Just ten little stone stairs (31 July)

Today involved a lot of driving with a little hike as a special treat. Actually, the drive itself was a treat as we took the scenic routes instead of the available highways to drive from Evanston in Wyoming to Provo in Utah. The first part of our journey took us through the Wasatch National Forest with campgrounds and lakes bordering the winding road. After a brief stop at Mirror Lake, where we could observe Americans at a favorite pastime - fishing and picinicing - we parked at the top of the pass (10,749 ft) and hiked up to Bald Mountain.

Mirror Lake with Bald Mountain

Although this only involved a climb of about 1,200 ft (400m), it was quite demanding. First of all, the altitude (11, 740 ft) really made itself felt. Then, the path consisted of varying heights of steps, interspersed with dust and loose gravel. I was glad to have my poles with me to help me over some pretty large rocks. However, the panoramas of forest and lakes that continually appeared and spread below us was breathtaking. Unfortunately, the view was limited and hazy due to some terrible forest fires, the worst of which is raging in northern California. (Yosemite is closed because of the smoke hazard!)

See those stairs in the middle of the photo?

Well, here we were almost at the top and it was suddenly the end of the road for me. The people in the photo are approaching a set of stone stairs, which look pretty harmless. What you can't see is the narrow saddle leading over to them, or the fact that they look straight down to Mirror Lake on the right. I really tried, but my fear of heights overwhelmed me and I had a panic attack. Even though Emil was very understanding and helpful, I just had to admit that this summit was not meant for me. While he took a quick look at the top, I crouched down by some stones and avoided looking at the bit of descent I would have to master in order to pass the saddle. Holding on to Emil by his backpack, and keeping my eyes on the wall next to me, this was soon accomplished and I could enjoy the rest of the trail down the mountain.

After a brief picnic with a view looking up to "our " Bald Mountain, we continued our drive along the mountain road. As has become our custom when driving long distances, we found a shady pullout, put down the backs of our seats and took a nap. Thirst made itself noticeable and we were glad to find this quaint little store in Samak, which served excellent coffee and iced tea.

Leaving the mountains, the landscape became quite flat and arid, until we again turned off ito the American Fork Canyon/Alpine Loop region. This very narrow, winding road climbed past campgrounds and winter resort areas, beautifully lined by thick birch and aspen forests and seemingly a favorite of serious cyclists. We were to late to visit the TipanagosCave but, even without this attraction, the drive was certainly worth it!