Of course there was a trail. And by "trail" I mean there was a series of cairns and flags that marked the way. Yes, someone else had been this way, but not a lot of someones.

The trail didn't mess around with too many switchbacks. It favored a direct approach. What could we do other than follow along? Just below the ridge, the trail split. We could continue straight up to Dog Mountain or turn right for Anderson Lake. We chose the lake.

We crossed a rock field and through a little swamp. Except the swamp was under snow so it was extra cold when we got wet. The lake was smaller than I expected and frozen. Well, mostly frozen. Perhaps an inch or two thick. Not enough to support us. Tinkham, though, was free to wander as she pleased. Hmph.

We had snacks and turned for home. You'd think it'd be easier going down. Nah. Going down meant less effort than climbing, but more slipping and falling. Again, Tink didn't have any issues. She was up and down. Annoying.

Sure, it was another hike. Another new destination. More importantly, we had a chance to feel small. Feeling small is easy in the mountains. Big views. Big trees. Big rocks. Small us. It helps to remind us of our place. If we all disappeared, the world would be just fine without us. So we need to remember we're only here for a short while. Our purpose is to be decent people and to be decent to each other.

More people should go hiking.

📍On the lands of the Snoqualmie people.