Kay, Kathy, Michael and I did a leisurely snowshoe through the closed Tumwater Campground on a cold, but mostly clear Sunday. It was a first time for all of us but I'm sure we'll do it again as it was magical along the creek and pleasantly level and close to town.
This was a reconnaissance mission to assess snow depth before I schedule any group snow shoes. The conclusion was that a bit more was needed. Nonetheless the magic of this place is not dependent on snow depth. Jolynn, David, and I had a wonderful time in the brilliant sunshine. The first snowshoe outing of the season is always a special experience for me; filled with anticipation of the adventures to come and gratitude for the gift of another year.
Bagely Lake
Jolynn and Dave with Table Mtn. in the background.
This hike will be among the most memorable hikes in a year of memorable hikes. The interesting basalt geology, the solitude, interesting history, and low angle sunlight combined to make this a magical outing.
The old Northrup homestead.
I soloed this hike and I encountered no one else the entire day. I had the canyon to myself. No other cars were at the trail head when I arrived and when I came out. The solitude was wonderful. there was no wind. The calls of a view birds were the only sounds other than my footsteps.
Kay and I were joined by Kathy and Michael to enjoy the sunshine and good visibility from the top of Saddle Rock. We dressed for cold temperatures but had to de-layer as there was no wind and we got warmed up climbing the steep south facing trail up.
Kay, Kathy, and Michael pause to contemplate the view north.
Wenatchee and the Columbia River spread out below us.