Snow covered the trail above 4000 feet, but we still summited and camped atop Tumala Mountain at 4775 feet above sea level. Most of the 5 mile trail was snow-free, and it was like going back in time to see early spring wildflowers - trillium, skunk cabbage, marsh marigolds,and even coltsfoot were blooming.
Backpacker Gabe had already attended NA's free Map & Compass and Intro to Backpacking clinics, and was raring to put what he had learned into practice on the trail. After a pack shake-down in the shop to lighten his load, we hit the road. We didn't see anyone else along the trail, and had views of Mt. Jefferson and the Roaring River Wilderness to ourselves.
Far below us, the
Clack-Fest was raging on the river, but we watched birds soar and checked out flowers and mushrooms while sharing trips and tricks for the trail.
Orienteering skills came into play when the trail disappeared under snow, and we had to scramble a bit, but we soon found ourselves at the summit of Tumala Mountain, gazing out at fantastic views of Mt. Hood and the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness.
We leveled off the snow and set up our tents. I tried out the new Wilderness Technolgy
Denali 2 tent, which was roomy and comfortable. After dinner, we reviewed Leave No Trace ethics, built a small fire, and watched the night fall on the mountain. A varied thrush lent its lonely notes to the still evening.
In true Oregon fashion, a light rain was falling the next morning. After breakfast, we packed up our gear and had a magical hike out through the misty forest.
Next Adventure is a fully-insured licensed Outfitter and Guide with the State of Oregon. Next Adventure is an equal opportunity Recreation Provider operating under special use permit on the Mt. Hood National Forest and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, USDA Forest Service.
Next Adventure Guide-Instructors are locally trail-experienced, and carry current Wilderness First Response certification.
