On the Mountain

Come along as we go UP to Mt Shasta.

I needed to drop off my son (Foodie) at the trailhead for his 3-day backpacking trip. I always look forward to the scenic drive to Mt. Shasta City, which is about an hour north of us. It's a small, eclectic mountain town that I really enjoy. We'll be driving up on Wednesday afternoon, between 1:30 and 2:30, to pick him up.

From our place, we could tell that our cooler weather had brought the first snow to the Shasta Cascades - both Mt Shasta was covered in a white cape of beauty as well as Mt Lassen to the East. 

Snow levels were around 6,900 ft. 

I had to go up and see the first snow. 

Hold on...

When we make the journey multiple times throughout the year, and no matter how many times I get up there, I am always in awe of this mountain. 

 Mt Shasta - elevation 14,179 (4,322 m)

Many hikers start their journey up the mountain at Bunny Flat. (6,900 ft)

The parking lot was teeming with hikers returning from the trail as the sun dipped low on the horizon. Among the crowd, I struck up a conversation with an elderly gentleman who turned out to be a retired forest ranger. He was cheerfully exchanging pleasantries with everyone as they made their way back to their vehicles. By his side, he had a magnificent large cat named Obie-Wan Kenobi. Despite showing signs of age, it was clear that Obi was enjoying a contented life. The ranger shared with us that he and Obi used to explore these trails together. Observing Obi's peaceful demeanor, it seemed evident that retirement suited him just fine, as he appeared unfazed by the bustle around him, lazily sprawled in the back of the ranger's truck, basking in the invigorating mountain air.

As we ascend 7,000, 8,000, and 9,000 ft, the landscape unfolds beneath us, offering breathtaking panoramic views. 

At this altitude, we have surpassed the tree line, and the scenery is simply spectacular.

It was approximately 4 p.m. in the late afternoon, and the elevation was almost 10,000 feet. Despite the challenging conditions, a scattering of resilient trees persisted at this elevation. 

The temperature was 50 degrees. 

Finally, circling around, and there she is in the distance. 

The rugged mountain formations demand my attention, their towering presence making the surrounding trees seem minuscule in comparison.

I parked the car and stepped out to find beautiful fragrant flowers (lupine) delicately nestled in and around the pristine, glistening snow. It was a breathtaking sight—God's own intricate masterpiece, the Master Landscaper.

This particular area is where many come to take in the spiritual. 

A cool heart made out of rocks. 

The landscape was dotted with several carefully arranged cairns, 

adding a touch of mystique to the scenery.

Rock cairns along trails and in the backcountry should only be made by park rangers, trail maintenance volunteers, or trail creators.  Building cairns for fun could mislead hikers and it leaves a mark on nature. The Leave No Trace principles involve more than just packing out trash. They're about leaving no evidence of your presence and aiming for zero impact on the environment. For example, making rock cairns changes the natural landscape and leaves signs of human activity behind.

After a summer of visiting tourists, it's a shame that people don't understand this. Plus, since it is an area where many spiritual people gather, they have let things slide. I also saw evidence of a huge fire pit!  

I would much rather see the wilderness in its natural form. 

I didn't have my good hiking boots, or we would have gone further up the trail maybe later in the week, before we meet up with my son! 

I thought this site was pretty - wildflowers and mountain views.

I'd love to have a cabin with these views! 

A couple more views of the mountain. 

Time to go - it's around 5:30. 

As I drive back down, I always feel a sense of reluctance to leave.  In the distance, if you look closely, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Lassen beneath the clouds.

Black Butte

Elevation 6,386 ft. (1,931 m) 

In addition to Mt. Shasta, Black Butte is a landmark in the area. Let me indulge my inner geek for a moment. A parasitic cone, also known as an adventive cone or satellite cone, forms independently from the central vent of the main volcano, Mount Shasta, due to eruptive activity from fractures on the volcano's flank, resulting in the accumulation of volcanic material.

As we made our way down the winding mountain road, I captured a photo from inside the car showcasing Black Butte's uniqueness. It really is a huge sight, right off I-5. 

When we finally arrived home, it was 6:45 p.m. I felt rejuvenated and had mental clarity. 

I hope the journey up the mountain and the descent back down were enjoyable for you.

Picture yourself standing at the source of the magnificent Sacramento River, basking in the serene melody of water meandering peacefully by. This tranquil setting encapsulates the river in its nascent form, just before it embarks on its journey through the valley to become one of California's most majestic waterways.

If the video is not working, go to YouTube.

I don't care for the shorts because I cannot embed them in the post. Sorry about that! 

This is where we will pick up my son on Wednesday. 

Take Care,

Debby