lake and spotted my old campsites.  Got 3/4rds the way up Tworoose Pass before I realized I didn't see the lake.  Then I remembered that Lake is off the trail. The pass is well wooded and no views.  When you look at a Flickr set of mine there is one for Brown Duck Region, those images are up a spur trail from Tworoose Pass.
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Down into Squaw Basin I went and into unfamiliar territory. I got happy feet for exploring new territory. Excitement over rode the nerves I expected.   The trail from  here to Clements Lake would be lightly used.  I found a spur that is on the National Geo map but not on any others.  It saved me close to 500 foot loss/gain in elevation. This short cut lead through some amazing meadows and views of rock cliffs above.  I am amazed at how much water was along this route.
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Clements Pass is awesome high alpine meadows that goes on and on.  At the top is a huge pond! After a detour to look out into another basin, I came back to the trail sign and ate lunch.  I wanted a hot luch since I didn't get much chow the night before, with the wind, I hunkered down and ate some dry fruit, a power bar, and drank some powdered drink mix.
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Dropping into East Basin is nothing spectacular, may be the fishing is good.  My goal, get over that pass.  This became  a mind game as I got closer the pass seemed to get farther away.  If you look for East Pass on Google Maps, it wrong, it's closer to the east end than through  the boulder field.  I hit the trail with awe, honestly, I didn't have to go up that stinking boulder field.  The switchbacks head into some trees about half way up and doesn't come out.  The rough part literally is 1/4 of a mile, the rest is forest.  The top was heavily forested, too with no views. The views came with the initial climb.
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Not so far a long from the pass, I meet two guys on horse back.  They asked what was farther down.  'A pass,' I replied.  They turned around for a meadow not so far back.  I continued on.  At Clement's Lake I took another break to consider my options.  I was there within an easy day hike to the car, I could go to Brown Duck Lake and be out early in the day, or draw something in between.
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I went with in between.  There aren't very many campsites at Atwine Lake.  I considered the dead fall in my selection.  I haven't camped within shoe throwing distance of a campfire ring since the AT.  I am tonight.  I haven't seen any rodent signs, big or small.  I set camp, fixed my super, swatted a few mosquitoes.  The mosquitoes are present but, not bothering.
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As evening sets in, the fish started to jump.  I haven't identified what they are going after.  Several years back, I held up here on night as the previous night at a higher elevation was a bit nippy, I listened to the fish jump.  When I got home I got a lightweight fishing kit.  In Boy Scouts I broke a fishing rod tip in the trees on the trail so no more rods that extend higher than the pack.  I don't have that lightweight kit with me now.  If I did, this blog wouldn't be in writing phase now.  I did catch the colors of the sky...
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I'm sitting at Brown Duck Lake thinking.  Yesterday at this time, I sat here too.  I look to my right and see a mountain with snow just under the ridgeline. I can honestly say, I hiked around that mountain.  Sure it's not that big of deal for one who can do 30 plus miles.  It's a bit bigger for me as a planned 30 miles in a 2 day weekend was a barrier, both physically and mentally.
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Physically included the shape I'm in and what I carry.  I've worked up to the 30 miles by doing a few 20's and extra.  I've worked up the gear by looking at what I really need to be comfortable  while not carrying excess.  An example of excess is 2 pairs of hiking  socks or a towel when my bandana will do.  My luxury item this weekend is my sit pad which doubles as my back sheet for the pack I'm using.  I could use a different on that doubles as a sleeping pad.  Last night I rolled over, grabbed my pad and heard a hissing sound.  I thought, great now I have a hole in my pad.  Actually, I'd grabbed the valve.  I slept the rest of the night on a less than ideally inflated pad.  The other pad I'm referring to isn't as comfy but, has no worries to deflation.
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Mentally, on the long multi-day, week long plus, doing 30 miles every 2 days is expected.  Okay, 45 to 60 per 5 days plus is normal.  There one isn't worried about drive time to and from the trailheads.  It's less about getting from point A to B and more of getting through the mundane.  Yesterday, I walked a lot of same type forested miles crossing similar meadows for a few enchanting views.
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It's 9 am, I've got 2 1/2 hours down and 3 hour drive ahead.  The fish are still jumping.  I woke up to jumping fish at 6:30 pared with great morning colors.  I treated myself to a hot coffee while getting ready to move out.
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The rest of the day holds getting home, cleaning gear, thinking about the week ahead, and possibly start looking at next weekend.  If I ruck next weekend I'll hit 100 miles backpacking for the summer which I set as a goal for this year excluding any thru-hike attempts.
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Hike on!
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Footnote
Forest hiking often involves looking out for rock and root alike. Dodging the occasional pile of fly attractor or moving around streams.  Forest trails are mark with a 'i' notched into the trees.  On a seldom use trail the tread way might be over grown.  Often remains of a trail can be followed by looking for trimmed low branches or fallen trees cut to allow for passage.
Meadow hiking may clip a corner of a meadow or go right through it.  The later of the two is fun as sometimes a trail will not be there.  One may see a pile of rocks, a carin, somewhere in the middle or far side, sometimes not.  On the larger, one may need to guess where the trail re-enters the forest by looking for the 'i'.  The meadows may include: marshy areas, streams, or nice comfortable grass to walk on.  In the right time of year an abundance of wild flowers are present.  In the early dawn and late evening wildlife like deer or moose may be present along the edges.

Ryder Lake in Mosquitovile

Watching the weather all week for the weekend made me long for the mountains.  Last weekend I did the Brighton-Alta loop adding a few of my favorite detours.  This time I wanted more.  A random note, in a random note book, caught my attention, Ryder Lake.  I grabbed my Hiking the High Uinta's book.  I'd hiked Christmas Meadows before, noting not to do all three basins at one shot on a 3 day weekend.  Ok, easy, I won't.  I'll do all three as an overnighter.  Na, I wont.  The last basin takes a bit more time.  I also recall, the pack I had then, it tips the scale at 45lbs.  Good memories, I recorded I the trail guide.  It was 9:30 before I finalised my plan and emailed the folks.
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This morning the alarm clock sounded before my weekday time.  Made a coffee and was shortly on the road.  I couldn't remember how to tie the Mirror Lake Highway I to Evanston WY so I went up and over via Mirror Lake.  I want to say uneventful but, a mountain goat and a few deer added to the sightseeing.
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I made it to the trailhead by 7:30 and got underway by 7:45.  I encountered my share number of Boy Scouts.  Multiple groups and different packing styles.  A troop that's got it together with few things hanging off the pack has a leader who is experienced.  The poor kids the look more like the Beverly Hillbillies truck, I feels sorry for as I wonder how many times they've stopped to retie gear back on.  If you're a Scout leader in the greater Salt Lake region and want someone to come do a shake down for your group message me.  I'd like to come help make the young men's (and ladies') over nighters a bit more enjoyable.
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I did a few gear swaps for this weekend.  I'm using an older Gossamer Gear Mariposa pack since my weight is under 20 lbs with food and water.  This is a wet trail so I only need to carry a little. I'm using Evernew Ti's Appalachian Cook set which is a litter 450ml pot with collapsible alcohol/twig stove.  I've used it a few times when I was playing with gear before my AT Journey. For my spoon I grabbed something out of the drawer. This pack loads differently.  The shelter gets stuffed in a big side pocket.  The other side has 2 pockets.  The top one I use for the cook kit, the lower for water.  I stuff my quilt in first for the main compartment and set the food bag on top.  Everything else ets shoved in and around the food bag. Only a few items go in the big back stretchy pocket, like the map and bug spray.  The only thing swinging besides my legs is my water hose with the filter on the end.
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I detoured to Kermashu Lake.  2 miles off my main route. This trail has seen better days, not abused, more like forgotten. It has some ups, some wet meadows, and a lot of downed trees.  I chose not to find my old campsite.  I took a few photos and moved on.

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I got to my destination around 3:45.  Found an initial spot then realized someone had spilt oats near by and something else by a fire pit that attracts huge number of flies.  I moved a quarter of a mile a way. I don't have the best view but I will have a night sky view and a little of the lake.  A quick walk around the lake and I noticed a large number of campfire pits.  I thought this lake had a permanent fire ban within 1/4 of a mile.  Also a group is camped right on the trail between the lake and a waterfall.  You don't want to know what kind of flower I found shorty there after.  There is a lot of dead standing trees.  Campsite selection is crucial for everyone up here. So far just me and them.  Since it's still early, I'll say a few more show up by night fall.
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You know how I hate wind, I'm liking the wind for now as it's keeping the local residents away from me. I doubt it will let up.  Wet weather is due to hit tomorrow afternoon. For now it's a bit warm up here.  I wonder what the night will bring.
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The fellas across the lake made little noise last night.  Within my shelter I put my head near the doorway with the flaps pulled back.  I enjoyed watching the Big Dipper rotate around the North Star. Sleeping loosely covered the temp didn't bother me til the morning chill. I watched the sun hit the tops of the mountains and bemoaned getting up due to the presence of mosquitoes.  I made motion when the ball of furry hit my tent.
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I didn't aim for 20 minutes to gone less coffee and privy.  I did make good time and the lack of mosquitoes was nice.  Once ready for the day I pulled out breakfast of oatmeal and a coffee oacket.  I found an 8 ounce sized nalgene recently and went for a cold one.  Alcohol stoves take to long to heat water just for a drink.
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I followed a likely route up to McPherson Lake.  I crossed several, err, many seasonal ponds.  Stared eye to eye with a few monster bucks in velvet. Oh, what beauties they are even at 100 yards.
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It's around 9:20 at McPherson's where I'm enjoying second breakfast after exploring the lower portion of upper Middle Basin.  The last trip here I explored the upper part and see no reason to tromp up there.  Here's to another cup of chug (cold instant coffee) and the sound of seasonal waterfalls with a nice breeze.
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I followed the water down after looking into the upper basin.  There were a few natural waterfalls which made good photos. I took time watching my step so I did not have to down climb, only step down.
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I didn't take many photos after I hit Ryder Lake as it's mostly forest trail and some meadows.
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When I got back to the trailhead, I checked the signage.  Sure enough the whole basin has a permanent fire ban.  Most of the High Uinta's have fire restrictions.  Please folks the Forest Service cannot baby sit the users of the backcountry, it is up to us to manage ourselves accordingly.  Please practice good Leave No Trace methods.  I know a campfire is nice and is a good social experience for the backcountry but it leaves a scar on the land that many do not try to hide.  With the number of 'established' fire rings it sure felt crowded up there.  Please take only photos, make only memories, and leave only well buried privy stuff.  I'd rather not know someone was there until I read a trip report or saw a photo.  In order for the wilderness to be around for the next generation, this generation must take responsibility for managing and preserving it.  End rant.
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The drive home went uneventful.  A knock on the door was a pleasant surprise by the little ones.  Their Mom offered me a plate of baked chicken for supper. I love my neighbors.  Thank you, it hit the spot for this hungry hiker.
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Besides a little hiker hobble and a twang of sunburn on my arms, this was a good hike.
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Hike On!

On the Drive

One would not expect to wake up with your manager's voice in your head genuinely asking what did you learn while on vacation.  I did and I know it wasn't him rather my mind playing out on me.  What did I learn?
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First, some times last season's tools are need for a while into the next.  My example here would be, knowing I was in a hip season between spring and summer, I should carry my traction aids, microspikes. Even around life, the tools I learn to use effectively last season, are need now.
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Next, don't get off the plan.  I set out with a detailed plan that was working for people going the opposite way when we talked about places and water sources.  I got off track listening to them talk about snow levels and didn't steer myself back.
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Third, don't let others get into your head and let their opinions about the hardships  get you off track.  Rather, ask them a few more questions directed back to the track wanting to take. Remember the plan. Who knows you may steer them back on track too.
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Finally, this is the hard one to swallow, self talk is empowering or disempowering.  I might have doomed myself from the beginning by looking towards the suck when I need to focus on the views, on the elation that comes from topping out on a hard climb, and the lessons of resource management in terms of water locations.  All of those I just threw into a lump of suck.
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All who know me and know me in passing, hiking is a passion.  How many know that after 10 years of avidly pursuing, it's become a slight burden.  The views no longer carry the awe, or the effort, the rewards.  This is besides the point.  It's good for me to share the photos so that I can hear from fresh eyes what I see.  That helps recharge me.  It helps me recharge knowing some are asking for what hikes I recommend in my home area.
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Hiking is also an allegory for life, work, etc.  If you reread the first 4 points one may see how my experience may tie into what is experienced by the reader.  One thing I love about adventure literature is the over coming of obstacles. One may not draw business connections between the early Antarctic or Mt Everest expeditions yet, can see that those who over come have a leader, even self-leadership, that focuses on a positive out come and will work within the limits of what they have to over come that which was not prepared for.
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Did I fail in the thru-hike? No, because I plan on coming back to it.  I need an attitude adjustment.  Am I learning the on going lessons of life? Yeah.  They who stop learning are those that proceed to fail. I keep looking for that which I missed the first time around.
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I hope this helps someone.
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I continued to drive home without incident.  That is, until I hit Salt Lake.  Folks, please give each other room to stop!  I witnessed a 5 car pile up one lane over and 3 car lengths ahead of me. I had to go through the debre field.  Give space so that one distraction does not cause a cluster of other issues.
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Well enough, at home, I'm cleaning, inspecting, and putting a way gear.  Yes, it takes time even to put 15 lbs of stuff a way.  This is the closing of my TRT journey, for now.  I'll let folks know when I head out again.  Thanks for the comments on social media and via this site.
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Have a great holiday weekend and drive wisely.
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Hike On!

Vacation Day

Another long distance hiker camped next to me at Mt Rose, I asked him what could I have missed. He loaded up on water for the dry stretch ahead.  His reply didn't come in the form of stuff but, in the mental game. Find the motivation with in, the next view, or a favorite jam on the tunes.
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I drove around to Echo Lake where I sit now.  Thinking, I could be done with this beautiful area.  I found a trail marker with both the PCT and TRT symbols.  The mental game.  How did it hit me?  Icy, fatiguing snow on day 2 coupled with three days of dry stretches, and the chaffing. The up hills wore me down too.  I loaded my phone with music but, one item I forgot, ear buds.  I think I'll throw a set into my food bag (I have plenty at home and none with me) so I won't forget them again.  I knew about the suck.  I even talked about the suck.  I didn't realize how the suck would actually come.  How can one be fully mentally prepared?
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I think back on my AT experience.  I can see how or why people drop out.  Their mental game wasn't there.  How then does one prepare for the mental game?  How was I ready for it then? I'll look for an answer another day.
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I'm chillin Lake side for now.  No day hike gear with me.  At this point, if I had it, I may go too big for the day.  I see snow only way up there, the passes I fretted about now may be clear, than again maybe not.
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I pass on.  I play the tourist thing for a while.  Stopping at Emerald Bay View.  The road from there north is packed with cars in No Parking zones for an easy mile. I look at the beauty from the road at 35 mph.
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Just inside the next town area, I see a backpacker, poles strapped to the rucksack with his thumb out.  Viewing the gear from a distance I can tell the difference between homeless and hiker.  I pull over. Through idle chit chat he tells me two days ago he got lost going over Dick's Pass.  He stated he knew the area and kept going when he should have turned around.  The snow still covered the upper reaches of the region. I dropped him off at the transit center in Tahoe City.
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My doubts of bailing still play on me.  The route I would have taken would put me on a treeless path up and over then sideways down a mountain.  I can read a map and the terrain. I can put them together. I'm not sure how well over a long distance of what's required for Dick's  Pass. With the trail being under the snow still, though it's been done by couples and with folks with GPS units, solo and without technology, I'm still glad I didn't carry on.
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I turned up Brockway Summit and found some random narrow paved road.  At the top is an old fire lookout on Martis Peak. Inside some drew the ridges coresponding to the matching view.  Truckee airport to my south west, Twin Peaks to the south, Mt Rose not visible. Freel Peak to the east, snow covered.  1/2 mile below is where the TRT tags this road and then turns.
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This hike is 4, 3 day weekend hikes strung together. Looking at my drive I can see points of better resupply and another layer or two of research into long distance hiking the need to find bus routes or Uber fares, the quality of grocery stores, etc. What surprises me is how different one area is from the next there is little uniformity. Would carrying 5 days supply be better than 3 and 2 respectively? Hum, how do each of the communities help hikers or other visitors? How did they set themselves up originally and how did they change when the times required them to? That's not a question for me to explore yet, gives inside to how different these communities are.
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This campground is one of the few not overflowing.  It's a gem 20 minutes away from the lake. The view for the walk in sites are worth while. As I write, now closer to dark, my area is filling up.  I'll have the hum of traffic to lul me to sleep. It will be strange to put on cotton in the morning for the drive home.  Clean clothes after a week of wearing the same.  Did I tell you about my socks wanting to hike out on their own?
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I haven't spent much time on the Internet.  I see a thick layer of haze over Elko.  Are there fires burning in California?  When I get home I'll catch up on the news, for now I'll enjoy another cloudless sky with a bit of breeze.
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Hike On!
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Day 6, a debate

The family I thought were staying, didn't. It occurred to me about half an hour later that since Mom & Dad had hike the PCT and they ate dinner around 4 pm, they were busting out a few more miles for the day.  This got me thinking, what am I not doing? I've counted my gear weight, weighed my food, and planned.  I'm in good but not great shape yet by the end of my day, I'm spent. I've culled my gear list again. A few things crept into the pack at the last moment.  Am I missing something fitness or nutritional?  Is it not anything of the above but something in my head?  Hum, points to ponder as I set out today.
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What one may call lovely weather in the 70's and 80's, I call a bit warm on the mountain.  I've got to remember this the Tahoe Rim Trail.  Rim being the key word.  I've got to hike up to the ridges and down into the passes.
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Drink mix, that's what I want to add to my food bag.  Plain water isn't so tasty now after coming from a creek, through a variety of plastics, and into a dry mouth.
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I've stopped momentarily at Twin Lakes.  Dry, bone dry. It's a field of grass with some granite boulders in the middle.  Glad I topped off at Marlette's pump last night.  I put a couple of tea bags in one for variety later today.
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The debate still rages in my head about finishing now but, my heart isn't in it any more.  The snow on my second day, on going dry spots, and one or two the things are weighing in on the finish another time.  Would I say I failed? By any means, No.  I've made some adjustments along the way.  I've realized there's  a few more skills to learn, and somethings to work on at home that will make the next hike, even a weekender, better.
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I've noticed when I blog first my journal is dry.  When I journal first my blog is dry.  When I mix blogging into my day both are well accented.
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I'm at Mt Rose Campground.  I just cracked open my second jug of gatoraid, lemon-lime.  Yesterday, I'd bought a small one for $5 iced or steaming hot and enjoyed it just the same.  I've got most my gear spread out, inspecting it, and letting it air out. I keep thing what would I drop away? Sorry, the Emberlit does not meet my need.  My tiny handheld radio is gone too.  An extra spork, how'd that get in here?  My red down puffy is on th balance.  Yes, it's more than required for this week but, last week it was the right choice.  I brought a bit of light reading if, you can Francis Schaeffer light.  Clothing wise, one cannot beat DarnTough foot wear, err socks.  Worn 6 hiking days strain and this morning they wanted to hike on their own.  Not a blister on foot or crusty spot on them.  I'm not sponsored by them, I Wil buy them over another brand for how they treat my feet. My Olympus camera didn't like my Goal Zero battery.  I barely got here on one charge.  Not bad but not as many photos either.
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Gear, err, food.  I'm eating bonelss chicken wings for dinner.  Looking I to the future, less candy bar like food and more homemade stuff packed with more nutrition.  Also make some that just needs water added, hot only if one wants a hot meal.
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Couple of cool things happened enroute today.  I meet up with the couple from Painted Rocks.  They'd come through the Mt Rose Wilderness following in the foot steps of someone who knew the trail. Mt Rose Wilderness still had significant snow.  Also caught up with the two ladies I meet south of Watson Lake. They skipped Mt Rose.
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The debate is do I stay one more night and enjoy the area with a drive around the lake though 4th of July business is crowding the population areas or do I bail out tomorrow.  Finally, do I call in for work next week or just take the full time?
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I have some time to pick up one of the sections I've missed however, I'm raw from chaffing and really don't want to hike up another hill.  Who wants to hike Mt Timp?  I'm in shape for it and I'll do it with a day sack not the Cadillac.
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This gatoraid taste good, second only to Marlette Campground well water.
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Hike On!

Day 5, I'm thirsty

I awoke to something crashing around.  I let it be for a while.  I finally gave in, looking outside I see a big ol buck between me and my food bag.  Since I was up I got up.
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Packed some and the got out to the rocks for billion dollar sunrise.  Fire from the horizon lit my sky and climbed.
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Knowing I had miles, I got on the way.  Down was nice.  At Spooner Summit I must have missed a water pump some where for down to the lake I went. Gross! I've seen some nasty water but this I'll leave it at this goose poop refill.  I spiked my water with AquaMira and got on the way.  I do use the original  Sawyer filter as my inline filtration.  Dip and go, filter with each sip.  Now, I want to add a carbon flavor filter, read on.
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Tung sticking to my mouth dehydrated, I avoided drinking this water load I scooped.  Eventually, during on of my breaks I broke out the Gator aid power chews and chewed while sucking on the water.  At that same location is a patch of snow. I made snow angles and laid back til my back got numb.
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I got on with it again.  More of the same but this time down hill for 4 miles.
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Got to Merlette Campground.  Found a spot, and went looking for the pump.  It was hard to move.  I went looking for another water source.  By the time I returned a couple of ladies had used limp balm to grease it.  Water never tasted so good, cold, or refreshing. An official sign stated good to drink from the pump.
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After they left, I cleaned up a little. And drank more.
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I fired up the Emberlit stove for tea.  Feeding the fire takes too long to boil water.  If you want my honest opinion, message me.  What I see for my needs may not be your's.  If I express my opinion here it will not take into account of what your needs are.  Also if you get a Chinese knock off of the SnoPeak pocket rocket, get 3.  Try them and throw the 2 bad ones away.  Guess why I didn't do when I got mine?
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So I've been sitting around kicking back for a time.  Chasing the sun with the solar panel and a jug of tea for tomorrow's hike out.  I'm still debating if I go all out or fall short a mile or two and finish.
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Even though today I've been thirsty, I've also wrestled with chaffing.  Looking at the ridgelines around I can see my second day area is nearly clear and the same goes for the rest.  I am good on time however just cause I can see clearing ridgelines does not mean they are. Chaffing over clearing snow is more for the factor.  If you've never wrestled with this, you are lucky.
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Looks like to night will be good around here.  A small family is on the far side, a brother and sister are out before he goes to am Africa with the Peace Corps, and the rodents want our food. Speaking of food Knorr Sides of Stoganoff is on the menu.
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Hike On!

Day 4, A New Adventure

I awoke to predawn colors of the Tahoe Basin.  City traffic reached my ears.  I got up, packed, and headed down in search of breakfast.  At the nearest grocery store I stopped to wash my face, grab a snack, and asked for the best breakfast joint.  I was pointed towards the center of town.  In retro spect I could have grabbed something there.
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I found a coffee shop.  Asked the batista what's good for breakfast.  He gave a lame, 'I don't know' response. I got a big cup of drip and a breakfast burrito.   The burrito Filling and the coffee, meh.
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I grabbed the next bus towards Incline Village only to chat with the driver I was going the wrong way.  He put me on a counter clockwise bus.  Next thing I knew I was waiting at the end of the line for an hour for the Trolley.  And connecting to another transit center to get up to Kingsbury where I plan to resume my journey.
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This entry is choppy as I'm doing it in pieces.
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After 4 buses, I got to sbury Grade and my resupply is not here.  Thank you US Post Office for saying 'y3s, it's delivered' and the fellas at the Market said, 'who?'
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I grabbed a couple of tacos, local style, from the Smoke House.  Drop my belly off here.  If I was to stay, the brisket would be plated.
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Time to hike again, 2:30...
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I'm rounding out today's adventure dry camping on the north side of South Camp Peak.  Before I left one of the transit centers I topped off on water in a 1 liter gator aid bottle and the other two containers.  Essentially I've got 3 1/2 ltrs with me between Kingsbury Grade and Sponer Summit trailhead.
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The spot I have, how can I brag?  I have a top floor hotel room with a billion dollar view.  How I'm posting vis email will not let me post photos.
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On my way here, I met 2 folks of the AT class of 15.  And another couple.  Both separated by a few miles.  I relayed what I learned yesterday.  They shrugged it off.  From my view here, I can see Freeland Pass and it is anything but impassable without microspikes.
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Even with this awesome view, I chose to eat a cliff bar and a single of spam.  I know, I should be an ace in the back country culinary arts by now.  I am enjoying a breeze which is Colin off the peppermint tea.  My tent is out of the wind zone tonight.
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In the mornin' I am so looking forward to this sunrise but I'm facing the wrong way.  You put the heel of the shelter into the wind when possible. I've got a stunning still.
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I'll head towards Merlette Lake 12 ish miles away and debate if I finish there or try to hike another 6 to get out of the State Park and camp.  This particular place makes one stay at designated camp grounds.
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What a day.
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Hike On!

Day 3

Day three is when the suck sets in.  Everything is sore from the soles of my feet to my attitude.  Granted at the first of the morning I was a mere 27 miles or so into it.
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I came up to Watson Lake by 10:30.  I thought about calling it a nero.  After looking at the campsites, I chose not to and decided to head for a creek down a fire road near Painted Rock. That would give me, oh, 12 miles for the day.
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Just south of the awesome view photo I posted on social media, I met some clockwise thru-hikers.  They gave me the data on the next two sections of trail.  Dicks Pass which is between Tahoe City and the PCT is impassable without microspikes.  I'll need to pick up that section.  At Painted Rock another set of clockwise thru-hikers said Freeland Pass was impassable.  These two had met some PCT class hikers, meaning they had hiked the PCT previously.  Okay, more detours to plan.
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I did say Day 3 sucks.  Well to add to the trail conditions, I missed the road with the water.  I met 3 weekend hikers who said they'd just come up Twin Craigs.  So short on water I asked the next set if there was water ahead.  One described a spring next two two fire roads.  I thought surely the weekenders had misplaced themselves.
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I took photos along the way, found the water, and looked at the map.  I'm a mere 1/2 mile from town.  The plan now is constantly evolving.  At first it was to head to Kingsbury Grade, pick up my Vox and hike North.  I still have two days of food in my pack.  I haven't eaten much in the last three days.  Literally, the bag I had at my desk on Wednesday and a couple of Mountain House dinners.
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Now I sit to dine on a Mountain House breakfast and sip tea.
Later, I'll look at the days I plotted for KG to Mt Rose.  Can I SoBo on what I have or do I suppliment and return for my box before I leave.  I'll need to pick up the southern half at a later time.
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Yeah Day three sucks but I'd rather have it suck than everything to be ideal.
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Hike On!

Snow Up High and Miles Below

I'd did say I hate wind, yesterday, right?  Well the wind and I slept together.  The for cast said it was to die down. It didn't until morning.  The stakes held.
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I called it early.  I woke to a sky full of stars.  The next time I rolled over the moon was out.  I flopped to sleep on my otherside.
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Morning came.  I packed what I could what I could before having to actually get vertical. Once outside I made quick work if getting ready.  What I didn't do was hydrate nor eat much.  This would bite me later.
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The slope I fretted about the night before went to nought as the trail cut a different set is switchbacks.  Still took a while to get up the slope.
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Most of the morning I spent relocating the trail from under the snow.  I'd look for other foot prints, clipped trees, corridors of any kind.  I was either on a Ridge or just below it, all above 9,500.
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Needing water, since the next 20 miles are dry, I dropped into Grey Lake.  Grey Lake is around 10,000.  It's not even camp able yet for the snow.  I got what I needed.  I did say Lake of hydration and nutrition bit me, here it did.  I took deep breaths, drank a little but not enough.  Light headed, I knew I needed to descend.  I got out of the bowl.  Aimed myself towards trail looking territory and got below 9,000.
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This section is dry.  I got 2 1/2 litters.  Initially for the day I was going to call it short of the highway but I chose to press on.
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There's a utility project going on up and over Brockway Road.  Pausing at the escort through this section I asked a mountain biker if he had water at his vehicle.  I figured since he passed me going up, coming down was a sure bet he parked at the highway.  By this time I was down to 1 and a bit litters.  After the highway I've got another 7 miles before the next water source.  Mountain biker dude, thank you.
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I think I've pulled a 20 miler today.  I'm beat.  The snow crossings sucked from where's the trail to, I'm glad this snow has foot holds already.  Then this dry section.  Tip, drink before you get thirty.
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Since I planned extra time on this leg for snow crossings and I'm done with them for now.  I may take a Nero (low miles)at Watson Lake.  I'll drink up before I leave there and camp outside of town before my first resupply day.
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I'm gona enjoy a Mouthing House and a cup of tea now with my private view of Lake Tahoe.
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Hike On!

Day 1

Where do I begin besides leaving home before the traffic began to build for rush hour?
I got to Incline Village by 2pm so I hit the trail early.  This is good as the camp ground I wanted to stay at still isn't open.  I put an extra days rations I to my pack and left the car behind.
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Some ladies coming down said they had to us GPS to find the trail in places.  I have a map & compass.

I pushed through Galena Falls.  And met my first trail junction.  I stopped.  Snow, not just a patch of snow but a trail full of it.  I did my best to look for the trail in between the snow patches.
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I decided to call it a day with plenty of day light left.  I gathered some water for filtering.  I gathered sticks  for the Emberlit stove.  I set camp in a rocky, poor holding tent stakes soil.  I just found a few big rocks for the tent stakes.  Did I say it's windy where I'm at?  Yeah windy.  I hate wind.
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I started a fire quickly, adding sticks until my pot of water came to a boil.  This took a long time.  Just as I was ready to use it.  I tipped it over... bawha!  I ate a big spoon of peanut butter and a couple of tortillas instead.
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Looking at the trail from where I'm at.  Zoom in on the tracker and you may see a power line near by going to a communication tower.  Tomorrow Begins finding some trail of switch back nature under patchy snow.  Hence why I stopped here.
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Maybe I should have stayed at the falls.  It wasn't windy there.
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Hike on!

Final Details

My goal was to leave right after work.  I said goal, only because I knew it wouldn't happen as the little details would need attention up to the last moments .  Final check the car, play with the electronics, clean the house, all needed to get done this week.
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One or two little huge details also needed to be resolved.  The itinerary is finally finalized.  I'm sending it to the ground crew tonight.  The final big concern, where to park, got tied up just yesterday.  Google Maps, as awesome as it is, does not cover all.  I played phone tag with one Tahoe area business which lead me to another which resulted in another call.  The final call put me in touch with a group that runs a State Park off the Mt Rose Highway.  Parking was a concern right feom the beginning.   I gave this group:s representative my plates and dates.  He also gave some final tips, thank you.
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The attached photo gives good reason not to trust Google explicitly. This image is from a dirt track off of Sheep Creek Raod, Spanish Fork Canyon.  Yes, I say this as I write a message on G-mail to post to Blog Spot, both Google products.  The key here is never stop doing research and to use a variety of resources in planning, stay flexible throughout the entire process ready to adapt even while executing the plan.
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My final, final items today will be to wrap up the ruck, pack the car, and to make sure I have not included any unplanned weight while not cutting myself short on needed items like fresh batteries in the SPOT and headlamp. Oh what else am I forgetting already?
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Hike On!

Preppin

I'm checking maps, running web searches for Sierra snow level reports, playing with gear, etc about the only thing I haven't done is put myself on a strict diet and push myself into better physical condition.  Soon, all to soon, I'll be on the road to a trail for a few weeks.  Can you guess where?

Planning and more planning.  I've cyber-hiked this trail on Google Maps 3d.  Now I finalize with lookin at snow reports feeding into the water report (several sections are dry, on these sections I'll need to carry enough water to get to the next source)and these feed into elevation changes and pack weight to compute miles per day.  I want to say I've hit 'gram weanie' level with the gear.  I've trimmed the tooth brush, my dentist want me to do this a long time ago but, I've done it to fit I'm my pack.  I've measured out how many 3/4 litter pots of water I can boil in my canister stove. I gave in, I got an Emberlit wood camp stove for burning bio-mas (sticks).  I don't have to carry fuel, but I am.  I don't want to wait for coffee to boil in the mornings.  Why the concern for weight? Heavier equals slower.  On the day hike trails I'm quick.  On the overnight trails, I'm up to 15 miles per day over semi rugged terrain for a day with a 25lb pack.  I haven't done any multi-day hikes since the last long trail.  The lack of multi night outings I hope does not become my bane.

There are several things on getting ready for this trail that are an itch I'd like to resolve for others making plans for the hike around the blue jewel of the West.  First, plan an extra day to pick up the Desolation Wilderness Permit.  The Forest Service is serious about not issuing it before their two week window.  There is an office in Incline Village at the old library for those who choose to start a way from Tahoe City.  Second, don't shoot to hike this trail at the end of June on an average snow year.  I'm two parts confident I'll hit long stretches of snow.  I'm taking this earlier then recommended more for the ability to score the length of time off from work needed.  The water report needs to be taken into account around Tahoe City.  It's projected to be wet North Bound (NoBo) going into town and dry until Watson Lake and with a full 2 1/2 day resupply, okay that's 5lbs of food with 6 or more pounds of water.  FYI, on planning, I am starting at Tahoe Meadows in the North East corner.  Next, get the National Geo map of the area.  I do have Blackwoods Press TRT Pocket Atlas, it however is not printed on water proof paper.  These two map resources are the same ratio 1:63,360. Lastly,  get in trail shape with a few over nighters to be knowledgeable of what one can realistically do.  I'm coming off a desk and will be headed back to a desk.  I won't even get my trail stride before sitting back down. On the Appalachian Trail, I admired the section hikers, they were tough knowing that they were out for a sore time, year after year to finish the 2187 (odd) mile AT. This is an easy trail to plan for, go for it.  Dream Blue...

On my web searches the photos of this trail are stunning.  My north bound leg will share tread with the Pacific Crest Trail.  I've got several friends from the AT on the PCT.  I may not see them or if I do see a NoBo they may or may not know where my friends are.  I looked seriously at a counter clockwise (CCW) hike to put me South Bound on the PCT to increase my chance of crossing paths with NoBo's.  I want to find out more about their adventure beyond reading blogs and looking at Instagram photos.  As I'm writing this blog, I may head the other way around.  Out of Tahoe Meadows is MT Rose which I want to hit but not on my first day. I may take an extra day after completing the Rim.  The counter clockwise route puts Watson in the morning, a stealth site for camp outside of town, and a resupply of 3 1/2 days with good water out of Tahoe City.  Can anyone see my dilemma?  Okay, I've still got time to hash out version 8, 9, and 10 of this hike.  CCW would get me SoBo on the PCT and easier dry stretches with harder up hills. Umph!

I'm sure my immediate workmates are ready for me to be on the way or find another hobby.  The Boots McFarland comics are definitely a good rendition of my planning and execution of this adventure.  If you want to get notified of when I post, in the upper right corner of this page is a subscription link.  I haven't figure out how to link Instagram to feed into Blogger's format.  If you aren't on Instagram, no worries, it's another social media feed which resembled an older version  of Flickr.  I plan on writing every few days and for personal security post later.  My parents will know where I am at thanks to their little friend, SPOT, a satellite beacon I carry.

My pre-hike jitters are long gone.  I'll admit, I am already looking forward to the next long distance hike.  Things I am considering are other two to three week ventures, mainly late spring or early summer, resupply options.  I want to some how career track hiking along with work along with other things of life.

I recognize I mention other things in my last post.  There is a church out of Kalispell MT that wants to bring a campus to Utah, FreshLife.  There are also other solid Christian churches in Utah as well as other remote campuses.   If one church does not fit your style, look for another.  As I hike I realize my style of hiking is not for everyone.  I enjoy sharing by writing.  I did not get here by saying, I am a long distance, light weight hiker.  I got here first by being introduced to hiking by my Dad, Happy Father's Day.  Thanks for getting me out and about.  Then I was introduced to backpacking in Cub Scouts but, I really contribute it to a friend's Dad who took us to Grand Daddy Lake in the High Uinta's as Boy Scouts.  This hiking life is a progression.  Don't let anyone or anything hold you back from exploring the mountains, career, or faith.  The Trail will provide and when it doesn't one adapts, it's the same with life.

Hike On!

Loop Time

A discussion with a work mate on Tuesday made me glad I hadn't gone to the Uinta's.  A quick look at the forecast and at the maps, I decided to head up to, rather down to Sheep Creek Road and do a 20 mile loop in preparation for my vacation.  It'll be good.

Since I went to a Singles BBQ, I hit the road and on to the southern end of Sheep Creek around 9 am, it's a little more than an hour away.  I parked at Second Water, hike down to Fifth Water Trailhead, up passed the hot springs (complete with dogs in the water) passed a few more water falls, and across Sheep Creek Road.  I stopped for lunch.  Looking at the map and the time, I decided to press on.

At the top of 5th Water, I turned south towards 2nd Water.  5th and 4th Water canyons had good spots to camp but I decided to see what it took to do a long day.  Along the south bound portion, I played leap frog with a family of Trail riders on motor cross bikes.  Eventually they passed me for good.

I took a break at all the creek crossings on this leg.  Made good time.  Ironically, I'm at the same site I was last weekend.  Tomorrow's a short day maybe 2 miles to the car.  By my estimate, 18 miles today.  I chose not to stop at the hot springs to soak, also bathing in sulfur infused water is not my thing. I like my miles.

My thoughts today are not on the chafing, side note don't use hand sanitizer to clean that stuff, nuff said.  I'm sure there is a warning about rubbing it over chapped skin somewhere .  Thoughts aren't on the vacation, which is rapidly approaching.  It's on something completely different.  A Christian Church from Kalispell MT wants to plant a church in SLC.  I am a Christian.  I served as a missionary, cooking for a particular sea going organization, for many years.  I asked on of the team members from MT, why SlC.  His response 'an area can never have to many churches'  I stayed for the rest of that interest meeting.  I've gone to a few more meetings.  Would my readers mind if I added more to my blog besides hiking and more hiking?

Sorry about not following through with the last entry of doing an out and back on the Great Western.

The Great Western

It's Memorial Day Weekend, looking at the weather all week at work drove me a little nutty.  Rain/snow at 40% chance in the Uinta's or rain at 20% south of Utah County.  Even late Friday I didn't have a clue.  I swung by an outfitter for a map of the southern Wasatch.  My target became anything off Spanish Fork Canyon aka Highway 6.  It's an hour, odd, drive and if I see a bunch of snow there I can day trip it and be comfortable.

The Great Western caught my eye.  I've searched the internet for anything on this trail.  It lacks, horribly.  I saw I could hike north or drive south.  I hiked north.  The GW isn't all hiking, one can go off highway vehicle style in many areas, hitch a horse, and even drive a car.

I turned in at a rest stop to check my map and sure enough I was 1/4 mile from the trailhead.  I thought about driving up the dirt road however, the first stream crossing looked more like a jeep adventure.  I chose instead to park and hike.

7 stream crossings total as I got on to single track dirt bike territory.  I followed up to Strawberry Ridge.  Thinking, so this is why my Dad likes to hunt around here.  Rolling hills, loads of sage and Aspens, perfect for a big buck.  By the way, he hasn't gotten a deer for a few years.

Knowing this is my first time out this summer, every mile I hike out, I have to come back.  This trail doesn't make any loops. I also kept an eye to the sky.

I stopped for water at Second Water creek.  It was the first good flowing stream in 6 miles.  The meadow looked good for camping.  I headed to Third Water Creek and noticed nothing but hammocking sites.  I'm on the ground this weekend.  I looked at the map, noticing there would not be much ground dwelling sites for 3 or more miles, I doubled back.

At the top of an unnamed rise, I dropped the ruck and took a side trail.  A top the mountain (?) I saw Mt Nebo to the south, Mt Timpanogas to the north, and potential communication towers in between.  My phone was in the ruck, arugh. On my way up I caught a moment glance with a bulk elk in velvet.

I took my time getting to the meadow noted before.  When I did I scoped a spot out and set camp, cleaned up and did some writing.  As I finished my supper of crunchy knorr side garlic noodles with a side of Caribbean spiced tuna, a couple of runners came up the creek.  It's 1 1/2 miles to the nearest road.

Besides a lazy afternoon, I set out a solar panel to recharge a device that goes flat just by looking at it.  This is a small hand held ham radio.  I scanned for any 2 meter contacts then for a radio station.  The first station was Local Satilite Christian radio.  I left it there and enjoyed some older radio worship tunes.

Tomorrow, I'll reverse my direction, put the sandals  (Xeroshoes)for the creek crossings and possibly head south, camping along the road side.

For now, I see a little gold on the hill above and pink in the clouds.  I ready for rain and more so to stretch out to sleep.

Bell's Canyon Falls

This is a popular place to come to, I have no idea why I am alone right now.  This is a quick hike, less than an hour, up one of the many front canyons of the Salt Lake Valley.  I'm sitting here trying out a new pair of hiking sandals, more like getting ready to tape a few blisters.  My feet stuck to the Xeroshoes material.  No mater, blisters happen occasionally.  Soon my feet will toughen up for more punishment.

It hit me late last night, I'm soon on another adventure in about 2 months.  I'll see waterfalls, mountain peaks, Alpine lakes, and hopefully meet some of the PCT thru-hikers as they've crossed over their 1100 mile marker south of Lake Tahoe.  Mean while, I'll be crossing my 65 mile marker.

I want to dream big, PCT big? May be.  For now, I'll hike my weekender stuff, hit a few 30 to 50 milers , and perfect not getting sore or getting blusters.

Quick

Gazing at the view a head I glanced at the time stamp on my camera, I realized I'd been hiking for an hour and a half, winded, yes, tired, no.  I'd already reached my destination, of the beaver pond of Broads Fork of Big Cottonwood Canyon outside of SLC.  I hung out for a while using my snowshoes as a place to set my knapsack.
Three others on skis were grabbing a snack before they headed up a skin track to one of the chutes above.  Three others were nearing the top.
Years ago I chose not to get into backcountry skiing.  This area is wealthy to opportunity of terrain.  I'll add, too, avalanches.  From where I stood, I counted three recent slides.  Two of which are naturals coming off rock faces above, not from where someone would ski though.  The third was a wet sluff from a few warm days ago.  My route to this spot never crossing a run out path.  Broads Fork is nice in that regard.
On my way down I crossed paths with someone I've met several times before.  He's into mountaineering which will take him and his friends up through avalanche zones up to the peaks high above.  Later I crossed paths with another friend about a mile up the trail.
Arriving at the parking lot I glanced at the time, 11:20.  I'd been on the trail three hours, about five miles and 2700 feet elevation gain.  That was quick considering I had actual hiking boots on if I need to use the snowshoes and simply for being on semi punchy snow. Quick and well worth it this morning.