It's rare in life to get rewarded for very little effort, but the Bagley Lakes trail does just that. When recently camping with friends just 30 minutes from the recently plowed and open road to Artist Point, we couldn't resist the call of nearby Mt Baker. Along with a small crowd of other cars, we drove to the end of the road to explore the still snow covered Artist Point. Most of the crowd was content to park, play around in the snow, snap a few photos, then turn around and leave. We, however, also made a stop a little lower at the Bagley Lakes trailhead to stretch our legs on a short hike. While Artist Point was still heavily blanketed in snow, here there was more trail than snow - just barely. The three of us had visited once before, as part of a larger group during my bachelorette party two years ago. I've always loved returning to trails a different times of year to see the the dramatic changes the season make to familiar landscapes.
Read moreLife: Week 25
Summer is most definitely here! This past weekend, I kicked it off right with a wonderful camping trip with two good friends. It was raining when we arrived at the campsite, but we came armed with half a dozen tarps. After setting up our assorted rain covers and setting up our site, we got down to some serious relaxation. This particular weekend, we lucked out. After Friday night, the weather was beautiful through the weekend, and having arrived in the rain, we had our pick of the best campsites. Between the three of us, we brought enough alcohol for five, enough seating for six, and probably enough food for eight. Needless to say, we had a fabulous time eating and drinking all kinds of delicious things, lounging by the river, and even a little hiking. If only every weekend could be as jam-packed with good times!
Read moreAlpine Dreams
This past weekend, Andy I finally made it out for our first backpacking trip together. We'd had plans fall through for several trips so far this summer. Once, in June, because we realized we weren't prepared, then again twice because of weather - thunderstorms in the Cascades caused by the crazy heat wave we've had for most of the summer. With all these cancelled plans, I didn't quite believe we'd be going until we were actually on the trail.
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