Hiking in Hatchers

 Yesterday morning, our family packed up for an overnight camping trip.  Stephen and McKinley were super excited to get out in the great outdoors and explore new territory in the mountains.  We believe Sage (the dog), was excited too….she is a Bernese Mountain Dog, right?  The Mountains are her home.  I, too, feel 'at home' in the mountains.  I love the jagged peaks, the patches of snow, and the majestic rock formations.  I am always in awe of what a beautiful world Heavenly Father  has created for us to enjoy.  

Getting ready to go up the trail.  

Our journey took place in the Hatcher Pass area.  We drove up Archangel road to get to our starting point.  We hiked in a few miles and found a campsite that was surrounded by mountains, creeks, lakes and waterfalls.  It was heaven on earth for me.  I really needed a get away.  It was so refreshing to be out on a sunny, warm day which included a slight breeze to keep bugs away.  I loved it!

Stephen loved climbing on all the rocks.  The best part, of course, was jumping off.  

Stephen peeks inside of an old mining cabin.

After a long hike, the refreshing water of the creek felt so good on the tired feet.

Pondering time.  

Cuddle time.

McKinley shows off her jumping skills.  It's so fun to fly!

It was worth the hike in to see this wondrous waterfall.  

Girl time. 

Brother & sister, so happy together!

McKinley loved playing in the cool creek….and I mean 'cool!'

Stephen reacts appropriately to the cold water.  It was a good kind of hurt.  ;  )

We camped nearby this creek.  It was so relaxing to hear the creek running at night while sleeping in the tent,

(except that it made you feel like you needed to get up and go potty.  )  :  )

Delicious dinner made by Ray.  

I went on a little walk with Stephen & McKinley while Ray cooked dinner.

So glad I brought our little digital camera.  There was no hauling in Ray's big camera on this trip.  We were both carrying packs full of the tent, sleeping bags, food, little cook stove, clothes, etc.  I had forgotten what it felt like to haul a load like that on your back.  It was a work out, but worth the effort.  

Home sweet home!

McKinley feeling like Rapunzel when she first set foot on grass:  "This is so much fun!!!!"

Always fun to keep your balance while traversing over snow with a big pack on.  Thank goodness for trail shoes with traction.  

Look at that jagged peak!  I just love it!  

I love Stephen too!

This was an adventure that rejuvenated all of us.    

If you're ever feeling like you just need a break from it all….hit the trails.  Whether it's a paved path

near your home or a dirt trail that leads you into the wilderness by a rushing river or majestic mountains, allow yourself to feel the freedom that the great outdoors provides.  

Be free…be happy!