July 20 - Best Parts of Oregon So Far

July 20 - Best Parts of Oregon So Far

The Three Sisters Wilderness has to be my favorite part of Oregon so far. I love the high meadows, the long vistas, the streams, and how the trail meanders among the trees and rocks. I also liked that today was mostly mosquito free. 

The sad part of today is that my friends Bill, Monika,  Carlos, and Roberto are all heading into Bend for a few days. Bill is finishing his journey. The others will be back so I may see them again on the trail. 

Alex and Mark are taking it slow for two days before they head back to Minnesota. We left them in their hammocks early this morning. I'll miss their humor. 

On the trail today I met Blaze, Walks with dog, Swiss citizens Cheese and her boyfriend Chocolate, Mike and Moonshadow. I also met many short or day hikers; the most memorable was 81 year old Snail who was hiking to the top of a cinder cone to watch the sunset and sunrise from his tent. Amazing. 

The day is ending in the lava fields of the Jefferson Wilderness. Walking on lava is no fun, let me tell you! The trails are full of ankle busters. It is probably the most inhospitable place I've been hiking. However, it's beautiful in its own way. 

Last pic before they run off to Bend. 

Lots of snow to cross today.  I even glissaded twice!

North Sister in the background. 

The trail ahead. 

Lots of flowers up high. 

Hikingsolo (aka Allen)