Newberry Caldera

Evening light on Paulina Peak

Finally, after many years of good intent, rode the Newberry Caldera Rim Trail.  It was a cool, damp morning - perfect for riding and gloriously clear air for breathing.  The rim trail is a fun 20 mile loop around Newberry Caldera.  I rode it on mountain bike, but some day will hike it.   

East and Paulina Lakes from Rim Trail

 

The Methow Valley

Goat Peak Hike

Maria and I spent the better part of a week in Mazama, Washington recently.  I was working (remotely) during the day and in the evenings we took in hikes to Goat Peak and Blue Lake.  We also managed to fit in a Saturday hike on the PCT from Harts Pass northward.

The Labor Day 2020 firestorm that has engulfed my Pacific Northwest was in full swing, though we were lucky that there were no fires threatening the Methow while we were there and the smoke was better than most places that week.  Eventually it rolled in and we left.  

Maria at the Goat Peak Lookout

Bob at Blue Lake

Blue Lake

On the Pacific Crest Trail north of Slate Peak

 

White Cloud Peaks, Idaho

Castle Peak

The 202 version of the annual week-long backpack with the guys took me to the White Cloud Peaks in Idaho.   This is a very scenic range, ranking up there with the Wind Rivers and Sierras in my opinion.  Perfect weather, clear blue skis, and great views at every turn made this one of the best trips of them all

Castle Peak from another side

In Big Boulder Basin

Castle Lake