|
Mt. Chinidere, Mt.
Hood National Forest |
|
Last weekend, as I was on call for work, I wanted to take a trip to Mt. Chinidere, but it had to wait. This weekend, with work finally over, Amber came with me to a place that I have been trying to get to, seemingly forever, in winter. At over 4670 feet, it was an honest hike, and even more so for the little one prancing around at my side. Amber was full of spirit as she thought a pose was required before we set off.
The trail we set off on was more like an old road, gated at it's entrance. It followed the lake around to it's eastern most side where it joined with Herman Creek Trail. The mosquitoes were out in force as they swarmed, not me, but Amber, biting at every chance they could. I applied a little DEET to the swatting machine as it did little to ward the buggers off.
The bugs finally thinned out as we made out way up to the summit of MT. Chinidere while running into more friendly insects. Amber seemed to enjoy the butterflies that followed her up the last portion of the climb and slowed her pace.
After reaching the summit, Amber was not all smiles as she had been on so many other trips. I quickly erected a tarp that would keep the wind off of us so we could eat a bit of lunch. Shortly after arriving, the wind died down and the flies, mosquitoes and gnats returned.
As the wind did not slow for long on this gorgeous day, Amber started to enjoy herself on the summit. From here, the vantage points of all major mountains were visible with detail.
Tomlike Mountain, a place I would like to spend a night, and Mt Adam's, a mountain I would like to summit, was easily in view to the north along with Mt. St. Helens to Adam's left.
To our south, Mt. Hood dominated the landscape as I could easily make out the Cooper and Barrett Spur routes.
With lunch over, I packed up the tarp as we thumped our way down the Wahtum Lake Express Trail, taking our time with frequent breaks. Amber was tired but already asking me about our next trip. I agreed that if it was to be in summer, a trip to REI for some bug proof clothing would be in order.
We made it down past the camp sites rather quickly as Amber wanted to see the log jam at the lake's outlet. She played on the logs while looking into the water for any signs of life.
As many times as I have seen this lake in winter, it does not compare to summer. If you get to the lake on a weekday, or a weekend sporting minimal people, it is quite serene.
|
