Devouring life, one bite at a time
My dad found this interesting lichen specimen when we stopped at the visitor center before hiking the mysterious Hoh Rainforest. Thought I’d share. There are few words for such an extraordinary place, but there are lots of pictures! Enjoy.
After leaving Hurricane Ridge, we continued west on our drive around Olympic National Park until we reached our next stop at Lake Crescent. A hike nearby gave us a preview of the rainforest ecosystem we’d be seeing when we went on to Hoh Rainforest, and …
I didn’t mind at all that our view was obstructed. When you are at your final destination on a trip, one that you’ve dreamed of seeing for ages, you’re just happy to be there. I’m sure these guys felt the same.
We did see a glacier up close and personal. That counts, right? Because it’s October and the ice is still there? Anyone?
This was our view, which didn’t showcase the Olympic Mountains at their peak, but I still found it to be pretty spectacular.
It started to clear up as we headed down the mountain.
And just beyond that ridge … Canada!
We drove around Lake Crescent towards the other side of the park and the other natural treasures in store.
After cruising along the Columbia River Gorge and heading into Washington state on our way to my aunt and uncle’s house, a mysterious mountain loomed ahead. Actually, we had to exit and drive a ways first, but then we saw it … Mount Saint Helens, …
After a day at Tahoe without much hiking, the next two days needed maximum mountain use. My dad and I went on a beautiful hike up to Dardanelles Lake. I scrambled down some rocks to the water so I could get my feet wet. With …
When we reached Wawona and the Pioneer Yosemite History Center.
Just think, this used to be the fancy way to get to the park.
My heart stopped at “stagecoach rides.” And at covered bridges and historic structures. Then I just pretended I was Laura Ingalls Wilder.
From inside the old artists’ cabin, where we met one of the artists-in-residence.
Little house in … Yosemite?
The smithy.
Buying tickets for a coach ride at the original stagecoach office. Those windows! The ticket lady! My heart.
The stagecoach ride was bumpy. And dusty!
Our driver- a single, employed man looking for a wife who can cook, sew and has all her teeth. He drinks a little, but he’s a catch!
Making friends.
In jail.
We hopped on the shuttle to see the redwoods in Mariposa Grove, which I’m a little concerned about. How many more fire scars can these babies withstand?
This guy is known as the Grizzly Giant.
The Bachelor and Three Graces.
One last look before we leave?
For the last day camping and hiking in Yosemite, my dad and I had our biggest hike yet up to the top of upper Yosemite Falls. It’s a good 7.6 miles, nothing we can’t handle. And lucky timing, too, since in a couple weeks this …
Our first big day of hiking- we started with Vernal Falls, an easier 3 mile loop, though lots of climbing. I was surprised by how full the falls are for this time of year, especially with little snow in the sierras. Lots of people go …
View of El Cap and Half Dome at the West entrance to the park.
Bridalveil Falls.
Entering a meadow towards Yosemite Falls.
A monarch caterpillar enjoying some milkweed.
The Ahwahnee Hotel.
We didn’t stay here- our intention was camping, after all- but lucked out and snagged a spot at Camp 4. Last minute reservations within the park in the summer are virtually impossible, so I panicked and booked a campsite over an hour outside the valley. We jumped at the chance to stay put, and were right at the base of the trailhead for Yosemite Falls.
So glad we made the stop on the way for a proper camp stove. Scrambled eggs and cold beer for dinner, and plans for an early start the next day.
What is it about the woods and creativity? A little fresh air, a night under the stars, and a pen in hand was just the thing I needed this weekend. I took my first trip up to Anderson Valley on my first ever writing retreat …