Rainier in Reflection
Hullo. I thought I would provide you with a natural landscape to somewhat diversify from the urban landscapes throughout December. Although nearly 100 miles (161km) southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier is a well recognized “local" landmark, especially when the days are crystal clear and one can see Rainier dominating above the Cascade Mountains along the horizon. The tallest mountain in Washington State -- and dormant volcano (hasn’t erupted since the late 19th century) -- Rainier has an elevation of 14,411 ft (4,392 m). Because of its prominence, on those clear days, Rainier can be seen from as far away as Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada as well as Portland, Oregon.
Some of you are familiar with Steve’s work -- he’s a photographer and very much a nature guy. When he found out I had never been to Rainier since I moved to Seattle, he took it upon himself to change that reality! Result? We took a five-mile hike (one-way) to get to this spot, Spray Lake, at Mount Rainier National Park back in August. This was the reward at sunset after some serious climbing, knee-scraping, and being eaten alive from the mosquitos that accompanied us! ;o) We also saw two large brown bears about a mile (1.6 km) away -- a safe distance to admire them.
Some of the laziest frogs I have ever encountered in my life were basking beneath the surface of this lake. Didn’t move a muscle when I approached them to take photos; also didn’t bother to help us with reducing the mosquito population. Cute frogs, but lazy!
It was completely dark on the hike back. I tripped over rocks and branches many times. I still don’t know how Steve managed to navigate, even with the tiny flashlights tied around our heads. Nevertheless, after constantly dripping sweat for more than three hours, I’m not ashamed to admit that I had never been happier to see my own car in my entire life. (Definitely worth it, but the story would not be as interesting if I didn’t complain a little bit).
Have a good weekend!
WATCH ***TIA: YEAR IN PHOTOS 2012***
TIA INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY / TIA Facebook / TIA Twitter / TIA Blogger
Rainier in Reflection
Hullo. I thought I would provide you with a natural landscape to somewhat diversify from the urban landscapes throughout December. Although nearly 100 miles (161km) southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier is a well recognized “local" landmark, especially when the days are crystal clear and one can see Rainier dominating above the Cascade Mountains along the horizon. The tallest mountain in Washington State -- and dormant volcano (hasn’t erupted since the late 19th century) -- Rainier has an elevation of 14,411 ft (4,392 m). Because of its prominence, on those clear days, Rainier can be seen from as far away as Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada as well as Portland, Oregon.
Some of you are familiar with Steve’s work -- he’s a photographer and very much a nature guy. When he found out I had never been to Rainier since I moved to Seattle, he took it upon himself to change that reality! Result? We took a five-mile hike (one-way) to get to this spot, Spray Lake, at Mount Rainier National Park back in August. This was the reward at sunset after some serious climbing, knee-scraping, and being eaten alive from the mosquitos that accompanied us! ;o) We also saw two large brown bears about a mile (1.6 km) away -- a safe distance to admire them.
Some of the laziest frogs I have ever encountered in my life were basking beneath the surface of this lake. Didn’t move a muscle when I approached them to take photos; also didn’t bother to help us with reducing the mosquito population. Cute frogs, but lazy!
It was completely dark on the hike back. I tripped over rocks and branches many times. I still don’t know how Steve managed to navigate, even with the tiny flashlights tied around our heads. Nevertheless, after constantly dripping sweat for more than three hours, I’m not ashamed to admit that I had never been happier to see my own car in my entire life. (Definitely worth it, but the story would not be as interesting if I didn’t complain a little bit).
Have a good weekend!
WATCH ***TIA: YEAR IN PHOTOS 2012***
TIA INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY / TIA Facebook / TIA Twitter / TIA Blogger