The first time I went to Summerland was about 3 weeks ago. See that trip report here.

And today, PTGal and I went up there. This time, the mountain was out. We hiked the whole way to Panhandle Gap, which makes the hike 3000 feet up and about 11 miles round trip.

I told PTGal that my body was a different body than even three weeks ago. She has known me for 7 years, and she said a couple of years ago, I wouldn't have even done the hike I did today. She's right. My fear of everything would have made the steep parts and the snow crossings impossible. Today I just climbed up like a mountain goat. Yeah, there was plenty of work involved, but I never thought shit, I'm not going to make it. Last time took 7 hours with many rest stops, and we didn't go to the top. This time took 7.5 hours, fewer breaks, and included the full summiting of Panhandle Gap.

This new way of life, this energy: what a relief and a blessing.

And I have the pics to attest to my zest. Enjoy.

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The mountain showed today.


And showed some more.



This marmot was licking the shelter wall. I think there might have been some, um, urinary salts he was after.



Heading up the meadow after lunch.



Much less snow than last time.



I dipped my hands and head into the lake, but didn't really consider skinny dipping. I know, lame, but man, it was COLD!



PTGal at the top.



Yup, we went up there. Sat on those pinnacles and looked down the other side. They are left over from an old eruption, according to the guide book.



From the tippity top.



Down the other side; it's called Ohanapecosh Park.



A slate slide on the way back down.



Vibrant moss in the midst of moraine (say it three times fast).