Growing up in the Gorge I've hiked all my life. It wasn't unusual for us to just go up into the mountains and go until we found our way back out. There is nothing quite like getting away and deep into the forest away from everything else to help restore some of that sense of peace that the work week can rob you of.
I hike a lot of times on my own, as it is usually difficult to get anyone to agree to be on the trail by sunrise. I am, however, more that willing to partner up with others to head out.
As for personal highlights of my hiking career:
I attempted Mt. Adam with a small group. We headed out in the early in the morning and were on the trail ahead of the sun. I underestimated this venture as I was seriously under prepared in the number of calories I would need and had to stop 100 yards shy of the false summit. That said, it was a great learning experience and one of the most beautiful outings I've been on.
Last summer I did the Multnomah to Larch summit on my own. While being a long hike, about 14 round-trip, it was among the most peaceful. The summit is incredibly breathtaking and was an amazing reward for the work.
As for my to-do list this summer:
- -Dog Mountain during the blooms.
- -Mount Defiance.
- -Dog Mountain a second time in under 2.5 hours. Long term I would like to bring that down to 2 hours or less.
- -Mount Defiance.
- -Multnomah to Larch again as soon as the trail opens.
- -Possibly Table Mountain
- -Plus whatever else is brought to my attention.