Episode 63: Day 145-147

Day 145:

Started hiking at 8am. I should be more disciplined about that – didn’t even set an alarm today.

Had some beautiful views early and made it through the dry stretch. Oh, by the way, I PASSED THE 2000 MILE MARK.

After a happy dance, filling up water, and eating lunch, I hiked on through a massive burn section of trail – miles and miles of dead trees. The thing about burn areas is that there is zero shade, so it gets hot.

Met a SOBO who flipped at Ashland and then had dinner at Rockpile Lake.

I have become quite fond of my new mountain friend in this section of trail: Mt. Jefferson. I hear it will be in sight for quite a while. No complaints here – it compares with Mt. Shasta as one of the more iconic ones.

Watched sunset over the burn area I just hiked through. It was both tragic and beautiful. I have to remind myself that just like the day is temporary, so is everything in life. All we can do is embrace the present. I am happy to be here right now.

20 miles today

2000 MILES BABY:

This view:

Burn Area (while in it):

Burn Area (after the climb out):

Fall colors:

Mt. Jefferson:

Sunset:

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Day 146:

Started at 8am again. This time it was on purpose. The view in the morning was nothing short of magical – I could not leave it.

I made it to a crazy fast flowing river, called Russell Creek, and had to cross it. This was not easy folks. I rocked hopped as far as I could and then literally leaned over and fell into a plank position over a gap I wasn’t willing to jump. Then I pulled myself across and shimmied to the other side. Dry feet! I win!

As I climbed, the fall colors became so vibrant. I’m talking all the shades of reds and greens and yellows and oranges (or at least all the shades that I can see). So many open fields and lakes made the views even better.

I got pretty close to Mt. Jefferson towards the end of the day and it was EPIC. Sunset plus low clouds plus high winds made it one of the most unique experiences I have ever had. It honestly felt spiritual. I was both nervous and amazed. As the wind picked up even more, I decided it was time to descend the mountain.

Made camp and called it a day.

19 miles.

Good morning:

Wide View:

More Colors:

What is happening up there?:

Wide View:

End of the day:

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Day 147 (with 4 days off):

I love the sight of Mt. Jefferson in the morning.

So far today, the trail has been downhill coupled with amazing views. I could get used to this.

Met a hiker named Monarch, who said Washington is pretty rainy at this time of year but totally doable.

Arrived at Olallie Lake Resort by 11:30am and called Rick from X-Cabs. I’m heading into town because Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is celebrated on Monday and Tuesday. It’s important to me to be with a congregation for the holiday – I’m heading to Portland!

Thank goodness for Rick because the drive was crazy, only dirt and gravel roads until we reached the highway.

Made it to Chabad of NE Portland, who were gracious enough to host me. Time for some R&R.

8 miles today.

Peak is peeking:

Thanks X-Cab:

Olallie Lake:

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Video (Day 147):