Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise. It does not, however, make him well-rested. Waking at 4:30 am for this hike reminded me of that old proverb . . . yawn.
Finding 2-3 weeks off of work when I could complete the entire Tahoe Rim Trail seems unlikely, especially with my upcoming nuptials. That being said, I've decided to complete the 165 mile trail in sections over the next year. This morning, Nick and I will knock out a small 12.2 mile section. After stashing Nick’s car at the Spooner Summit Trail head and then driving my jeep to the Kingsbury Grade Trail head, we begin our journey.
While I realize there is a group dedicated to the maintenance of this trail, I’m still very impressed with the amazing trail conditions. That is not to say it is an excessively easy trail, only that finding a misplaced rock or fallen tree seems impossible.
The beauty of Lake Tahoe can be seen along many parts of this eastern section, but never so majestically as the approximate mid-point of this section of the trail. From a flat grass-covered ridge top, the trail offers a sea of green pine, and looking further to the horizon the blueness that is Lake Tahoe; finally culminating in the still snow-covered mountain tops of the Sierra Nevada on the far side . . . breathtaking.
Five or so hours after we sat out and numerous panoramic views later, we arrive back at the Spooner Summit Trail head. 12.2 miles down. 152.8 miles to go!
Having hiked to Lassen Volcanic National Park’s second largest hydro-thermal basin, Devil’s Kitchen, last year, it seemed only fitting to make the trek to the largest this year, while Cass and I were on a camping trip. Although it was mid-August, snow is still abundant in the park and on this trail. This past winter was the harshest since I've been in Reno. Nevertheless, I, along with a number of other adventurous souls made the hike. While some patches were more like cross-country skiing without the skis, the hike wasn't overly difficult, save the snow-packed downhill sections. Those were actually kind of fun.
Upon arriving at the site of the hydro-thermal activity, it was like entering another world, as the sulfur-rich air stung my nose. The ground was lifeless, with the occasionally hot bubbling mud puddle or steam vent. In the center of this alien landscape lay two pools of boiling water; one more blue than the eyes of a Fremen in Frank Herbert’s imagination, and the other, a silky gray, almost silver. The later was the source of a small run-off through the yellow and white desolation. It almost appeared to be a silver-smelting operation.
Continuing along the boardwalk, I was amazed at the scope of this particular basin. I would estimate it to be more than three acres in size - truly a wonder to see. Having reached the end of the trail, I made for the trail head Along the way and after having passed most of the snowpack, I overheard a young boy I passed mention to his father that he hoped for more snow. You’ll have your wish soon enough, my young friend.
