opal creek
jon and i just got back from what was by far the most enjoyable way to spend this fourth of july. i was desiring quiet, not partying, fireworks and beer. maggie the dog was seriously freaking out on saturday night due to the warm up fireworks. so we spontaneously took a last minute suggestion and went to opal creek, a little pocket of willamette national forest where the old growth is well protected by a nonprofit that is housed within the trees. it was a short backpacking trip but my hips, shoulders and ankles are complaining about the 30 pounds that they carried up and over many things. we camped near a stream where the water is still drinkable and drink it we did! in the night we didn't hear a single firework! it was perfect. the beauty of this little magical place is entirely indescribable but i always feel that i learn lessons in cooperation and recycling from an old growth forest and this time is no different. maggie the dog, though 10 and arthritic, made it on her first family backpacking trip. she is very sore now but she made it!
jon and i are now discussing hiking a local part of the pacific crest trail, about 50 or so miles of it, for his birthday. next summer we may aim to hike a 211 mile section of it that goes through redwood, sequoia and yosemite national parks! that sounds awesome right about now....well maybe not right now as i am exhausted but yes! soon.
jon and i are now discussing hiking a local part of the pacific crest trail, about 50 or so miles of it, for his birthday. next summer we may aim to hike a 211 mile section of it that goes through redwood, sequoia and yosemite national parks! that sounds awesome right about now....well maybe not right now as i am exhausted but yes! soon.