Park Butte — Thursday, Oct. 25, 2007

North Cascades > Mount Baker Area

“Imagine that everyone in the world is enlightened but you. They are all your teachers, each doing just the right things to help you learn perfect patience, perfect wisdom, perfect compassion.” Jack Kornfield Now that is a quote I need to live by, even, and perhaps especially, when trying to reside on a summit. Kristine and I tried to catch some divine weather this past weekend. Our ascent at sunrise on Friday was achingly cold at first. But after our bodies became actively engaged with the planet we warmed and glided through a frosted and enchanting landscape. Snow started in earnest at upper meadow where we walked upon a dazzling stable crust. Kulshan smoked serenely above. The creek crossing was sporting with all surfaces above water coated with ice; our solution was to use submerged rocks as stepping stones. Really, the hike up was pure joy in beautiful snow. Early arrival allowed us to soak in the sunshine and quiet much of the day; late arrival of a pair required sharing summit residence. Moonrise was pumpkin-like against the dark Cascade mandible. Anticipating sunrise, we all arose well before dawn. High clouds moving in from the north only added to the drama. These same clouds were variable until early afternoon before obscuring sun completely. It was much clearer Glacier Peak southward. While day hikers milled about while we continued working on the structure. My chief complaint was that folks would track mud onto a floor we just cleaned. Ahh, but that was the lesson was it not? Anyway, we enjoyed out stay and at least one solitary night. Sightings of gray-hooded rosy finches, and pine grosbeaks were gratifying as well. We walked out in conditions quite opposite those coming in. The snow was soft and lusterless; cloud had decapitated Kulshan leaving only ice draped flanks and blue-grinning crevasses. As sprinkles anointed our descent from the mountain I was reminded how the practice of life is forever, and gratifyingly humble. Now if I can only remember to stay there a bit longer.