Splendid report, Ryan.
My wife, three of my kids, and I made a similar trip one week ago minus the bushwhacking. Because the gravel road was open, the day hiking traffic was quite high for fishermen, even up to some of the lakes you cited. Perhaps the bushwhacking enabled your isolation.
I admire your sub-15 pound pack weight, but why do I compare myself to the master? Our packs were ~22 pounds once loaded with 1.5 liters of water per person and a couple days food in the BV500. Lighter gear was stuck 1,000 miles away in containers at our neighborhood post office which held our priority mail on-site for at least 14 days before delivering it the final two miles during our trip; we made due.
Two of my children are around Chase’s age, and I too wonder how many more trips we will share before other events become their higher priority. I heard not a single complaint during this trip. At times on this hike, I would look at them and be unable to speak. I suspect you know the feeling of being sobered by realizing eventual separation, but also grateful for being remarkably blessed.
Thank you for the report, and for all the instruction you have shared over the years to make our mountain trips enjoyable. Earlier in the week, we hiked a three-day trip that a fellow subscriber recommended, so we continue to benefit from this community you cultivated.
Best regards,
Keith
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