More Walupt

Time for the annual Walupt Lake camping trip. This year, like the last, was not without adventure. We had two additions to our traveling party this year. Andrea's cousins, Kate and Michaela (8 and 12 respectively) were in town from Upper Michigan, and we invited them to come along. It was cool to show them the mountains of the Northwest. There was only one disappointment that later turned into a blessing.

Andrea and I love going through Trout Lake on our way to the lake. It's a great place to stop and eat and pick up anything to do with huckleberries! Last winter though, was devastating to the roads in the mountains. In particular, it was devastating to the road that we use to get from Trout Lake to Walupt Lake. This was a big bummer. It meant that we would be driving the boring way up I-5 to US 12. With two young girls in the car from out of town, that was not a pleasant option.

So, off we went at 5:30 on Saturday evening on a drive that was supposed to take close to 4 hours (I had to work that day, so we couldn't leave till then)! Let's just say I managed to get there in a lot less time and set up camp quickly. It was good to see Mom and Dad and Curt and Marie and their friends there. We all have a great time together!

We took the girls for a hike on Sunday and then hung around camp and the lake. It was fun, if uneventful. We hiked to the creek and back, stopping on the other side of the lake. Picture time!

Michaela:













Kate















Kate and Michaela


















Then it was our turn.





















The next day, we headed home a different way. I just have to say that it was a glorious drive! The sun was shining, the temperature was mild, the road was winding. A man cannot ask for anything more!

Too bad the kids weren't more excited. ;)






Kirby actually enjoyed being between the girls, who lavished attention upon him!









We went up to Windy Ridge to see Mt. St. Helens. Along the way, we got a great view of Mt. Rainier.

















Here we are, less than six miles from the crater.














Here's an interesting stump that Andrea got a picture of.



















One more stop in Cougar, and the obligatory shot with the statue of the town's namesake.



















Andrea and I had a great time showing the girls around the mountains. They are really fun to hang out with. I Hope we can do it again! Next time, girls, we won't do so much driving. I promise!