Fort Rock

Past and Present - wave cut terrace and center pivot

Maria and I enjoyed an In a Landscape concert this week inside Fort Rock.  The last time Maria was here, almost 20 years ago, we were fogged in so this was really her first time seeing the place.  For me, Fort Rock is a place that evokes nearly a lifetime of memories.  I felt as if I could see my past self in a distant figure silhouetted along the rim at one point during the concert.  It was a powerful combination of music and place.   

Enjoying the evening concert

 

Zowie Lake

Zowie lake Reflections

My brother was doing a week long backpack in the southern Three Sisters Wilderness lakes region so I came in to meet him for a couple of nights.  We chose Zowie Lake, a small off trail pond that would be easy to find and meet at.  It was a good choice.  Great campsite, nice breeze, few bugs, and no sign of another human.  This place does not get much visitation - a big plus these days.  We spent a day roaming around one of our old stomping grounds; the Mink Lake Basin.  It was a great rendezvous.

Zowie Lake

Our campsite for Two Nights

Cliff Lake Shelter

 

Soap Creek Meadows

Looking up Soap Creek to the North Sister

Escaping the continuing heat, I hiked up to Soap Creek Meadows (7000').  I was also successful in escaping the Fourth of July weekend crowds, had the place to ourselves for two wonderful nights.  When I originally planned this hike, back in the spring, I was skeptical that it would be possible this early in the season, but climate change is making all sorts of things possible these days.  Nevertheless, it was a great trip.

 

Indian Paintbrush

Rapidly Disappearing Thayer Glacier and Unnamed Lake

Verdant Meadows Below North Sister