Moms have a tough job. While some of us go to a fancy spa to relax, four of us (two friends, my sister, and myself) chose to hike the Chilkoot Trail, a historic hike which spans two countries.
The scenery was beautiful. I'll never forget the gorgeous blue lakes at Deep Lake or the lovely waterfalls on the way to Canyon City. The archaeological remains along the trail were amazing to behold - shoes, boats, cables, and tin cans...so many things that people left behind to get to gold.
There were also so many challenges. Each of us had our own concerns and fears. My sister was frightened of the Scales, while one of my friends had severe "bear-anoia". The night before summit day was pouring rain and we were told it would be the next day as well. Luckily, it stopped raining the next morning. As we climbed higher and higher to the summit, more snow was visible on the trail. I have never seen an endless field of snow in early July! The climb seemed never ending, but that night at Happy Camp we celebrated with the Canadians at the next table. Hearing them sing their national anthem and pass the champagne gave us reason to celebrate, too.
This hike had such an impact on our group that we have decided to hold an annual "Moms-only Hike." Next summer we plan on hiking Crow's Pass and eventually would like to take on the Grand Canyon.
The scenery was beautiful. I'll never forget the gorgeous blue lakes at Deep Lake or the lovely waterfalls on the way to Canyon City. The archaeological remains along the trail were amazing to behold - shoes, boats, cables, and tin cans...so many things that people left behind to get to gold.
There were also so many challenges. Each of us had our own concerns and fears. My sister was frightened of the Scales, while one of my friends had severe "bear-anoia". The night before summit day was pouring rain and we were told it would be the next day as well. Luckily, it stopped raining the next morning. As we climbed higher and higher to the summit, more snow was visible on the trail. I have never seen an endless field of snow in early July! The climb seemed never ending, but that night at Happy Camp we celebrated with the Canadians at the next table. Hearing them sing their national anthem and pass the champagne gave us reason to celebrate, too.
This hike had such an impact on our group that we have decided to hold an annual "Moms-only Hike." Next summer we plan on hiking Crow's Pass and eventually would like to take on the Grand Canyon.