Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Backpacking in the Russian Wilderness

Last winter Scott and Jamie suggested that we go backpacking together in August; that plan resulted in the great trip you see pictured here. We spent 8-5 to 8-7 in the Russian Wilderness which we accessed from the Deacon Lee trail head. From the th. we hiked four miles into a group of lakes (Waterdog, Gold Russian, Lower Russian, and Russian) to establish our camp at Russian Lake.
Views on the hike in...



The Russian Wilderness was incredible. Many of the lakes had large newt populations in addition to brook and rainbow trout. We were surrounded by granite and marble. The wildflowers were impressive for early August. Russian Lake was swimable.



This is a view of Russian Lake from the peaks separating it from Siphon Lake. Ross and I scrambled up to enjoy the views. Our camp is down in the forest background portion of this photo.


Enjoying the views of the southern part of the wilderness from another peak near camp.


A group photo before we broke camp and hiked out. Scott and Jamie hiked back along the Deacon Lee trail while Ross and I hike out along the PCT (thanks to S&J for setting the shuttle).
Thanks S&J for planning a memorable trip!

Monday, August 8, 2011

July-August B-day Celebration in Davis


The weekend of July 30th, we gathered in Davis to celebrate the July-August family birthdays: Mumphie, Peg, Ross, Scott, and Katya. Mike and Amanda graciously opened their home to a big crowd. We spent Saturday afternoon at the Davis pool. Then Mike bbq'ed and Amanda prepared several delicious salads. Dinner was followed by present opening and cake.

Kurt is wearing Ross's nerd straps (pant cuff holders) on his head below.



Pool time fun...





Sunday morning we all walked to the park after breakfast to watch Mike launch rockets and play before we all headed off in separate directions.



Katya with the Talls

Sorry I can't rotate the image.