Last of Fall

We headed to Leavenworth for a camping overnighter and some climbing, catching the last of the fall season. It was surprisingly cold but clear and beautiful. You all know already that I'm a bit obsessed with the beauty of trees. And, while we were in Leavenworth, we climbed a fun multi-pitch route called 'The Tree Route'. So, in honor of trees...

B looking contemplative...

B didn't like the chimney pitch

but I thought it was awesome.

 B cramming gear in an under-cling

Midway tree

 This pitch was more of a scramble between trees...

 At the top

Ranger Carly's Last Gig

I spent a night in the woods with my sister last weekend. It was her last weekend in the woods -for the season- as wilderness forest ranger of the Leavenworth forest service district.

We haven't managed to hook up for a weekend in the woods for the past two years so it was great to get out together. I'm sure she agreed, especially b/c I add a certain amount of adventure to any camp-mate's sleeping experience. Apparently, I sat upright and screamed, "Oh MY GOD!" and then settled in back to sleep, while she was left with adrenaline pumping and fear of a hungry bear attack. Good times with Heather...this is pretty typical. ;)

We had one sunny day with great views.

We camped at Tops Lake, near the PCT.

...which leads me to the next topic: the Pacific Crest Trail, many an outdoorsman's life goal. A good friend is talking about trying to do it -the entire thing- this spring. Its not official or for sure yet but I look forward to helping out when she commits to it.

Carly & I ran into a guy, probably in his 50s, who was about to complete the PCT solo. It sounds like a pretty cool experience. Hiking for that long is bound to have an interesting impact on your body, mind, and soul.