Back in July I headed to Southern California to climb its 3 tallest peaks in 3 days as part of Adventure 16's 3 Peak Challenge. Who was crazy enough to join me? My folks of course! It turned out to be an amazing weekend and a reminder that staying active is the best medicine of all!
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Rich with history, The Pasayten Wilderness in Washington State spans 531,000 acres, skirts more than 50 miles of the Canadian border, and is one of the largest wilderness areas in the contiguous US. Horseshoe Basin in its northeastern corner is a high alpine tundra-like environment unlike anything else in the state. It's been on my list to explore for far too long. Last weekend I finally ventured there and left in awe of its landscape, solitude, and wildness.
Disappointment over my failed JMT attempt was replaced by excitement when I somehow lucked into Whitney day hike permits AND clearing smoke conditions. Standing on top of the Whitney summit at 14,505' with my dad and stepmom right next to me was proof that life rarely unfolds exactly as planned.
And just like that, one of my biggest dreams was over. Hiking the John Muir Trail in 2015 just wasn't meant to be. All I can do now is remember the amazing 8 days I had on the trail. I met incredible people, saw gorgeous country, and had one of the best experiences of my life.
I can't believe it's been a year since I joined family and friends in the Grand Canyon to complete the toughest and most memorable hike I've ever done: the Rim to the River and back in a day. I won't soon forget this experience in one of the most fantastic places in the world.