As of today, it's been about 11 months since I was injured. I cannot believe how quickly time flies. I wanted to write a quick update before I leave for trail.
WAC:
I finished my climbing class! We had terrible weather for both weekends we attempted Mt. Baker for our graduation climb. On summit day, we woke at 1230a, roped up and headed towards the summit with zero visibility except for the headlights of our team in front. We hit some 35 mph winds and it had been raining on us since the night before. We were completely soaked and frozen head to toe and made the decision to turn around 1300ft shy of the summit. I think I was mainly bummed bc there was not a single view heading up. There were so many rope teams heading up that we were climbing SO slow, so it didn't feel very hard at all.
At base camp on Mt. Baker, we built a great wall that fell over a million times.
We had such pretty views the night before...
Then we climbed in the whiteout for several hours with freezing rain blowing at us all morning, completely soaked from head to toe.
VOLCANOES:
Ever since the class ended, I haven't been able to go on any climbs. Mainly, I was busy with wedding stuff, but I also don't ever really get invited to things, so I kind of have to plan my own trips. But it's hard finding climbing partners that I like that are at my pace, safe and experienced. I'm still a newb, so I wouldn't attempt anything without a lead. I realized that I don't want to climb things with random people just to climb them. It makes it SO much more meaningful with friends you really enjoy being around.
So, my first volcano was Mount Adams with Michelle and Ryan. By far, my favorite climbing partners. We had such an amazing time with perfect conditions.
St. Helens glow from camp.
Mt. Hood so clear!
Ryan and Michelle heading up Pikers Peak.
Summit selfie.
Then this was my last weekend in town and I really wanted to try something a bit more "technical." Adams felt like a hike, and I just didn't feel like it really challenged me. Honestly, I don't think anything I had done has really pushed me since the Tooth. But now, I was ready, especially before I took off for the PCT. As usual, I worry about getting injured everytime I go climbing. I had been day hiking with my friend, Nikki, who is an amazing artist. I realized I really enjoyed hiking with her. She had invited me to El Dorado a few weeks ago but had other commitments. So this weekend she and her bf, Shawn, were headed to Glacier Peak. I immediately said "yes!" I've had my eyes set on that climb for awhile but have heard about the very long approach but the actual climb was not too technical. After finally committing, I was ready.
Scary rock fall on our left heading up when fog finally started burning off.
Crossed my first real crevasse that wasn't five inches or over a large snow bridge.
The pumice walk up to the summit, my fav part.
Shawn, Nikki and I at the summit! It wasn't actually this cloudy, they were coming in and out super fast.
I reached the summit in shorts and so much dirt, silt and snow were glued to my legs.
Amazing sunset from camp after summit day.
Accidentally caught the Aurora on the last night.
Crossed the PCT at White Pass for .5 miles and it was absolutely amazing.
I couldn't have asked for a better last weekend in town by doing my first real climb. I loved the beautiful long approach and it reminded me of how much I enjoy walking all day, day after day. Nothing like carrying 43+ lbs to camp, climbing over 8800 ft and a round trip of 33 miles for great training.
GETTING READY:
My OR and WA boxes!
So this time around, getting ready to go for a long distance hike was NOTHING like last year. I did everything pretty last minute and quickly as time was running out. I made all my OR and WA boxes and already mailed OR out. People keep asking if I'm excited, but I've haven't really had much time to think about. I do know I'm ready though. And after this weekend, my legs feel strong for these long days. However, I am a little nervous about heading out solo. It's kinda like this muscle memory that you need to work so you get more comfortable with. There's a very good chance I'll be doing these sections myself since I have to start out so much slower, but there is no way I am risking any room for injury. All the snow and closures also make me nervous but I just need to get back in again. We climbed the entire route of Glacier Peak without crampons, so I know I am capable with snow travel, I just need to not pysch myself out.
Until next time! I'll be blogging daily from trail again. :)