A Quick Night Amongst Mt. Hood's Winter

I decided to head out on the skis to enjoy Mt. Hood's solitary peace for the night. It ended up being a fantastic night out. I've had this lightweight bivy bag for some time and it's only been used when the weather has been ideal. This was a good opportunity to try it in the winter and see how it performs. Weather conditions were stable, cold, with an accumulation of about 2 inches. Perfectly peaceful really. 

I brought along some camera gear and a tripod hoping to capture beautiful light on Hood's Southeast face. Unfortunately, the light conditions I was hoping for didn't happen, although the precipitation and lower than expected visibility proved calming and wonderful. 

Guess I'll have to make another journey up there in search of the winter light I'm hoping for.  

Riding Bicycles, Climbing Jefferson, and Riding Bikes again

3 tired, hungry, and thirsty friends nearing the end of a quick but long journey
CLICK here or any image to see the entire photo story

Terry, Sam, and I headed out from my house at around 4am on July 20, 2012 for a quick 90ish mile bike ride South to climb Mt. Jefferson's Park Glacier before riding the 90ish miles back home. Although the trip was a self supported bike to summit tour, Gina and Alissa met us at the South Breitenbush TH to saunter in with us and enjoy Jefferson Park for a couple of nights; a wonderful lake and meadow area at the base of Jefferson's North side. 

Terry Campbell hauling a load along the Clackamas River

The trip took us 4 days. We rode the 90ish miles down to the TH and hiked in most of the 3000' into Jefferson Park on the first day. Day 2 we had to fire up our nav skills as the trail was completely covered in snow; we all thought the snow would be clear that late in July, oops. The rest of day 2 was spent hydrating and just enjoying being in the mountains. I was still feeling thrashed on day 3 (climb day) and elected myself to spend Sunday helping the ladies navigate their way back to the cars as they had to head out. TC and Sam had a fun climb along with a successful summit. They rolled into camp shortly after I made my way back, and an oncoming storm caused us to pack up and head down to the TH for a night of rest before riding the 90ish miles back on day 4. 

Sam talked about the Ripplebrook Ranger Station (halfway home mark) and all of the food he was going to crush since we left camp that morning. He didn't lie, can't remember his tic-list exactly but he consumed a couple of cokes, 2 instant noodle cups, several Twinkies, and I don't know how many more well deserved treats. 

Another successful and memorable Mountaineering Bicycle Tour (MBT) put together by Terry Campbell. Thanks TC, awesome trip. Mt. Rainier MBT 2013!

A Wilderness Honeymoon in Isle Royale National Park

Moskey Basin Sunrise- CLICK any image to see the full photo story

It was honeymoon time; we decided to head back to the state that raised us and enjoy Michigan's Isle Royale National Park. A truly amazing and peaceful place. Every moment of this trip from sauntering on the island, to meeting new people, to hearing the Moose rut was filled with a genuine peace. No special yoga or meditation practice was needed to feel collected, calm, and all around grounded. These Northwoods have a special vibe I have never experienced anywhere else. It's a land of simplicity that makes it difficult to leave. Every time I've been fortunate enough to explore the Northwoods, from the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota to Isle Royale NP, and everything in between, there is a great pull, to stay and breath its unfiltered harmony...

Moskey Basin

Lake Superior

Gina excited about her breakfast

Gina and me at Moskey Basin

Lake Superior from Hwy 2 on our way back South