Dr. Joy Yu

Miller Peak Iron Bear Loop

2011-10-18T03:54:00.000-07:00

From reading kuresman.com, Miller Peak loop is one of his favorite hike. So I decided to do the loop. We have a new foster, Champ. He has been hiking last 2 weeks, and hopefully he would enjoy the hike.

Blue at the Miller Peak

Champ and Blue at the Miller Peak

Champ an Sly at the Miller Peak

Champ and Sly want me to throw a stick.

Trio at the Iron Bear Peak

Champ at the Iron Bear Peak

Champ had a wonderful time. He relied on Blue's lead. He will be a fine hiker.

I checked off the Miller Peak and moved it to the Do Not Repeat list. The trail is shared by humans, horses, motor cycles, and cattle. There were so many piles of big dark green pudgy piles of cattle poop up to about 5000 ft high. It is unavoidable to step on the poop. No wonder there were no hikers. On the way back, 2 herds of black cattle were ahead of us. So Blue had to stay behind me, and of course Champ was in leash but trying to herd the cattle.

Kendall Peak, Katwalk, and Toru on September 4, 2011

2011-10-18T02:50:00.000-07:00

Toru came to visit from Yokohama. This is his first visit to the United States. We took him to a tourist attraction.

Going to Kendall Peak. Toru is down there making his way up to the Kendall Peak.

Almost at the Peak

Toru made it!

Toru holding Mountaineers' Registry. Mount Thomson behind.

Toru resting at the top with Mount Rainier in the back ground

Mountaineer's Registry

Blue at the top

Blue investigating the Peak

What's down there?

This is Blue's second hike to the Kendall Peak

Blue is happy

Toru and Blue at the Peak

Toru on Kendall Katwalk. We did the Peak first and then the Katwalk, just about a mile from the Peak.

Finished the hike. Toru at the trail head. Toru will work on his endurance and strength. Next year, I want to take him to another tourist attraction, Rampart Lakes through Rocky Run.

Beverly-Bean Creek Loop

2011-10-16T09:46:00.000-07:00

We did this hike on August 14, 2011. It turned out to be a bigger hike than I planned. I usually plan a hike from looking at maps and reading trip reports from wta.org, nwhikers.net, and summitpost.org. Sometimes my plan is accurate. Other times I am off. This hike, I was off by 2 miles and whopping 2000 ft. We went over 4 passes, 16 miles, and 5600 feet in 10 hours.

I-90 East to Cle Elum, off exit 85. Cross over the freeway overpass and turn north on 970. Cross the Teanaway River bridge. In about a mile, turn left (North) onto Teanaway Road. It becomes North Fork Teanaway Road. Pass the campground on the left and continue on the unpaved Forest Road 9737. Continue another 4 miles, then turn right (East) onto 9737-112 Beverly Creek. The road ends in about 1.4 miles which is the Beverly Creek trail head. 2 hours drive from Issaquah. There was a warning sign at the trail head about ornery goats blocking the trail. I have only seen them from a distance and hope to meet them close by.

Blue on his way to the Bean Peak

Elcee on her way to the Bean Peak

At the Bean Peak with Navaho Peak in the back ground. We will be going through the Navaho Pass.

In front of the Volcanic Neck

Elcee found snow

She eats it, slides it, and rubs on it.

Blue and Elcee on a patch of snow

Saddle between Bean Peak and Volcanic Neck

We have to go down the slippery sandy down hill

High tech communication in the back country. A hiker left a message for his/her party.

Without the cairns, it is hard to find a boot path. It was a pleasant walk in the meadows until another slippery steep hike up to the second pass

Sly and Blue at the second pass. We went down the hill on the right to go through the Navaho Pass

Navaho Pass and County Line Trail

Blue taking a break, a rare sight. He never takes a break during hikes

At the Bean Pass. Elcee too is tired.

This is Elcee's last hike with us.

Elcee went home the next day on Sunday. She now lives in Spokane with her new humans. She has a very good life there. We miss her a lot.

Kendall Peak

2011-01-20T15:49:00.000-08:00

On October 3rd, 2010, we finally went to Kendall Peak. I hiked the Kendall Katwalk many times but this was the first time for the Peak. I-90 east, exit 52. At the end of the ramp, turn left and go under the freeway. In 100 yards, turn right into the PCT parking lot. Kendall Katwalk is very crowded during summer and well hiked even in winter. At 5200 ft, look for a big tree stump on the left and on the right is a faint boot path. The turn off to the peak is easily missed. Car to car: 6 hours. Total miles: 11.6. Grade 2 scramble. Elevation gain: 2797 ft. High point: 5784 ft.

Blue at the peak with Mt. Rainier behind.

Blue looking down. Lundin Peak on the left and Red Mountain in the middle.

Blue

Sly and Mount Thomson behind

Lundin Peak

Blue in the cloud

It was a decent hike. Gradual ascent, well maintained trail, and some rocky areas. It is a part of the Pacific Crest Trail. You can continue to the Kendall Katwalk and to the Ridge Lake and beyone. I have done up to the Ridge Lake (16+ miles RT). But I avoid this hike during summer becasue it is very popular. On this day, I only saw a few people. It was windy and cloudy with sprinkles. Wind moved the thick cloud so fast that view changed every minute. Peaks hid under the cloud in one moment and poking out in another. Kendall Peak so reachable and views so grand, it was an awesome hike.

Middle Fork of Snoqualmie River

2011-01-13T16:43:00.000-08:00

We were going to go to Kendall Peak Lakes. Due to heavy snow showers in the morning, chains were required except all wheel drive. When we got to the Mason Lake exit (exit 45), I-90 was a parking lot! 2 right lanes were occupied by the people putting chains on. So plan was changed, and we headed to the Middle Fork. From Seattle, I-90 East, exit 34, turn left to 468th st. Turn right to Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rd. First 4 miles are paved. Next 8 miles are not, and there were 2,934 pot holes, 17 more than last year.

Trail head parking lot was empty.

Beautiful Bridge at the trail head

KT, our new foster, at the bridge. Isn't she pretty?

KT is about 4 years old. She came from Lakeview, Oregon. She was saved 2 hours before her euth time. It was close. She is sweet and affectionate. She will make a very good pet for someone very special.

KT loves to go hiking and snowshoeing. She snowshoes without snowshoes.

Blue in snow shower

Blue and Sly

The bridge at the Cripple Creek was damaged. A tall tree has fallen on the bridge and the railings were damaged on both sides.

Blue inspecting the damage

Sly at the Cripple Creek

Trio at the Middle Fork

KT at the Middle Fork

There were many blowdowns. I counted 26 blowdowns where I had to go over, under, or around the downed trees. It showered all day, but scenery was breath taking. Dogs were tired, I was tired, and we all had a grand time.

Lundin Peak, Red Pass, Commonwealth Basin, Red Pond, and Mick

2010-09-19T13:01:00.000-07:00

Lundin Peak, Red Pass

I-90 East, Exit 52 (Snoqualmie Pass West). At the end of the ramp, turn left (north) and go under freeway. In about 100yeards, take the first right to the PCT trailhead. 25 yards past the outhouse, take the second left trail which is unmarked and brushy. This part of the trail is unmaintained but is in great shape. Most people will go straight to go to the crowded Kendall Katwalk. Today, we are headed to the Red Pass and Lundin Peak. 7.65 miles RT, elevation gain 2732'. Vey nice maintained trail with switch backs was luxurious compared to the straight-up trails we did last 3 hikes. Ran into a few people but not too crowded. Did meet a ranger who threatened to fine $125 per dog.

Blue at Lundin Peak

Fearless Mick, our new foster boy, is in leash because he might jump off the cliff. Isn't he handsome?

Blue and Mick

Handsome Mick with the Red Mountain behind.

Mick is 2.9137-year-old high energy real deal border collie. He came from a Spokane shelter because his time was up and no one came for him.

On the way back, we stopped at the Red Pond for hydration.

Blue at the Red Pond.

I feel so lucky because we evaded rain. I was prepared with a refuse collection bag (improvised raincoat), umbrella, and waterproof jacket. But sun was out most of the time, and I wished I had sunscreen. It was a luxurous hike compared to the Kaleetan Peak, Alta Mountain, and Rampart Ridge/Lakes. Maintained switchbacks are so kind to the knees. Other than being scolded by a ranger, it was a pleasant hike, and as usual dogs were quiet after the hike.

Lodge Lake / Rockdale Creek

2010-06-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 5, 2010, we hiked to the Lodge Lake and Rockdale Creek. I-90 East, exit 52, turn right to Alpental West Summit / Snoqualmie Pass West. Turn right again onto the dirt road. Park at the far end of the road, where you will see the sign "Pacific Crest Trail." It was a nice sunny day with no one else on the trail.

Blue at the Beaver Lake

Misha loves snow.

Sly at the Lodge Lake

All 3 on a log in Lodge Lake. Misha fell into the water.

Misha is not so crazy about water and got out in a hurry.

We continued on to the Rockdale Creek.

The creek was full and over-flowing. The dogs didn't mind. I have to build a bridge, cross on bare feet, or turn around. The area was rocky, and no down tree branches were around. Rocks were too heavy. And I really didn't want my feet wet. So we decided to take lunch there.

Misha couldn't quite keep up with the boys. Can you see her droopy eyes?

Misha is really pooped.

Sly and Misha doing some trail maintenance.

Dogs really enjoyed the trail all to themselves. It was only about 8 mile easy hike on a warm sunny day. We started on ski runs under the lifts and walked for about 0.75 miles to the Beaver Lake. It was a little confusing to find the trail because there was no sign. Once pass the Beaver Lake, trail is mostly down hill for 1.5 miles to the Lodge Lake. Trail has become a creek bed from melting snow, and there was no shortage of dog water. Once pass the Lodge Lake, trail is pleasantly soft and dry. It gets rocky approaching Rockdale Creek. This trail will make a nice snow shoeing hike in winter.

Rattle Snake Mountain

2010-06-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

Rattle Snake Mountain was crowded with people and dogs. The trail is well maintained. I will save this hike for week days and winter. I-90 East, Exit 27. Turn right at the end of the ramp and drive 1/4 mile. You will see the trail sign for the Snoqualmie Point. We started here and walked up to the East Peak. About 12 miles RT of easy gentle climbing. It was a cloudy day, and we finished just in time before rain.

Blue with cloudy Mt. Si in the back.

You can walk all the way to the Rattle Snake Lake. From Snoqualmie Point, it will be 21 mile RT. We just hiked to the East Peak.

Sly

Misha

Misha is happy. It was a good endurance building hike for Misha. Nice gentle uphill for building the atrophied thigh muscles. She needs to get strong for bush-whaking hikes this summer.

KELSEY 1993 - 2010

2010-05-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

Kelsy retired from hiking in 2008. Her joints were huge, and she was in pain. But she could tell you all about Washington State trails - in detail.

Hiking Bandera Mountain in 2007.

Hiking Cathedral Rock with Blue.

Mason Lake, one of her last hikes.

Kelsey crossed the Rainbow Bridge. She was buried near May Creek next to JJ.

KELSEY 1993 - 2010

Misha

2010-05-26T07:02:00.000-07:00

On day 1 and 2, Misha barked and whined for 23 hours and 59 minutes. On day 3 and 4, she barked and whined for 22 hours and 47 minutes. I was optimistic! She is calming down a little each day. I have not decided whether I should take on this project of working with Misha. A gifted trainer is coming on Monday to evaluate. After his evaluation of Misha, I will make a decision.

On the way to Kamikaze Fall

Misha has a ball OCD.

Even when she is tired, she can't let go of her ball.

She has no endurance, yet. Resting on a cool spot.

In the back yard

Posing in front of Rhoddies

Pratt Lake

2009-12-25T09:27:00.000-08:00

Tail head to Pratt Lake was plowed, and we took advantage of it. It is always a treat to be able to drive to the trail head and park at the parking lot. Usually in the middle of the winter, I have to park way far from the trailhead. Snowshoeing from the free way to the trailhead is itself a workout.

There are many creek crossings on Pratt Lake trail. One of the creeks is all frozen. I had to put on yaktrax.

Be careful.

Snowy creek crossing. Audrey is having a sip of ice water.

Olallie Lake, looking down from the Pratt Lake trail. We save it for others because it's a popular shorter easier hike.

Princess Audrey

We are at the fork. You can go straight to the ridge and then to the Island/Rainbow Lakes (they are a couple of little dinky mosquito ponds) or go right down to the Pratt Lake. Can you see the signs? On the left is the sign for the Island/Rainbow Lakes. On the right is for Pratt Lake. There was no foot/shoe prints on the way down. And I didn't have snow shoes. So we decided to go straight.

At the Ridge: we decided to take lunch. Again there was no foot/shoe prints beyond this point. I sank 2-3 feet every other step and slipped on every other step. Next hike, I'll be sure to pack snow shoes.

Snow is soft and wet and deep. It was hard to maneuver.

Sly looking all cute and hansome.

Audrey, the Princess of the Mountain.

Blue dripping melted snow.

Trio At the Ridge

It's an old man's country. Can you see his beard?

Usnea barbata (old man's beard) is a tree lichen. It grows on tree branches in wet wooded areas. I also see them grow on tree trunks. They are used for their antimicrobial and immune stimulating properties. I have made tincutre from the one I harvested on the trail from Melakwa Lake to Lake Tuscohotchie. It requires high alcohol menstruum. Before you use it, be sure to consult your nanturopathic doctor.

We hiked on Saturday, December 19th. The weather was forecasted to be mostly dry with rain in the evening. But it turned out to be drizzly all day. I don't think dogs noticed the drizzle at all.

Business as usual

2009-12-15T12:15:00.000-08:00

Audrey is recovering well and gained 3 lbs, weighing 63 lbs. Ribs and spines are not that obvious any more. She, of course, had to get a bath to get the stinky poop cake off her back and neck. Bath is not her favorite activity but she tolerates.

Clean and shiny Audrey invited Blue to tug.

Nope, she wants to chew it now.

Audrey got another rope toy from the toy box. Of course, Blue wants it.

Hiked to Tiger Mountain.

Hiked to McCllelan Butte.

McCllelan Butte trail: it's all frozen.

On the way from Gold Creek trail.

Snooze time after warm milk.

Life as usual. As if nothing happened. It's all good now.

Audrey is found!!!

2009-12-10T08:41:00.000-08:00

I placed the posters on Sunday. On Monday, I got a call from Debbie. BJ got a call from someone who saw the poster and said Audrey was in her trailer park eating the foods left out for racoons. Mike also got a call. Debbie is a Mike's neighbor and has a chocolate lab. The chocolate lab is the mother of Mike's Wolfie. They live a few blocks from Mike.

I asked Debbie to put food and water in the kennel. Audrey was very interested in food but would not go into the kennel. BJ took a half day off and went to Enumclaw hoping Audrey would hang around. By the time BJ got there, Audrey moved on to another neighbor's house hiding behind bushes.

"Audrey, Audrey good girl, come here Audrey."

THERE

CAME AUDREY

FURIOUSLY WAGGING HER TAIL!!!

Very thin with obvious grooves between ribs and spines. Walking on all 4 paws, no obvious injuries, and no bleeding anywhere. Alive and breathing. Stinky with caked elk poop on her back and neck, exhausted Audrey hopped on to the car and plopped down on the seat.

Thank you angels. Thank you for returning Audrey in one piece.

Audrey Search

2009-11-30T05:47:00.000-08:00

It is not going to be a quick search, and I need different strategies. Went to office supply store and bought 10 giant posters (neon green on one side and hot pink on the other), black permanent markers, stencil sets, plastic to cover the posters, clear plastic pockets, clear packaging tape, and 100 copies of Audrey's color picture. Cut the old molding into 5-foot posts and cross boards. Got the staple gun out. Did I miss anything? Printed phone numbers in 144 font size. It took me all day Friday and Saturday to make the signs.

I picked these 2 pictures because I want people to see what Audrey looks like with minimal distraction.

Audrey on Augsut 10th, the day she came to our house. She fetched along with the boys.

Audrey at Surprise Lake. We went there on September 20th. She loves water. A graceful and strong swimmer. I fantasized her being a dock diving dog. See Surprise Lake & Glacier Lake.

On Sunday, I went back to Enumclaw: Issaquah-Hobart Road to 18 to 169 to 164, and to 410. Placed the giant posters in strategic intersections, stapled brochures on trees and poles, knocked on doors, talked to people, drove around, went to the fair ground, walked in the golf course, went back to Mud Mountain Dam and walked around the area, and went wherever Audrey sightings were. Scattered Blue's hair and pre-cut pieces of Audrey's rope toys. Wiped my hands off here and there, hoping to disperse dead skin cells. Audrey, where are you?

Drove back 410 to 164 to 169 to 18 to Issaquah-hobart Road, back home without Audrey. It is Sunday today. Audrey has been on her own for 7 nights. Is she safe? Where is she sleeping? Is she staying out of rain and frost? She must be hungry, terrified, confused.... if she is still alive. Time for another discussion with angels.

Lost in Enumclaw

2009-11-28T19:45:00.000-08:00

Audrey went to her new home. Nice couple and 2 other dogs in a rural area, I thought ,would be good for Audrey. After 2 sleepless nights (you know you get those feelings), I sent them an email (3am I think). And called them later in the morning.

Mike called me back and told me Audrey escaped and hasn't been back. Immediately, I got on the car and drove to Enumclaw. She's got to be there nearby. She is too scared to run away. I called "Audreyeeeeeeeeee" over and over and over around the neighborhood for hours until my vocal cord gave up. Then I drove around in desperation. How could she be lost? She is my precious Audrey! How can this be happening? It's Tuesday today and it's dark. I couldn't see the road very well driving back home.

At work, I share my passion for dogs with many of my clients. On Wednesday, one of my clients asked me about Audrey. If I utter one word, I would just break down so I jsut said, "Don't ask, please."

Trying to figure out how I would find her, I retained a search and rescue. He will meet me in Enumclaw tomorrow, Thursday at 1pm. He has 2 dogs.

On Thursday, I met him and his 2 dogs near Mike's house (Audrey's new person). And off we went in search of Audrey. His name is Harry Oakes in Longview, WA. Don't ever hire him. He is an idiot. He does not search on foot. He drives a distance, let his dogs out and sniff, then drive some more, and get his dogs out to sniff. He did that for 2 hours all the way to Buckley, WA. Buckley is a city adjacent to Enumclaw. He said Audrey went to Buckley!!! Incredible. Audrey is skittish and would not venture out too far. How could she be in Buckley? Did someone pick her up? Can't be. She won't let any stranger pick her up. Did she ........? The only way she would be in Buckley is ...... OMG ohhhh my.......

I am determined to find her. I will not give up until I find her or confirm her death. Called the animal control lost and found hotline, nothing matching Audrey. Went to Kent shelter, no Audrey. Stephanie will check the shelter for me regularly. Faxed Audrey's picture to Humane Society.

Surprise Lake & Glacier Lake

2009-10-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

From I-90, turn on to 405 North and drive 13 miles. Take exit #23 Bothell/Woodinville Highway 522 East and drive 14 miles. Left on to Highway 2 (522 loops over Highway 2). Drive 35 miles on Highway 2. (From Skykomish exit, it's 10 miles to the dirt road) When you see an overpass, turn right (south) onto a dirt road (before overpass and before railroad trestle). Drive across the railroad and turn right to the trailhead. Turnoff to the dirt road is very inconspicuous and easy to miss. When you see the big sign for "Iron Goat Trail," start looking for the open area on the right. 11 miles round trip to Glacier Lake. Elevation gain 3000 feet.

Surprise Lake: the trail to the Surprise Lake follows the Surprise Creek, and there are plenty of water for thirsty dogs. We met katie, 9-year-old red female border collie.

Audrey at Surprise Lake

Glacier Lake is just another mile from the Surprise Lake. It's a much bigger lake. I didn't sees anyone at the Glacier Lake. Water was blue and cold, but dogs had to go swimming.

Blue at Glacier Lake

Sly

Princess Audrey

Hypericum perforatum: probably the last of the year. They were still flowering in sunny areas. But most have seeded.

It was a long drive to the trailhead. And trailhead was hard to find. I went there on Sunday, Septmber 20. On the way back, traffic in Monroe was bumper to bumper on Sunday evening. If I were to go back, I would do it on Saturday. Nontheless, it was another great hike with stunning views, few hikers, and happy border collies.

Audrey Hepburn Available for Adoption

2009-09-19T21:22:00.000-07:00

Princess Audrey is set out to find her new person. The special person who would be her leader whom she will adore and worship.

Her last persons loved her very much, put her through school, and hired a dog walker to go swimming with Audrey. Audrey in return tried very hard to protect her people which was not appreciated. So she came here, and she is having grand time with brothers Blue and Sly.

Audrey at 3 months. Isn't she cute? She used to be called Bug then.

Audrey just turned 2 and all grown up, almost. Isn't she gorgeous? The most beautiful female dog in the planet.

Audrey likes to fetch a ball. Got Chuckit?

Audrey likes to fetch a frisbee. Waiting for a "Release" command.

Audrey likes to go hiking. She hiked to Silver Peak.

Audrey hiked to Rampart Lakes. She loves to swim in a lake. Whenever she sees water, she runs and gets her paws wet. Here in one of the ponds, she fetched a branch.

If you are looking for a special companion, don't let this magnificent being get away. Audrey needs a leader, someone who enjoys doing dogstuff, who will provide life experience, and who will help her grow up to be a confident companion.

If you are that special person, please click on the link AUDREY'S ADOPTION APPLICATION.

Silver Peak

2009-09-15T22:08:00.000-07:00

From Seattle, I-90 east, exit 54. At the end of the ramp, check the mile and turn right and then left at the 2nd left. Pass vacation homes and public works buildings. The road turns to gravel and becomes Forest Road 9070. Go left at the T. At 3.5 miles from the ramp is a hairpin turn and a small parking space on the right. Left is the trail head for Twin Lakes, Mirror Lake, Cottonwood Lake, and Silver Peak. For shorter hike, continue on the gravel forest service road to the Windy Pass. From Windy Pass, walk 2 miles to the turn-off and another mile of very steep hike and then the scramble to the Silver Peak (5600').

This hike, I drove to the Windy Pass, a very popular blueberry picking spot, and hiked on the Pacific Crest Trail. I looked for the inconspicuous turn-off to the Silver Peak and managed to find it!

There is a trail somewhere.

Blue and Audrey found it.

Audrey at the Peak: it is a true peak like Mount Defiance. You have a 360 degree view.

Blue on the scramble.

Looking down from the Peak

On the way down, dogs grazed on blueberries.

They were real yummy. Blueberry bushes on high altitude are short. At the MeClellan Butte, I have seen one 2 inches tall with one big juicy sweet berry! Bushes on the Silver Peak (5603' elevation) were a little taller, anywhere from 4 inches to 1 foot with a few berries in each bush. Of course at lower altitude, bushes were taller, about 2 feet, with lot more berries.

Trail is steep and rocky. We saw one other bossie (BC-Aussie X) at the peak. There were more hikers than I expected to see for the rocky trail. Perhaps the name Silver Peak attracts hikers. View was spectacular. Princess Audrey had a minor cut on her left rear paw but nothing major. As usual, dogs were at their best on the way home: sleep.

Rampart Lakes

2009-09-12T21:13:00.000-07:00

From Seattle, take I-90 east to exit 62. Turn left from the exit ramp and drive northeast on Kachess Lake Road (Forest Road 49). Follow the signs to Lake Kachess Campground. Turn left on FR 4930 and drive 4 miles to a large parking. From the trailhead, it's 4 miles to the popular Rachel Lake and another mile to the Rampart Lakes. Trail starts out fairly flat. Last mile to the Rachel Lake is steep, very rocky and rooty. Most elevation gain is in the last mile to Rachel Lake and another mile to the Rampart Ridge. Total elevation to the Rachel lake is 1600' and to the Rampart Ridge is about 2600'.

The trail probably would not make it as one of the best hikes for dogs because it's fairly popular. Weekday hiking is better for dogs and solitude seekers.

Rachel Lake

On the Rampart Ridge

Rampart Lakes are cool blue ponds of various sizes nestled in the granite basin atop the ridge. The view is one of the rare feast for eyes.

Great place for dogs and humans. Sly fetched a stick.

Blue wants it.

Audrey went and got her own stick.

Dogs went swimming in every pot-hole they can get their paws wet. Sun was brilliant, water was blue, and cool breeze refreshing. Another grand day in the mountain with the dogs.

Mirror Lake / Silver Peak

2009-09-02T20:36:00.000-07:00

From Seattle, I-90 east to exit 54. At the end of the ramp, check the mile and turn right and 2nd left. Pass vacation homes and public works buildings. The road turns to gravel and becomes Forest Road 9070. At 3.5 miles from the ramp is a hairpin turn and a small parking space on the right. Left is the trail head for Twin Lakes, Mirror Lake, Cottonwood Lake, and Silver Peak.

We went to the Twin Lakes first. Of course dogs had to play in the water.

On the way to the Silver Peak, we came across a patch of devils club (Oplopanax horridus) on the side of a steep narrow trail. Don't grab them for support because they have thorns. Lots of them.

Mirror Lake
Sly's first swim ever. He even fetched a stick.

We missed a turnoff to Silver Peak and continued on the Pacific Crest Trail. Blue spotted a small pond to quench his thirst.

We went to the Windy Pass and turned around. We will have to attempt again next time and find our way to the Silver Peak.

It was a nice hike, not very many people, and sunny. When we came home, Blue had a bath, drank warm milk, and relaxed.

Audrey Hepburn

2009-08-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

Audrey is tall, slender, and beautiful. She came on Sunday, August 10th. Her people loved her very much, and Audrey adored them. She was given up because she was too protective. For short 7 days in my pack, Audrey has not had a chance to display dominant behavior. Instead, she is accepting my leadership beautifully. She does what is told. She learns everything so quickly. Obviously very intelligent.

Isn't she gorrrrrrgeous?

Audrey waits for "Release" command for her frisbee.More pictures coming later. If you know anyone who is interested in adopting Audrey, please send me an email. Her new people must display confident leadership at all times.

Sarah's New Home

2009-08-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

Sarah found her new home! She came from Idaho on April 17th and spent 3 months with us fetching, playing, hiking, and learning to be a dog.

Sarah loved fetching a frisbee.

Sarah was a ball nut.

Sarah enjoyed playing tug with big brother Blue.

We hiked on an unmarked, unmaintained trail.

We hiked to Poo Poo Point.

Sarah is intelligent and intense. She also steals heart.

We miss her very much and are happy for her.

Her new people adore her, and sarah goes everywhere with them.

Mount Defiance

2009-07-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

Ira Springs forest service road was badly damaged last winter. Recently, all the major washouts have been repaired, and 4-wheel drive was not needed. There are 2 major damages on the trail to Mason Lake. It may not stand on next heavy rain, I'm afraid.
It was a hot day, yesterday. Parts of the trail to Mason Lake were exposed and hot. From Mason Lake to Mount Defiance, trail is very soft and shady but steep. Wild flowers were feast for the eyes. Arnicas, yarrows, lilies, daisies... were in full bloom। There was no one at the summit. Mount Defiance is a true peak which allows magnificent 360-degree views.

Trail damage

Blue is very photogenic and poses when asked. He is showing off beautiful wild flowers on the south side of Mount Defiance.

Blue and Sly on the south side of the mountain .

Arnica montana in full bloom

Sly introducing 3 lakes looking down east from the peak: Lake Kula Kula on the left, Little Mason Lake right front, Mason Lake right rear.

That's Lake Kula Kula

Blue at the peak

Mason Lake: on the way down from Mount Defiance, we had the second picnic at Mason Lake. Blue and I shared a piece of baguette. Sly drank lots of water.

It was a glorious day: brilliant sun, flamboyant flowers, towering mountain peaks, and of course always-ready-to go border collies.

Scramble on Butte

2009-07-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

We went back to Mcclellan Butte today. It was sunny with refreshing breeze at times, and the trail was mostly clear of snow and debris. There was no land slide or washouts. Last year, snow was many feet high through August. This year seems to be in el nino.

We did come across a few patches of snow in the west side of the mountain.

We went through a snow tunnel in one of the snow shutes.

We made it to the Scramble.

Blue wanted to climb up, but I didn't want to crawl on hands and feet.

We instead inspected the rough rocky terrain and found a shady spot for lunch.

Sarah is an awsome border collie mix available for adoption. If interested, go to www.pnwbcrescue.org

2009-06-21T11:31:00.000-07:00

Blu with Sly

2009-04-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

Blue

2009-04-04T16:48:00.001-07:00

Picaso

2009-04-04T16:44:00.000-07:00