Ellensburg Highs

"The higher the altitude, the better the attitude."

Some of my favorite words to live by.  So, when the dry desert hills of Central Washington were getting me down, I decided to make for the hills.What makes up the recipe for a great summit hike?  A Nalgene, maybe a snack, definitely a camara, and a friend in tow.  Exhibit A: my new friend, Liz!

Clear days make for epic summit views and today was no exception.  Blue skies, fluffy clouds, and endless views.  The heart-thumping rush to the top of our small mountain was met with jaw-dropping views of the Stuarts and Mt Rainier.  We sat on the bench, chatting for a good long while about life, love, and happiness.  The light breeze was a  nice respite from the heat of the June sun and the mountain air was crisp and clean.

While I find beauty in the shrub steppe environs of Ellensburg, Washington, there will never be anything to replace the snow-capped peaks and green tunnel of the mountains.  Whether I'm deep in the Appalachian hills or high in the Cascades, the overwhelming smell of pine and the soft soil beneath my feet with always grip my heart with such force to draw me back again and again.  So give me vast views and tiny flowers, towering trees and sturdy trails.  Let me breathe deep the fresh air and I'll be happy.

"Of dirt you're made and of dirt you will return."