Timberline to Timothy

Day 22 . July 16

We perfected our ability to lollygag. At least this time there was intent. We had resupply packages waiting for us. So we gathered at the Lodge, waited until a small cafeteria opened and spent money on bad food. The customer service center opened at 8.

It was amazing how many people were skiing in July. A huge percentage were kids. Perhaps the covid stay-at-home order had built up some tension where both parents and children agreed skiing might be good for all parties.

Finally, we packed our resupply. I received a great note from my wife which was a tremendous mood lift. After we finished, we went back down to the lodge to get rid of trash and started hiking.

At first we were above the line where trees don’t really grow. My astute readers, both of you, will have surmised Timberline Lodge was at this point. The walking was mostly on sand and silt built up from glacial and seasonal snow grinding against the mountain.

Later, we descended to more forested cover with a pleasant trail. Our group was getting a little spread out. Brad turned to be like a wind-up toy; if he was in the lead he would use his long stride to just keep cruising.

At a clearing near a trailhead, I could see an older gentleman pacing near a picnic table where his wife and granddaughter sat. As I approached, he asked “Are you a PCT hiker?” I confirmed I was and he asked if he could take my picture. He did. He said thanks. We parted company. It was awkward. Later, I asked the other three if they encountered the guy and they had not. Strange. Paparazzi can be like that.

Toward the end of the day, we got glimpses of Mt Jefferson. Going from damp, cloudy Washington to seeing new beautiful mountains was a huge improvement. Late in the day we eventually made it to Timothy Lake.