As in life, sometimes you just have to go even if you are unsure. I was up in the Sierras back in the Spring and decided to hike up a ridge line to get to a meeting at a nearby ski lodge. Its only a few miles, but the weather had still been pretty unsteady. I prepared all of my gear and started heading up. The snow started to fall and the trail got a little covered. At various points, the trail was hard to discern, but I kept going. I thought about turning back at a few points because I was alone. But, I kept pushing myself along and avoided the deep patches of snow. I came through the trail on the upper section of a ski run. With poles in hand, I poked along the side of the mountain trying to avoid the drainage ditches. Well, I misjudged one and fell all the way to my chest in snow. Thankfully nothing happened to me; most of the tunnels have jagged edges and such. I was really hoping that someone at the lodge had looked up at that moment and seen a large pink object disappear. I wear loud color gear when I hike alone so anyone and everyone can see me (most times). Post meeting, I led a trio of SpaceX members down the mountain. Thank goodness that they were with me as the trail was almost completely covered b/c of the whiteout. It ended up being a great hiking adventure!!!! I need more training on snow camping and trekking for trails.
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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