We dashed off to White Pass to hike to the new lodge on Saturday. We spent 6 hours wandering around the new expansion area between 5500′ and 6500′. The weather was glorious. Not too cold, not too hot, it had recently frosted at that elevation so there were no bugs, no mud, even found a few blue berries. And I do mean a few.
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The girls really enjoy seeing the ski area during the summer. There are questions about terrain, topology, and landmarks being in the middle of what is supposed to be a smooth white slope. It’s satisfying to see their eyes light up and the wheels start to turn about how they will approach the hill the next time they ski it. There were more questions about direction and orienteering, weather, snow level and temperature. At one point they were even questioning the route down the mountain. All good in my book.
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Maleah found a wedge of wood that she became infatuated with. She was determined to haul it out, all the way to the car. She slipped a couple of times. I asked her if she really wanted to risk falling while carrying the wood, and she steadfastly refused to give it up. Of course, the farther down the hill we went, the more determined she became to haul it all the way to the car.
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The colors were awesome. Lots of red at 6000′. At home (750′) there is a bit of red, but mostly yellow and brown. At 6000′ it seems that the red is mostly at ground level, while the other colors are more-so in the trees, up off the ground. (I’m probably making it up ;^) Either way, the colors were awe inspiring. I had forgotten what the hills look like when you take the time to walk among the flora and not see it from a speeding car.
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We stumbled onto and over creek beds that were full, but not flowing and small lakes. These lakes would be called puddles if they were in an urban environment. They were from 10-50 feet across and 5″ to 24″ deep. Absolutely crystal clear water with luscious mosses and beautiful colors.
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Reflection, both physical and mental, made for a fine day.