Archives for May 2014
Camouflaged
We made our descent into the canyon at a rather rapid rate for all of the rocks we were trekking through. Like a landslide of rocks down into the canyon, the piles upon piles of rocks we were navigating seemed like perfect places for snakes to hang out to me.
I asked if there were no rattlesnakes in the canyon as it seemed that it would be difficult to keep an eye out for rattlesnakes while moving at such a rate. I was told that there most definitely were rattlers in the canyon but told that they don’t attack unless they feel threatened. That wasn’t reassuring; I keep my eyes a little more open so that I didn’t threaten any unsuspecting snakes.
Apparently, the rattlesnakes in the Grand Canyon are PINK! I find it fascinating how animals can make such adaptations in order to blend in. I wanted to see it…kind of.
The opportunity arose when we were camped at Cottonwood Creek. I caught wind of the rattlesnake sighting but decided I’d rather not see it myself. A little bit later, after a few of my trekking companions talked about how cool it was that it was pink, I changed my mind.
Here he is…
Backpacking Bliss
There is a feeling you get when you choose to leave everything behind and go out into the great outdoors. It is empowering. It is freeing. It is backpacking bliss.
Speaking of bliss, I somehow managed to land an overnight permit for Mount Whitney in late June. I’m stoked but a little nervous too.
From what I am reading, there seems to be a high probability that we will encounter some snow on our journey — possibly A LOT of it. This California girl doesn’t ski, or snowboard, so I don’t have much experience with the snow.
If any of you have helpful advice on snow hiking skills, or hiking Mt. Whitney, I’d love to hear it.