Friday, August 22, 2008

The High Country





So.... I have procrastinated long enough in telling of our backpacking trip. Michael and I had a grand experience over 2 miles high in the Sierras. We started at the highest trail head in the Eastern Sierras, 10,250 ft. high. (Can't breathe!!) Click on photos to make larger.











This is "Little Lakes Valley". A spectacular series of lakes, all over 10,000 feet high. An incredible opportunity to appreciate the wonders of God's creations, and I move slow enough that we were able to take it all in.


As we carried backpacks that were too heavy, it dawned on me that if I did this often enough, I would be in great physical condition! Good goal.










Sleeping under the stars at that elevation is a totally different experience. You can't really make out the constellations because of the blanket of stars. The Milky Way was close enough to touch.













The granite peaks make you feel incredibly small.






You never get tired of looking at them.



Notice the snow pack still on the ground. I took this picture from one of our campsites.




Mike and I bathed in this creek just above where he is standing. We will never be the same, if you know what I mean (refreshing...Not!)







This is Rock creek that connects all of the lakes (Marsh Lake, Mark Lake, Heart Lake, Box Lake, Long Lake And (finally!) Chicken Foot Lake on our trip up Little Lakes Valley.

Now my goal is to hike the John Muir Trail before I get to old (should keep me young, don't you think?!!). 216 miles, from Yosemite to Whitney Portal.Some of the most spectacular country this side of Alaska.




So..... Who's going to get in shape and go with me???





9 comments:

Vidal's Nest said...

So so fantastic! I think the mountains is my ALL TIME favorite place! Even over the beach! (I know some of you think that is blasphemy!)
That looks like heaven to me.
I remember when we were young, camping in the mountains and sleeping on the cots outside and even though it was freezing, the stars were so spectacular I didn't mind.
And as to the bathing? Maybe if Tony won't get fixed we can get him in shape to go with you next time, and THAT would be taken care of Ü

DANI KYNASTON said...

I am so jealous. It is so beautiful. I would love to hike again. I am not sure what I would do with the kids, though. I think that Brent and I will need to start taking them with us soon. As for the John Muir Trail, count me in if it is once the kids are a little older. I would love it!

Amanda said...

how beautiful!! I love to camp. I'm not much of a hiker though. I told Josh about you and Mikey backpacking and he's a little jealous. I know that he would love to join you guys, somehow.

Lynda said...

Your pictures are awesome! I can't believe how beautiful it is. BUT, I'll stick to pictures, thank you very much. Even when I'm in great shape, I can't breathe at those altitudes!

Shelli said...

I'm sure we have a few takers in my family! Both Roms would love to join you, I'm sure -- and I have a few girls who could hold their own as well! I love the pictures, and I wish I had been with you.

Amanda said...

Hey this is Josh. If you come within a couple hundred miles of Boise I would be all over going with anybody hiking. I haven't really been hiking before but really really want to go. Idaho has so many trails that is why you guys should come and visit. I was watching PBS the other day and they were talking about Centennial Trail that goes from the Nevada border to the Canadian border through Idaho. There are a lot more trails then that though.

Anonymous said...

All right... I'm gonna have to post some pics of where I "have" to work on a weekly basis. Unfortunately, I have to bring a fishing pole sometimes.
I personally think we need to have a family reunion up here. I'll plan all kinds of fun manly things to do and let Janeal plan some girl things (Antique shopping etc). Also, we can do some incredible camping.

PS. I think I'm ready for some good hikes.

The Northwest Bunch said...

That was not real fair on Jim's part. Maybe I would love to hike(just for the day) and then go shopping later. I love the mountains as well and would enjoy the outdoors. I would have to bring all 5 kids but I think they could handle it. Let's not assume all we girls like to do is shop!!!!

Conforto Clan said...

so I'm not so sure about the getting in shape part but be sure to send me pictures when you do it so I can appreciate it too!
tammy