Elbo Creek

Winter forest morning,
the rain softly falling.
Waking trees stretch their limbs
to daylight are they calling.
Misty blankets they shed
and to our souls they beckon
"Join us" they quietly call
"Let your hearts come to reckon.
Believe in songs unheard
and visions yet unseen.
Learn from us our secrets
and realize your dream."
~Kristine Feddock



January 6, 2018

Along Hwy 101 and in the shadow of Mount Walker lies the Elbo Creek trail. Originally built by the CCC in the 1930's and partially destroyed by logging, it fell into the forgotten mists of memory until restored by the Washington Trails Association (WTA). It wasn't on our radar for the day, the year even, but our planned trail for the day was snowed in. Upon advice from the local ranger station we decided to visit Elbo Creek.

The day started out misty and wet - typical for winter in the Pacific Northwest. Joining me today were Anna, Evie and Holly. We donned our raingear and started up the trail. The trees stood shrouded in the mist, looking as though they were just awakening and climbing out from under blankets of fog. The trail itself was in good condition and, although steep, it steadily climbed uphill with purpose. The weather played with us, first steeping us in mist, then pelting us with rain before easing back into a steady drizzle. We hiked most of the way to the forest service road that bisects the trail, gaining roughly 1200 feet of elevation, then turned around and headed back to the trailhead - our appetite for adventure satisfied for the day.



Holly, Me, Anna & Evie

I plan to go back and investigate this trail further this summer. According to the trail guides, which I checked upon returning home, this is an alternate route to the summit of Mount Buckhorn. My last sojourn to that peak was rather "memorable" and I'd love to revisit it from a different route.

Hike 2:52
Distance: 3.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1200'
Highest Elevation Achieved: 2000'

Mazama Mimosas

Mazama Ridge, Mount Rainier

January 1, 2018

Fwuff. Fwuff. Fwuff.
Snowshoes speak to the sky.
Snow glistens like diamonds,
Flows like marshmallow cream.
Fwuff. Fwuff. Fwuff.
Over the hill we climb,
through trees covered in white,
mountain looming above.
Fwuff. Fwuff. Fwuff.
Last push through icy snow
and our destination
appears - Mazama Ridge.
Fwuff. Fwuff. Fwuff.
The sun shines crystal clear.
Packs off, we sit in snow,
Sip Mimosas in a dream.
~Kristine Feddock  



New Year's Day.

For a few years now I have been starting off each new year on an outdoor adventure - hiking, snowshoeing or at the beach - as long as it involves being outdoors. It grounds me and helps me face the new year with a positive vibe. This year was no different. The forecast called for sunshine and the avalanche risk for the day was moderate. I heard the mountains beckoning me to come play. For Christmas I had purchased a new set of chains for the Jeep, so Evie and I decided to head up to Rainier, with the Mazama Ridge trail being our destination for the day.

The sun shone so brightly, hitting the crystalline snow making it look like a million sparkling diamonds, adding to the richness of the day. The only sounds were those of our snowshoes on the snow, a stream cascading downhill, and an occasional 'ploof' as snow fell off the trees. We were striding through a dream.

The climb up the ridge was strenuous but worth every ounce of effort as we crested the top and surveyed the snowy scene that unfurled before us. My emotions overcame me and I began to weep tears of pure joy, of release. Long I have dreamed of reaching Mazama Ridge and my fears of inadequacy have held me back. Yet, here I was. I had made it. We trekked along the ridge for a short distance to an area offering a 360° view, with Rainier at our backs. We shed our packs, sitting in the snow, and mixed ourselves celebratory Mimosas. I reflected back on my achievements and the blessings of the previous year. Evie and I chatted, laughed and set goals for this new one. I can't think of a better way to celebrate the new year; beautiful setting, wonderful friend, dreams and Mimosas. I live a blessed life. 

Hike 1:52
Distance hiked: 2.75 miles
Highest point: 5,846'