Meadows (~9000 feet). Time to head home!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Onward to Yosemite
attached to Sequoia. We're currently going through the Fresno area on
the way to Yosemite.
Almost home!
More bears
Sherman" tree in Sequoia National Park... We've seen a lot of bears on
this trip.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Phoenix
for the weekend, then on the home stretch towards Yosemite.
Last night we saw the Flagstaff nightlife (University of Northern
Arizona). Now we can compare it to Tempe (ASU). One thing you gotta
love about college girls: we get older, they stay the same age...
Go Bears tomorrow. Huge day for Jahvid Best!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
September 24: Some more shots before we raft
Finally got these shots uploaded on this less than perfect internet access:
14 Mesa Verde, Four Corners, Monument Valley
14 Mesa Verde, Four Corners, Monument Valley
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
September 23: Another loooong day
After we left Canyonlands, we headed east to Mesa Verde, Colorado. Checked out the adobe houses in the cliffs out there, then swung southwest to check out Four Corners Monument (which I hear is not exactly the technical border, but it's still a cool thing to check out), then we swung back northwest into Utah to drive through Monument Valley, then back south into Arizona to finally end up here, in Page, Arizona.
We got a motel here in Page and will be setting out tomorrow afternoon on a float down the Colorado River.
Now that I've got internet again, here are some new photo albums:
12 Arches, Canyonlands
13 The Needles
Photos from today will be posted later. Would have posted them tonight, but the internet was taking too long!
We got a motel here in Page and will be setting out tomorrow afternoon on a float down the Colorado River.
Now that I've got internet again, here are some new photo albums:
12 Arches, Canyonlands
13 The Needles
Photos from today will be posted later. Would have posted them tonight, but the internet was taking too long!
September 23: Leaving Canyonlands for Mesa Verde
[wrote this post on the road earlier today, I'll update to the present in a new post]
Just leaving the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. We backpacked two nights in there. Great views of the Needles, which are these narrow, dagger like sandstone towers sticking up everywhere around the park. The Needles District is in the south portion of Canyonlands.
We got into this area, which is more or less the outskirts of Moab, Utah, Saturday night after Bryce. As mentioned before, we had a hell of a time getting a place to stay Saturday night. But then we got up super early Sunday morning to get in line to grab one of the very few open campsites in Arches. Our determination paid off and we were one of only 8 groups to get a spot that night.
After getting a campsite, we checked out Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point (to the west of Moab) in the morning and afternoon. Then we headed back to Arches to see what is probably the most recognized arch in the park, known as Delicate Arch (which is the arch on Utah's license plate).
Monday we headed out to the Needles, in the south portion of Canyonlands to backpack. Spent two nights in the wilderness. Last night was the best. We found a nice, flat, and slightly inclined rock to watch the sunset and the stars come out. Last night was probably the largest sky we've seen yet.
Anyway, we're now headed out of Canyonlands towards Mesa Verde, Colorado. Tonight we're sleeping in Monuument Valley. Then rafting the Colorado tomorrow. Friday, it's on to Phoenix.
Just leaving the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. We backpacked two nights in there. Great views of the Needles, which are these narrow, dagger like sandstone towers sticking up everywhere around the park. The Needles District is in the south portion of Canyonlands.
We got into this area, which is more or less the outskirts of Moab, Utah, Saturday night after Bryce. As mentioned before, we had a hell of a time getting a place to stay Saturday night. But then we got up super early Sunday morning to get in line to grab one of the very few open campsites in Arches. Our determination paid off and we were one of only 8 groups to get a spot that night.
After getting a campsite, we checked out Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point (to the west of Moab) in the morning and afternoon. Then we headed back to Arches to see what is probably the most recognized arch in the park, known as Delicate Arch (which is the arch on Utah's license plate).
Monday we headed out to the Needles, in the south portion of Canyonlands to backpack. Spent two nights in the wilderness. Last night was the best. We found a nice, flat, and slightly inclined rock to watch the sunset and the stars come out. Last night was probably the largest sky we've seen yet.
Anyway, we're now headed out of Canyonlands towards Mesa Verde, Colorado. Tonight we're sleeping in Monuument Valley. Then rafting the Colorado tomorrow. Friday, it's on to Phoenix.
Monument Valley
Just drove through Utah's Monument Valley at sunset. It was tough to
get great pictures with the lighting, but Google it. Absolutely
incredible...
get great pictures with the lighting, but Google it. Absolutely
incredible...
Matthew M. Brown
Mesa Verde: check
Puebloan cliff dwellings. This is the Cliff Palace. Pretty phenomenal.
Now onto Four Corners, Monument Valley, and "rafting" (see leisurely
floating) the Colorado river in the Grand Canyon on Thursday.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
September 20: Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point
our well deserved campsite in Arches.
Today we checked out Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point. That shot is
looking down on the Colorado River as it winds it's way past Dead
Horse Point.
Lesson Number One When Visiting Arches National Park
a place to sleep last night. Every motel in the area and most
campsites were full up. We finally did find a site at a Bureau of Land
Management site south of Moab. Now, to ensure we get one of the very
few sites within the park, which are first come, first served, we're
here at the visitor center at 6:30am.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Arches
again tomorrow and then start making moves toward Canyonlands a little
bit south.
September 19: From the Bryce Canyon Best Western
So, we've finally got access to internet that isn't slow as molasses (thank you Best Western).
Bryce Canyon was amazing. We got here last night, as Matt mentioned, after we checked out the southeast corner of Zion. Just as we left Zion it started raining cats and dogs. We got a cool lightning show on the road to Bryce and, luckily, we rolled into Bryce just as the storm passed.
We got a campsite in Bryce, then drove to the rim of the canyon to see the Hoodoos, which are simply amazing. I took some photos last night at the Hoodoos, which are the shots with the overcast sky. Then we grabbed a shower at the park General Store, did laundry in town (it is SOOOO great to finally have clean socks again!) and grabbed dinner in town.
This morning we woke up early and hiked down into the Hoodoos which was even cooler than seeing them from above. You can distinguish the morning's photos because there is a really cool lighting effect on the Hoodoos from the rising sun.
Now, as I mentioned below, we're holing up near the only TV we could find in the area at the Best Western watching the Cal game. Here are the links to the last few sets of photos:
09 Kolob Canyons, Zion National
10 North Rim, Grand Canyon
11 Bryce Canyon
Tonight, we're off to Eastern Utah to see Arches, Canyonlands and beyond.
Bryce Canyon was amazing. We got here last night, as Matt mentioned, after we checked out the southeast corner of Zion. Just as we left Zion it started raining cats and dogs. We got a cool lightning show on the road to Bryce and, luckily, we rolled into Bryce just as the storm passed.
We got a campsite in Bryce, then drove to the rim of the canyon to see the Hoodoos, which are simply amazing. I took some photos last night at the Hoodoos, which are the shots with the overcast sky. Then we grabbed a shower at the park General Store, did laundry in town (it is SOOOO great to finally have clean socks again!) and grabbed dinner in town.
This morning we woke up early and hiked down into the Hoodoos which was even cooler than seeing them from above. You can distinguish the morning's photos because there is a really cool lighting effect on the Hoodoos from the rising sun.
Now, as I mentioned below, we're holing up near the only TV we could find in the area at the Best Western watching the Cal game. Here are the links to the last few sets of photos:
09 Kolob Canyons, Zion National
10 North Rim, Grand Canyon
11 Bryce Canyon
Tonight, we're off to Eastern Utah to see Arches, Canyonlands and beyond.
Sept. 19: Cal Game Timeout
last nonconference game, so we convinced the concierge at the Best
Western that w had actually stayed there, but just checked out, so
they let us watch the game on their TV in the breakfast room. We are
literally the only people in here. But we've got a full set up of junk
food for the game.
Friday, September 18, 2009
September 18: Grand Canyon, then back to Utah
Ok, so going back to the Kolob Canyons. After our super long drive from Jackson, Wyoming, to Nephi, Utah, (pronounced Nee-phi), we headed south to Zion. Along the way, we came across the Kolob Canyons, in the northwest corner of the park. Although our plan was to backpack the southeast corner of the park, we took one look at the Kolob Canyons and changed our mind.
We hiked in about 6 miles into the canyons to an awesome campsite right next to a little watering hole which we could swim in. After setting up camp, I set to the task of hanging a rope in the tree near our site to hang food away from the animals overnight. This task became much more work than previously assumed, when the rope got tangled about 40 feet up into the tree. So, for the next hour or so, Matt and I schemed ways to get the stranded rope out of the tree. Our initial plan—throw rocks at the rope—failed miserably. Eventually, I had to simply climb up 40 feet into the three as Matt threw long sticks up to me at my perch about 10 feet from the rope. Then, using the duct tape I always bring out into the backcountry, I duct taped together three long sticks to poke at and eventually pull in the rope, which I then threw down to Matt. All this was done as I was latched onto a branch of the tree so small that it swayed with every movement I made and with every small gust of wind. Quite an exciting way to start our trip in the canyons.
The next night we had booked the same campsite, so we used Wednesday to day hike around the area. We hiked up a few valleys and then hiked up to what is called the Kolob Arch, a free standing arch of rock. It was pretty cool.
We hiked the Kolob Canyons early Thursday morning and drove all the way south to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The plan was to simply car camp at the Canyon, check it out, and then drive back into Utah for Bryce.
However, upon getting to the Grand Canyon, we found that all the campsites were full. We were a bit tired from our 6 mile hike out of the Kolob Canyons that morning, but decided to check out if backpacking was an option.
As has occurred many times this trip, the least planned portions become the most memorable. The ranger recommended to us this short 5 mile hike on the Widforss Trail out to Widforss Point. Our campsite, 5 miles in, was literally on the edge of the North Rim. The pictures we got from just below our tent are amazing. We ate dinner on this little ridge and watched the colors change on the Canyon as the sunset. Then we sat under the stars and I probably saw more stars at one time than ever before in my life. Woke up in the morning and saw the Canyon at sunrise, which was equally as awesome. The only negative on the entire site was the mice who ravaged our tent all night long. I’ve got two holes in my pack now from where mice gnawed through trying to find food. But all in all, a great campsite.
After the Canyon, we drove back up to Zion again, this time the southeastern corner that we missed when we hiked the Kolob Canyons (that’s what Matt’s post below is about). As Matt said, the place was packed, we couldn’t get a car campsite and didn’t feel like trying to hike into the backcountry again (which is unfortunate because that backcountry is beautiful). So we changed plans (as is the norm on this trip) and drove to Bryce Canyon instead. We got a campsite here and just spent the last few hours checking out the canyon, which is, in one word, epic. Here’s a shot as an example. I’ll add more after we’re done here.
In the meantime, here are some photos from the Kolob Canyons and the Grand Canyon, I'll add more when we get an internet connection that isn't slow as molasses.
Strike that, the connection was too slow to even post a few photos. But take my word for it, they're pretty amazing. I'll get them posted ASAP.
We hiked in about 6 miles into the canyons to an awesome campsite right next to a little watering hole which we could swim in. After setting up camp, I set to the task of hanging a rope in the tree near our site to hang food away from the animals overnight. This task became much more work than previously assumed, when the rope got tangled about 40 feet up into the tree. So, for the next hour or so, Matt and I schemed ways to get the stranded rope out of the tree. Our initial plan—throw rocks at the rope—failed miserably. Eventually, I had to simply climb up 40 feet into the three as Matt threw long sticks up to me at my perch about 10 feet from the rope. Then, using the duct tape I always bring out into the backcountry, I duct taped together three long sticks to poke at and eventually pull in the rope, which I then threw down to Matt. All this was done as I was latched onto a branch of the tree so small that it swayed with every movement I made and with every small gust of wind. Quite an exciting way to start our trip in the canyons.
The next night we had booked the same campsite, so we used Wednesday to day hike around the area. We hiked up a few valleys and then hiked up to what is called the Kolob Arch, a free standing arch of rock. It was pretty cool.
We hiked the Kolob Canyons early Thursday morning and drove all the way south to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The plan was to simply car camp at the Canyon, check it out, and then drive back into Utah for Bryce.
However, upon getting to the Grand Canyon, we found that all the campsites were full. We were a bit tired from our 6 mile hike out of the Kolob Canyons that morning, but decided to check out if backpacking was an option.
As has occurred many times this trip, the least planned portions become the most memorable. The ranger recommended to us this short 5 mile hike on the Widforss Trail out to Widforss Point. Our campsite, 5 miles in, was literally on the edge of the North Rim. The pictures we got from just below our tent are amazing. We ate dinner on this little ridge and watched the colors change on the Canyon as the sunset. Then we sat under the stars and I probably saw more stars at one time than ever before in my life. Woke up in the morning and saw the Canyon at sunrise, which was equally as awesome. The only negative on the entire site was the mice who ravaged our tent all night long. I’ve got two holes in my pack now from where mice gnawed through trying to find food. But all in all, a great campsite.
After the Canyon, we drove back up to Zion again, this time the southeastern corner that we missed when we hiked the Kolob Canyons (that’s what Matt’s post below is about). As Matt said, the place was packed, we couldn’t get a car campsite and didn’t feel like trying to hike into the backcountry again (which is unfortunate because that backcountry is beautiful). So we changed plans (as is the norm on this trip) and drove to Bryce Canyon instead. We got a campsite here and just spent the last few hours checking out the canyon, which is, in one word, epic. Here’s a shot as an example. I’ll add more after we’re done here.
Strike that, the connection was too slow to even post a few photos. But take my word for it, they're pretty amazing. I'll get them posted ASAP.
Leaving Zion
We are leaving Zion because it's overrun with people. This picture is us at the Zion Canyon overlook, after a 1 mile hike in flip flops. We're headed 2 hours to Bryce Canyon for the night...
Look for Caley's post soon with pictures and a detailed account of 2 incredible stops: 1) 2 solitary nights in the back country if the Kolob Canyons and 2) 1 solitary night in the back country of the Grand Canyon's North Rim. We literally camped on the edge of the Grand Canyon and there wasn't another soul for miles... Awesome.
Go Bears tomorrow!!!
Matthew M. Brown
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Zion
Zion Canyon. Instead we hiked the Kolob Canyons in the northwest
corner of the park. Pictures and a longer story to come later.
Monday, September 14, 2009
September 14: Nephi, UT
After a looooooong drive from the Grand Tetons, via Idaho, to Nephi, Utah (an hour or so south of Salt Lake), we're finally in a motel that has WiFi, such a luxury these days.
So to recap, Yellowstone was awesome. We saw almost the entire park, literally. The only road in the park we didn't at least drive was the road to the East Entrance. Other than that, we saw some amazing geology and wildlife. In one drive alone along the Lamar Valley, we saw over 200 buffalo, a handful of pronghorns, a coyote, and a family of river otters (from about 10 feet away). On our drive out of the park, we saw a grizzly bear from about 150 to 200 feet off the road. He was hard to see though, because he was hiding in a grove of trees.
After that, we headed to the Grand Tetons, just south of Yellowstone. We camped a night in the Tetons just barely getting our tent up before the rain. The next morning we did a little hike up to a lake called Bearpaw Lake (GO BEARS!!!). After that, we headed south to Jackson Hole for lunch. Then our long journey to southern Utah began.
The drive south was highlighted with some extreme downpours, but we made it safely here in Nephi around 10pm. Now we're just recharging our batteries (literally and figuratively) in the motel in preparation for a big long stretch of camping.
Tomorrow we head to Zion National Park for two nights. After that, we plan on staying a night in near the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, which has been highly recommended to us. Then we head to Bryce Canyon National for two nights. After that, the schedule is less set in stone, but we're planning on hitting Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Verde (in Colorado), then the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and then stopping in Phoenix to hang out with my uncle Steve (Steve, if you're reading this, I was going to call tonight but it got too late. I'll call tomorrow to see if the timing works for you, we're thinking we'd get there on the 25th and leave the 26th). And after Phoenix, it's on to Seqouia National, then Yosemite, then home. Whew.
Anyway, I've posted new photos from Yellowstone and the Tetons and finally got around to getting photos from Glacier, Banff, and Vancouver. Here's the links to all the photos posted (only these new links work, since I changed the titles on all the albums):
01 Lost Coast
02 Crater Lake
03 Seattle
04 Olympic National Park
05 Victoria, Vancouver
06 Vancouver, Banff (new, I think)
07 Glacier National Park (new)
08 Yellowstone, Tetons (new)
So to recap, Yellowstone was awesome. We saw almost the entire park, literally. The only road in the park we didn't at least drive was the road to the East Entrance. Other than that, we saw some amazing geology and wildlife. In one drive alone along the Lamar Valley, we saw over 200 buffalo, a handful of pronghorns, a coyote, and a family of river otters (from about 10 feet away). On our drive out of the park, we saw a grizzly bear from about 150 to 200 feet off the road. He was hard to see though, because he was hiding in a grove of trees.
After that, we headed to the Grand Tetons, just south of Yellowstone. We camped a night in the Tetons just barely getting our tent up before the rain. The next morning we did a little hike up to a lake called Bearpaw Lake (GO BEARS!!!). After that, we headed south to Jackson Hole for lunch. Then our long journey to southern Utah began.
The drive south was highlighted with some extreme downpours, but we made it safely here in Nephi around 10pm. Now we're just recharging our batteries (literally and figuratively) in the motel in preparation for a big long stretch of camping.
Tomorrow we head to Zion National Park for two nights. After that, we plan on staying a night in near the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, which has been highly recommended to us. Then we head to Bryce Canyon National for two nights. After that, the schedule is less set in stone, but we're planning on hitting Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Verde (in Colorado), then the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and then stopping in Phoenix to hang out with my uncle Steve (Steve, if you're reading this, I was going to call tonight but it got too late. I'll call tomorrow to see if the timing works for you, we're thinking we'd get there on the 25th and leave the 26th). And after Phoenix, it's on to Seqouia National, then Yosemite, then home. Whew.
Anyway, I've posted new photos from Yellowstone and the Tetons and finally got around to getting photos from Glacier, Banff, and Vancouver. Here's the links to all the photos posted (only these new links work, since I changed the titles on all the albums):
01 Lost Coast
02 Crater Lake
03 Seattle
04 Olympic National Park
05 Victoria, Vancouver
06 Vancouver, Banff (new, I think)
07 Glacier National Park (new)
08 Yellowstone, Tetons (new)
Somewhere in Idaho
We're driving from the Tetons through Idaho to Salt Lake City tonight.
We seriously just saw tumbleweed tumble across the highway.
We seriously just saw tumbleweed tumble across the highway.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Grand Tetons
enjoying a beer by the lake with this unbelievable view.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Gardner, MT
to see the USC v Ohio State game. Can't seem to get the Cal game on
TV, but we're paying attention via iPhone for score updates.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Glacier to Yellowstone
We left Glacier National Park today after hiking the 10 mile Iceberg
Lake Trail then camped at the insanely beautiful - but poorly named -
Cracker Lake. Great stuff... But hiking 22 miles in 24 hours will get
ya.
Lake Trail then camped at the insanely beautiful - but poorly named -
Cracker Lake. Great stuff... But hiking 22 miles in 24 hours will get
ya.
We're about 1-2 hours from West Yellowstone, where we'll either camp
or get a motel.
We do have some great pictures and stories to tell (including some
bears), but it's tough to get Internet and time to use it all at once.
That said, we're still alive. And Go Bears this weekend!!
Matthew M. Brown
Monday, September 7, 2009
September 7: Three states in one day
Portland. Headed back to Kalispell, MT to meet back up with Matt and
head into Glacier National. I swear I'll get pictures posted eventually.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
September 3: Big Fork, MT
So . . . that was a long hiatus with no internet and no phone service. Banff was simply amazing, just wait for the photos (I'll try to post them later today while waiting for my flight).
Anyway, when we last left you we were in Revelstoke, BC. I forgot to mention, there was some crazy forest fire going on somewhere in the area that almost completely blacked out the sky. Made for a pretty eerie looking red moon that night.
After Revelstoke, we drove into Banff which is just over the border in Alberta. We saw some really cool looking lakes (you will not believe the shade of light blue these lakes are). We camped in Banff two nights, met some Canadians at the campsite and checked out the area with them.
Then it was back to the states. We got to the McKenzie Cabin in Big Fork, MT last night. This is where Matt and I split. Matt will stay here with his friends from college and I'm flying today at 3pm for Portland to see all my friends from college.
Anyway, I want to enjoy the amazing amenitites at this cabin before we leave, so I'm done writing for now. I'll get pictures organized and possibly posted during my layover in Seattle.
Anyway, when we last left you we were in Revelstoke, BC. I forgot to mention, there was some crazy forest fire going on somewhere in the area that almost completely blacked out the sky. Made for a pretty eerie looking red moon that night.
After Revelstoke, we drove into Banff which is just over the border in Alberta. We saw some really cool looking lakes (you will not believe the shade of light blue these lakes are). We camped in Banff two nights, met some Canadians at the campsite and checked out the area with them.
Then it was back to the states. We got to the McKenzie Cabin in Big Fork, MT last night. This is where Matt and I split. Matt will stay here with his friends from college and I'm flying today at 3pm for Portland to see all my friends from college.
Anyway, I want to enjoy the amazing amenitites at this cabin before we leave, so I'm done writing for now. I'll get pictures organized and possibly posted during my layover in Seattle.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
August 30: Revelstoke, BC
After an exciting weekend in Vancouver with Matt's cousin Kelly, we hightailed it to the northeast headed towards Banff. We've got a motel in this little town called Revelstoke, BC, a few hours away from Banff.
On our way up here, we stopped off at this little lakeside town called Kelowna. It looked like a really cool place, but we were there at the wrong time (Sunday night) and there appears to be some forest fire going on north of Kelowna that almost completely blacked out the sky. We had dinner in Kelowna, then got out of town fast to escape the smoke.
Tomorrow: Banff. Should be amazing.
On our way up here, we stopped off at this little lakeside town called Kelowna. It looked like a really cool place, but we were there at the wrong time (Sunday night) and there appears to be some forest fire going on north of Kelowna that almost completely blacked out the sky. We had dinner in Kelowna, then got out of town fast to escape the smoke.
Tomorrow: Banff. Should be amazing.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Vancouver (and a little Victoria)
So, we've kept you all out of the loop recently. That's because, unfortunately, data charges for an iPhone in Canada are way too much. But, we've made it to Vancouver. Well, actually, we're in Point Roberts, which is not really Canada, but actually American soil just south of the 49th parallel. Check it out on Google maps, it's a pretty cool part of America that touches only Canada by land.
We spent the day checking out Vancouver, and are now back at Matt's cousin Kelly's place to relax before heading back out into Canuck-ville for a night on the town.
Before we got here, we spent Wednesday night in Victoria, BC. We had a pretty good night on the town, despite the fact that the town is mostly for newly weds and retired people. Needless to say, we're happy to be near Vancouver, a town that is more up to our speed.
Anyway, I finally got around to uploading pictures from Olympic National Park. Here's the link.
We spent the day checking out Vancouver, and are now back at Matt's cousin Kelly's place to relax before heading back out into Canuck-ville for a night on the town.
Before we got here, we spent Wednesday night in Victoria, BC. We had a pretty good night on the town, despite the fact that the town is mostly for newly weds and retired people. Needless to say, we're happy to be near Vancouver, a town that is more up to our speed.
Anyway, I finally got around to uploading pictures from Olympic National Park. Here's the link.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
August 26: Port Angeles
We're just hanging out in a coffee shop in Port Angeles, waiting for our 5:15 ferry to Victoria. Going to shack up in a hostel tonight and check out Victoria tomorrow. Then off to Vancouver for the weekend.
I'll get a full album of new photos up later, but here's a few pictures of the epic scenery in the Olympic National Forest.
I'll get a full album of new photos up later, but here's a few pictures of the epic scenery in the Olympic National Forest.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Forks ranger station
keeping us from hiking too far today so we're going to drive a little
south to the Hoh river and check out the rainforest (apparently there
is one up here). Then we'll drive back to the coast, hike in a mile or
two, and set up camp at what is called Third Beach. Tomorrow we'll
hike to Toleak Point.
Pictures finally up
We're at my grandparents' place in Suquamish. Had an interesting night at a local watering hole last night. Now we're headed out to camp on the west coast of Olympic for a few nights, then on into Canada.
Here's the link to the photos.
Here's the link to the photos.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Leaving Seattle
to meet Caley at his grandparents' place. Olympic National Park
tomorrow and then on to Canadia.
Mike starts work with his judge in Seattle tomorrow. Suckaaaa....
August 23: Seattle to Suquamish
[I wrote this at 9am, but apparently didn't post it, so, here it is, I still haven't uploaded the new photos, but I'm doing so now]After a nice couple of nights in Seattle with Mike (who is extremely nervous about starting his career come Monday morning) and my friend Jess, I jumped on the Seattle-Bainbridge ferry to hang out with my grandparents in Suquamish, WA.
I'm off to eat breakfast cooked by my uncle Sam (should be delicious) and then off to the local casino to play in a poker tournament with my grandpa.
Matt's still in Seattle getting in one more day with Mike, and will head out here tonight. Then we're off to Olympic National Park to go hike the Washingtonian west coast.
I'll update this post with a link to pictures when I get them organized.
Oh, and the shot above is from the ferry looking back at the Seattle skyline.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Seattle
neighborhood, which is similar to San Francisco's Pacific Heights.
Warm day, despite the clouds.
There should be a more comprehensive post coming, if we can get an
Internet cafe... Shouldn't be too hard in this city.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The Nanzer Bed and Breakfast
We stayed the night at my buddy Kevin's place in Portland. That
picture you see above is the bar he designed and built by himself.
It's pretty awesome. And for all you headed up here for Labor Day,
he's made a couple new additions to the house since last year which
are pretty amazing as well. Especially given that he set a sliding
glass door into the wall completely by himself.
Now we're of towards Hood for some waterfalls and some more camping.
And tomorrow we're Seattle bound.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
August 17
we spent some serious money on Oregon Pinot Noir... 100 degrees in a
Sonoma clone an hour southwest of Portland. Serious heat wave...
Oregonian wine country
four places to taste within walking distance so we're checking it out.
Pretty cool so far
Sunday, August 16, 2009
August 14-16: Medford, Crater Lake, McMinnville
Ahh, back to civilization (and internet access).
Since we last left you, we were in Medford, Oregon relaxing after three long days in California's Lost Coast. In Medford, we met up with one of my friends, Bryan, who recently moved up to Medford, and all three of us headed out to Crater Lake. Through some dumb luck, we went the wrong way to Crater Lake and ended up going all the way around to the north entrance of the park, even though our campsite was in the south part of the park. However, this mistake paid off as we got some great views of the area and the lake as we drove back down to our campsite at Camp Mazama.
We spent the night at Mazama relaxing by our fire. The next day we woke up planning to circumnavigate Crater Lake.
We first stopped at the Crater Lake Lodge to hike the short 1.7 mile hike to the top of Garfield Peak (8,054 ft) for a great view of the landscape. Then we hiked down and drove around the west side of the lake to Cleetwood Cove, the only place on the lake where you can actually get down to the eeriely clear blue water and touch it. We got down there and found people jumping off a 25 foot jumping rock, which we all three did not hesitate to dive off as well (check out the pictures on photobucket, link is below).
After an envigorating dip in the cold lake, we completed our circumnavigation of Crater Lake by driving around the east side of the crater. We got back to our campsite, armed with marshmallows, and enjoyed a night of smores by the fire. Great way to finish off a weekend at Crater Lake.
This morning we parted ways with Bryan, after he graciously loaned us his binoculars and a book of maps for our continued journeys. Matt and I headed north to Oregon's wine country, via Eugene.
We stopped in Eugene to check out the University of Oregon. Matt proudly wore his California Blue & Gold for the tour, just to let those ducks know we come from better stock.
After Eugene, we continued north with no real destination. We made some scenic detours and stumbled upon a little winery called Hauer of the Dauen (pronouned "Hour of the Dawn"). We tasted some Oregonian wine and got some tips from the guy behind the counter. He suggested we check out McMinnville, a few miles away, so we took his advice. And we're glad we did. McMinnville is a chill little town, a little like Sonoma, with a beautiful liberal arts college, Linfield, which we checked out.
Anyway, we're now back at the motel excited that we have HBO so we don't have to miss Entourage this week. So, goodnight all, I'm off to watch the best show on TV right now.
----
----
Oh yeah, here's the link to the new set of photos from the past few days.
Here's the link to the previous set of photos as well, if you missed them.
Since we last left you, we were in Medford, Oregon relaxing after three long days in California's Lost Coast. In Medford, we met up with one of my friends, Bryan, who recently moved up to Medford, and all three of us headed out to Crater Lake. Through some dumb luck, we went the wrong way to Crater Lake and ended up going all the way around to the north entrance of the park, even though our campsite was in the south part of the park. However, this mistake paid off as we got some great views of the area and the lake as we drove back down to our campsite at Camp Mazama.
We spent the night at Mazama relaxing by our fire. The next day we woke up planning to circumnavigate Crater Lake.
We first stopped at the Crater Lake Lodge to hike the short 1.7 mile hike to the top of Garfield Peak (8,054 ft) for a great view of the landscape. Then we hiked down and drove around the west side of the lake to Cleetwood Cove, the only place on the lake where you can actually get down to the eeriely clear blue water and touch it. We got down there and found people jumping off a 25 foot jumping rock, which we all three did not hesitate to dive off as well (check out the pictures on photobucket, link is below).
After an envigorating dip in the cold lake, we completed our circumnavigation of Crater Lake by driving around the east side of the crater. We got back to our campsite, armed with marshmallows, and enjoyed a night of smores by the fire. Great way to finish off a weekend at Crater Lake.
This morning we parted ways with Bryan, after he graciously loaned us his binoculars and a book of maps for our continued journeys. Matt and I headed north to Oregon's wine country, via Eugene.
We stopped in Eugene to check out the University of Oregon. Matt proudly wore his California Blue & Gold for the tour, just to let those ducks know we come from better stock.
After Eugene, we continued north with no real destination. We made some scenic detours and stumbled upon a little winery called Hauer of the Dauen (pronouned "Hour of the Dawn"). We tasted some Oregonian wine and got some tips from the guy behind the counter. He suggested we check out McMinnville, a few miles away, so we took his advice. And we're glad we did. McMinnville is a chill little town, a little like Sonoma, with a beautiful liberal arts college, Linfield, which we checked out.
Anyway, we're now back at the motel excited that we have HBO so we don't have to miss Entourage this week. So, goodnight all, I'm off to watch the best show on TV right now.
----
----
Oh yeah, here's the link to the new set of photos from the past few days.
Here's the link to the previous set of photos as well, if you missed them.
Friday, August 14, 2009
August 13-14, Medford, Oregon
Lost Coast was a blast. Definitely read Matt's posts below if you missed them.
After we got out back to the car around 3pm, we immediately headed north to Oregon. We drove up the California coast along US 101. More than once we had to rapidly pull over to check out some of the gorgeous views along the way (like the above photo). And somewhere along the way we saw a family of elk just hanging out along the side of the road.
We made it to Medford around 10pm and, after much needed showers, we made a night of it out in Medford which, surprisingly to a Californian, had beautiful night weather.
Right now we're just soaking in the civilization, uploading photos, and figuring out where to stay at Crater Lake (hopefully we can get camping reservations!).
To check out some highlight photos of the last week, check out this photobucket album I just set up here.
After we got out back to the car around 3pm, we immediately headed north to Oregon. We drove up the California coast along US 101. More than once we had to rapidly pull over to check out some of the gorgeous views along the way (like the above photo). And somewhere along the way we saw a family of elk just hanging out along the side of the road.
We made it to Medford around 10pm and, after much needed showers, we made a night of it out in Medford which, surprisingly to a Californian, had beautiful night weather.
Right now we're just soaking in the civilization, uploading photos, and figuring out where to stay at Crater Lake (hopefully we can get camping reservations!).
To check out some highlight photos of the last week, check out this photobucket album I just set up here.
August 13
Again from Medford, Oregon...
After spending Wednesday afternoon on the beach and a delicious meal of "Spaghetti and Meatballs" from REI, we were content to relax in our driftwood palace and watch the meteor shower from a beach that is miles and miles from any artificial light source. Apparently the raccoons, field mice, jack rabbits, and anonymous other animals that kept entering our wide open driftwood shelter also found it a perfect spot to star gaze.
But that was Wednesday. Thursday would be the true test of manhood that would give us both an excuse to partake of the bustling nightlife in Medford, Oregon, as only a weary traveler can.
The hike began with a harmless 3.3 mile walk across the beach that featured fresh bear tracks on the wet sand and a massive family of sea lions barking at us, although this was child's play compared to Rattlesnake Ridge. When we arrived at Buck Creek, we stared directly up at Saddle Mountain, which stands 3,000 feet above the ocean and seemingly right on top of the beach. Luckily, the trail did not waste any time, climbing almost vertically through the dense coastal redwood forest. If our legs did not already burn from 15+ miles of hiking over the previous 2 days, this trek would have been slightly easier. If there would have been any water source between the bottom and the top, it would have been a bit less terrifying. I guess the one positive I can mention is that we were never attacked by bears or rattlesnakes. However, the 3,000 foot vertical hike, without a single flat or downhill portion, was enough. Especially when our inaccurate trail map had us believing we were 1,000 vertical feet behind our true progress for the majority of the hike.
Instead of re-living this experience with a picture of the mountain, I will leave you with a beautiful picture of our 3 mile morning beach hike while spirits were still high. Love the Lost Coast.
August 12
Writing from Medford, Oregon, about to head to Crater Lake. I'm not sure if we'll continue to post updates for each day, but while we have the energy, what the heck... I'm sure our loyal readers will appreciate it.
On Wednesday morning we awoke to realize that we set up our camp right under a bee hive, which was a solid start to the day because it gave us a great excuse to sleep in and let the bees take off for the day's work. After the late start, we began our massive downhill hike from the coastal peaks down to the beach. Our route of choice was along "Rattlesnake Ridge." One might wonder if it gets its name from the 4,983,395 switch backs that give it a snake-like appearance. While this is possible, the 8-foot rattlesnake that scared the crap out of us from 5 feet off the trail may have something to say about it. Luckily, the experience took our minds off the nearly 4,000 foot drop in elevation over 5 miles on the trail that left our toes and knees destroyed. Whoever says downhill hiking is easy is selling something.
This picture was taken as we arrived at the beach, 2 miles after reaching Big Flat Creek and some semblance of a flattened out trail. Considering the voyage it took to get here, it was a beautiful sight. Caley will post several more pictures of the hike and the beach. They're worth a look.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
August 11 entry
around 3pm on Tuesday. We headed toward King Peak and 3 hours and 5
miles (including a 2,300 foot elevation gain) of hiking with 50-60
pound backpacks got us this ridiculous view of the Pacific. King Peak
stands at 4,088 feet above sea level, despite being only a few miles
from the ocean. We camped below the peak near a fresh water source
thoroughly exhasted.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
. . . and we're gone.
Golden Gate as we left. But, nonetheless, we are on our way. We've got
about a four and a half hour drive to Shelter Cove, the trailhead for
the Lost Coast.
-c
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
First post, trip itinerary
Hi friends and family,
So as you may know, my roommate Matt and I are headed out on our post-bar road trip soon. We leave August 11th and we'll be on the road until about October 1st or 2nd. Our itinerary is pretty loose and subject to change as we go. Also, I'm just reciting this schedule from memory, so I might be forgetting some stuff in here, but here's a rough sketch:
Aug 11-14 - Lost Coast, CA
We roll out from SF, headed to the Lost Coast in King Range to go backpack California's coast. This is a really cool trail area. I've been once before back in college and I'm real excited to head get back out there. We'll probably be there two or three days.
Aug 14-17 - Crater Lake, OR
Aug 17-19 - Eugene, Portland, OR
Aug 20-23 - Seattle, Suquamish, WA
We're going up to see our friend, newly minted 9th Circuit clerk Michael Esser in his new place in Seattle and see other friends in the area. And of course we'll have to stop off in Suquamish on our way to Olympic National for some of Grandma Anne's cooking.
Aug 23-25 - Olympic National Park, WA
This place looks awesome. We're likely headed out to Washington's west coast to go back packing and see some more of the Pacific.
Aug 26-30 - Victoria, Vancouver, BC
Taking the ferry from Port Angeles into Canada to see Victoria for a night, then onto Vancouver for the weekend.
Aug 30-Sept 2 - Banff, AB
From Vancouver we go east through Canada to see Banff. I've never been, but I've seen pictures and it looks amazing.
Sept 3-7 - Caley - Portland OR, Matt - Glacier National Park, MT
Probably the only dates that are currently set in stone (because I already bought my tickets from Glacier to Portland and back). Matt and I split up for the weekend. I'm headed out to Portland to hang out with all my college roommates. Matt's staying in Montana in Glacier with some friends.
Sept 7-14 - Glacier National, MT, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, WY
Dates are not totally determined, but what is determined is that we're checking out these three parks before heading to south Utah.
Sept 15-23 - Zion, Bryce, Arches, UT, Mesa Verde, CO, Four Corners, AZ, UT, CO, NM
Another big lump of dates. No set plan on where we're going or when, but we plan on camping all over south Utah and Colorado. We'll probably have to check out Four Corners too, just because we're in the area.
Sept 24-Oct 2 - Grand Canyon, AZ, Sequoia National, Yosemite, CA
So I'm going to have to find out what's the big deal with this huge hole in the ground they call the Grand Canyon. We're going to spend a few days to make sure we get to see the North Rim, which is apparently worth the extra long drive. After that, it's off to Sequoia to drive through a redwood tree, then to Yosemite (which Matt has never seen). If it's open and I've got the energy, I'd like to climb Half Dome.
Oct 3 - Home (GO BEARS!!! BEAT USC!!! And congratulations Alex & Olivia)
Finally home. Matt's off to see the California Bears dominate the spoiled children from Southern California and I'm off to see Alex, who I've known since fourth grade, marry Olivia, who I've known since seventh grade. Great way to finish off an amazing trip.
So while we're on the road, this blog will serve as our trip log, of sorts. We can post updates via iPhone when whenever there's coverage, and when we get internet access, I'll try to post photos as well. I'm also going to get a photobucket account or something to post all the photos.
Anyway, until August 11, I'll be either here in Sacramento or back in SF getting supplies together. Should be excellent!
So as you may know, my roommate Matt and I are headed out on our post-bar road trip soon. We leave August 11th and we'll be on the road until about October 1st or 2nd. Our itinerary is pretty loose and subject to change as we go. Also, I'm just reciting this schedule from memory, so I might be forgetting some stuff in here, but here's a rough sketch:
Aug 11-14 - Lost Coast, CA
We roll out from SF, headed to the Lost Coast in King Range to go backpack California's coast. This is a really cool trail area. I've been once before back in college and I'm real excited to head get back out there. We'll probably be there two or three days.
Aug 14-17 - Crater Lake, OR
Aug 17-19 - Eugene, Portland, OR
Aug 20-23 - Seattle, Suquamish, WA
We're going up to see our friend, newly minted 9th Circuit clerk Michael Esser in his new place in Seattle and see other friends in the area. And of course we'll have to stop off in Suquamish on our way to Olympic National for some of Grandma Anne's cooking.
Aug 23-25 - Olympic National Park, WA
This place looks awesome. We're likely headed out to Washington's west coast to go back packing and see some more of the Pacific.
Aug 26-30 - Victoria, Vancouver, BC
Taking the ferry from Port Angeles into Canada to see Victoria for a night, then onto Vancouver for the weekend.
Aug 30-Sept 2 - Banff, AB
From Vancouver we go east through Canada to see Banff. I've never been, but I've seen pictures and it looks amazing.
Sept 3-7 - Caley - Portland OR, Matt - Glacier National Park, MT
Probably the only dates that are currently set in stone (because I already bought my tickets from Glacier to Portland and back). Matt and I split up for the weekend. I'm headed out to Portland to hang out with all my college roommates. Matt's staying in Montana in Glacier with some friends.
Sept 7-14 - Glacier National, MT, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, WY
Dates are not totally determined, but what is determined is that we're checking out these three parks before heading to south Utah.
Sept 15-23 - Zion, Bryce, Arches, UT, Mesa Verde, CO, Four Corners, AZ, UT, CO, NM
Another big lump of dates. No set plan on where we're going or when, but we plan on camping all over south Utah and Colorado. We'll probably have to check out Four Corners too, just because we're in the area.
Sept 24-Oct 2 - Grand Canyon, AZ, Sequoia National, Yosemite, CA
So I'm going to have to find out what's the big deal with this huge hole in the ground they call the Grand Canyon. We're going to spend a few days to make sure we get to see the North Rim, which is apparently worth the extra long drive. After that, it's off to Sequoia to drive through a redwood tree, then to Yosemite (which Matt has never seen). If it's open and I've got the energy, I'd like to climb Half Dome.
Oct 3 - Home (GO BEARS!!! BEAT USC!!! And congratulations Alex & Olivia)
Finally home. Matt's off to see the California Bears dominate the spoiled children from Southern California and I'm off to see Alex, who I've known since fourth grade, marry Olivia, who I've known since seventh grade. Great way to finish off an amazing trip.
So while we're on the road, this blog will serve as our trip log, of sorts. We can post updates via iPhone when whenever there's coverage, and when we get internet access, I'll try to post photos as well. I'm also going to get a photobucket account or something to post all the photos.
Anyway, until August 11, I'll be either here in Sacramento or back in SF getting supplies together. Should be excellent!
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