Our first backpacking experience

In August we had our first experience of backpacking in the Cascade Mountains. It was an amazing experience of soaking in the beauty of nature and slowing down in the absence of technology and the normal demands of life. We are grateful to Tiffany and Steve for introducing us to the unique experience and world of backpacking –the planning, the packing, lending equipment, and then hiking together and commiserating over sore muscles afterwards.

Day 1: We left Whidbey Island in the early morning, took the ferry and then the crowded freeway about 3 hours into the mountains. We started our hike towards Pete Lake and enjoyed the slow progress and accomplishment as we plodded forward and balanced 30+ extra pounds on our backs. It was a treat to pick and eat huckleberries and thimbleberries on the side of the path as we walked through the forest. When we reached our destination, the view of Pete Lake surrounded by mountains was delightful and satisfying. And the food and hot tea always taste wonderful after a long hike!

Day 2: we made a longer trek up to Spectacle Lake, an alpine lake high in the mountains. We had to wade through an icy cold river with a strong current on the way. There was a light rain all day, so we had our rain gear on, but got progressively soaked. We walked through a forest of tall evergreens, then entered an area that had been burned by wildfire several years before. Now the hillsides that had been burned were covered in a colorful display of wildflowers, including purple fireweed, along with new tree growth. We slogged up about 2 miles of switchbacks as we climbed higher into the mountains, encouraging each other to persevere. “We are getting close!” Finally we stepped into view of Spectacle Lake, nestled between many mountains. The wind, rain, and cold helped us decide not to linger and enjoy the view too long. We hiked back down the mountain, cold and wet but still enjoying the view and the company. Dry clothes never felt so good! We were very grateful for a break in the rain in the evening and some hot food and tea to warm up with. The hike was about 12 miles that day – the longest day hike we have walked in several years.

Day 3: we packed up our wet clothes and wet tent and put on our wet shoes for the hike out. The sun was shining and we could savor the view of the bright flowers and the tall trees as we walked through the forest. The three days seemed to have gone too fast; our legs and feet were sore, but we also felt like we wanted to continue the hiking and camping in the forest. We enjoyed lunch in a small town on the way home, then re-entered the world of traffic and freeways and technology.

Great memories, and we are already dreaming of where we can go next!