July 20, 2012

Greetings from the Glacier Peak Wilderness! I am currently writing this entry in my tent which is situated in Snow Brushy Meadows. The meadow is just starting to get some color as Indian Paintbrush, Phlox, Bluebells, Dandelions and Columbine are all slowly blooming across the tall green grasses. I have become obsessed with taking pictures of these flowers.

It’s the first day of my first solo patrol. Previously Adam and I have gone out together to get comfortable with the job and the land. Already I find myself wanting to say “Hey check out my bear hang, it just took two tries to get it up there!” or “What flower do you think this is?”. Then I remember that I’m alone now. There are no people around here for a few miles. I’ve never gone camping by myself. It’s such a new experience. I am definitely enjoying the solitude though. The meadow is a great place to have to yourself and do some reflecting.

I do know that I will be talking Adam’s ear off when we reunite.
I am going to continue this entry near the end of this hitch.

July 15, 2012

There was a huge thunderstorm yesterday. I was hiking to Entiat Meadows and I was able to set up camp just in time before it started pouring. It was pretty cool to hear the thunder echo down the valley. The storm was right overhead. I actually saw a lightning bolt hit down in the valley a mile or two ahead of me on the trail.

I just got back from my day hike to Entiat Glacier. Wow. It is absolutely breathtaking. It’s safe to say it’s my new favorite spot. I can’t wait to go back. I think the fact that I had this entire place to myself, besides the many marmots, adds to to the beauty and wildness of this area. The glacier itself is quite large and most of it was still covered with a good layer of snow. Seven Fingered Jack is a ridge that marks the beginning of the Entiat Valley. I also got to see the headwaters of the Entiat River.

 

I scurried up a scree pile that was below the glacier and noticed some storm clouds slowly making their way towards me. I climbed back down and started my three mile trek back to camp. I only got a half of a mile and it started thundering and lightning. I hid in a patch of forest and started on my way again when it seemed safe. As soon as I did, the hail started. I just laughed because everyone was talking about how we would have nice weather out on our first solo hitch. I took cover when the hail got as big as gum balls. It lasted two hours and now I am here in my tent warming my bones.

I have now hiked the entire Entiat River Trail #1400. It’s a hike through lush forests, colorful meadows, and ends with the glacier and the jagged snow-covered peaks of Seven Fingered Jack and Mt. Maud. The entire trail runs along the Entiat River, which is filled of fast flowing water and rapids. A truly wild wilderness that will demand your respect. Come visit!

Rachel