I headed to my favorite backpacking destination to meet up with the outdoor club I belong to in Washington. On the way I thought of my mom and our last adventure to Sequim and how much I appreciate my connection with her.
Saturday morning I drove up to meet my hiking companions near Port Angeles and carpool down the very steep road to the trailhead. The drive is spectacular with views of the high mountains and even the Strait of Juan De Fuca and Mt. Baker in the distance. Above is the start of the trail. I could spend a long time hanging out at this trailhead and we were just getting started!
I never remember seeing purple Paintbrushes. Amazing!
Heading up and over the first ridge.
We quickly found snow. It was nice and cool but sunny- perfect hiking weather.
Mt. Olympus and the next range in the distance
Soaking it all in as I climbed.
After the initial ridge we started down toward the beautiful lake which would be home for the night.
We passed through wildflower meadows.
So many Columbine.
The lake looked amazingly refreshing but the temps were only in the low 60s and cooling off quick so no swimming for me today.
The view from camp!
Many more Columbine and Lilly.
We made camp, had lunch and started climbing further toward Grand Pass.
I love how the melted and non melted snow took the same shape here.
The sky was amazing. I really did feel like we were climbing into the clouds.
We found more snow and got to cross some snowfields.
The rugged terrain.
So much snow!
A nice foot path to follow.
The steep climb kept going but this took our breath away and we kept going just a little farther.
We made it to the top of Grand Pass our destination today!
Feeling strong and taking a moment to celebrate and feeling high on life!
Wow! Soaking in the view!
There is another high point, but I admired it from below this time.
Plan BE!
The valley below.
Beautiful snow melt pool.
This little resilient tree made me smile.
Heading back through some snow.
Back near the lake this marmot was keeping watch. He was signaling all the other creatures that hikers were nearby.
Back at the lake, soaked my feet and enjoying the evening.
Our campsite front yard.
In the morning we headed out and up through the valley to make a little loop hike back up to the trailhead.
We took our time and frolicked in the high meadows- spring has come to the Olympics!
Happy to be alive in the most beautiful place on earth!
Back at the beautiful trailhead. Short but oh so sweet!!!
