Friday, April 12, 2013

The Wonderland Trail - Mt. Rainier, WA

The Wonderland Trail Around Mt. Rainier in Washington State

     I just received my reservation confirmation for my hike with my father on the Wonderland Trail around Mt. Rainier in Washington.  I can't begin to state how excited I am about this trip. We got the itinerary that we wanted and it was only moved one day out from the original start date that we requested.
     This trail is supposed to be one of the more beautiful longer distant hikes in the US.  From the pictures I have seen and the reports from friends who have already done the trail I don't think it will disappoint.
     I know I am leaving this post short and without much information, but I just was too excited not to put it down!!! Stay tuned at the end of summer for a trip report and video.

Happy Trails!!!
Rovious


Saturday, April 6, 2013

Appalachian Trail 2013 - Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) to Fontana Dam



     This past weekend I was fortunate enough to escape for the weekend and do a small section of the Appalachian Trail from the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) to the Fontana Dam.  Although the weather looked ominous per the weather forcast the rain held off and the weekend turned out to be pretty decent for hiking.
     We started the trip by making our way to the Fontana Lodge located in Fontana village on Friday evening.  I have never stayed in the hotel before, but I can't begin to state how pleasantly surprised I was by the luxury of the accommodations. The warm fire burning in the spacious lobby was so welcoming I felt like I had just been transported to an episode of the "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous". After watching the season finally of Bering Sea Gold it was off to bed to catch a few zzz's before catching our shuttle back to the NOC in the morning.