Photos from Northern California, July 8 - 16

California continues to provide one beautiful area after another. I would hike for 6 or 8 miles in the conifer forests and then hit a section of lava flow and rocky outcrops, and then hike through that for another 6 or 8 miles. Before long, I would be on top of a mountain, looking out across an alpine lake - seemingly out of nowhere.

Photos are attached for your pleasure: A reflection, mirrored on a clear, crystal, still water, lake - can't tell where the land ends and the sky begins (photo 1); the flowing water of Burney Falls (photo 2) where water pours out of rock crevasses; the PCT foot path through lava rocks (photo 3); the wall of lava (photo 4) stretching out mile after mile; and then coming around the top of a crest and looking out at one of the most awesome mountains - Mt. Shasta (photo 5). As you can tell, I am enjoying myself.
Keep hiking
Greybeard

Photos out of Echo Lake, July 2 and Sierra Crest July 3 in Central California

Catching up on some photos for your enjoyment. Now a month ago (July 2 and 3) when I left South Lake Tahoe, I climbed out of Echo Lake (photo 3), I hiked along the Sierra Crest. July the 3rd was across a long, dry stretch (photo 2) right on the top of the crest. There were beautiful panoramic views and craggy, lava rock formations (photo 4). The predominent flower along the open meadows was the Mule Ear (photo 1). This area provided many photo opts.

Keep hiking,

Greybeard

Thank you Loyd Gusg, Bend OR

Photo shows a thru-hiker's dad (sorry I didn't write down his name) on left and Loyd on right. Loyd is the trail angel to contact when you get to Elk Park Resort. Loyd, as well as being very helpful, and is extremely knowledgeable of the area. He is a local who knows the trail and conditions better than anyone I have talked with. He is very good at gathering information and passing it on to the trail community. He deserves a great big thank you. I wanted to post my appreciation of his services.
Keep hiking,
Greybeard