..Going Full Circle

In 2006, having no available partners, I made a crossing of the Ptarmigan Traverse with a self-propelled return. This combined over 100 miles of ridges, rivers, glaciers, and roads. Since then, the idea of this type of adventure has appealed to me. Not only does it combine several of the sports I love, but when you are transported at more humanly paces – not by auto, train or plane – you get to ‘smell the roses’. It’s like eating cake and ice cream, too!

Another North Cascade traverse from Mount Watson to Blum appeared perfect for this sort of outing. At least that’s what was on my mind as I rushed down from the Alpine Lakes (link) back to my house to immediately pack for 9 more days. Before much rest my kayak, bike and all my hiking gear was crammed into my car, my last few dollars into its gas tank, and I was driving into the mountains once again. It was then, I realized, half of everything I own is continuously going in and out of my car. A laugh overtook me, though, because it's more like continuous cycles from washing machine to car, but nevertheless, I’ve rarely been home for 5 months. There’s no complaining coming from me. Everyone needs a break. While a bit cliché, one climber I met along the way submitted this, “Mountains keep men honest.” I like that. My time in such high places has certainly kept me from deceiving myself. I know what I want and I'm out there doing it.

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