Fossil Mountain August 19, 2017

this day of discovery was showcased to be big

in many more ways than just one

for some it was within our souls we did dig

 for all t'was an accomplishment when our day was done

Fossil Mountain was a new destination for us all.  I was glad others were as game as me to go given an early start, a cold temperature and a forecast of smoke.  The past few times I ventured into the Skoki environs this mountain was always at the forefront of my view and in my mind.   Having been in the area about a month ago to summit Heather Ridge, I was not sure I would care to go back again so soon after wards.  This summer has been full of days of discovery which I have been enjoying immensely and I was keen to keep that momentum going.  I have been feeling strong these days so was quite confident I could have a successful summit experience on Fossil.  

When we exited the forest and I saw the blue sky and those fluffy puffy white clouds I was tickled pink.  It has been awhile since I saw these few of my favourite things.  I secretly hoped it would stay like this for our entire adventure.

 We arrived at Ptarmigan Lake where we had a great view in the middle ahead of Fossil Mountain.

 Ptarmigan Peak to our left

 Redoubt Mountain and Ptarmigan Lake to our right

Just before beginning the climb to Deception Pass we stopped for a fuel break.  We then made our way up to Deception Pass then scouted out the route options to ascend the very steep slopes to the summit of Fossil Mountain.  I took a look back to witness one of our first amazing views.  

It was time to begin "the climb".

"the struggles I'm facing

the chances I'm taking

sometimes might knock me down

but no, I'm not breaking

just gotta keep going

I got to be strong

just keep pushing"

The higher we climbed more amazing views were presented.  

We could see the Wall of Jericho with Zigadenus and Myosotis Lakes at the base of it.

Little Baker Lake and Tilted Lake came into view

I was speechless when we reached Fossil Mountain's summit.  Not only did I feel out of breath from the climb but I tried to take time to "remember to breathe" but that is difficult when you are left breathless.  The views did that to me.  We could now see Skoki Mountain and off to the Red Deer Lakes.

summit cairn with the memorial plaque

my summit shot with Ptarmigan Lake far below me

me and my friends full of fever

It was windy and cold at times on the summit yet when the wind died down it felt hot.  We settled down and dined after taking our solo shots.  After dining time we then captured our group shots and some more scenery keepsakes.  We knew where we needed to go to descend so headed off and began to move down slowly and surely through the very deep scree on the steep slope.

looking back at my friends and up to where we were

We connected up with the trail that leads to Baker Lake.

back at Ptarmigan Lake

We passed by the official yoga boulder opting for something a little more unique.  In the middle of Boulder Pass we thought this would be a good spot to wind down and breathe deep.  We didn't spend too long as it wasn't needed, we felt ready to carry on with the last ten kilometers of the day.

Instead of taking the main trail back to the Hut we meandered through the meadow with a few creek crossings and pretty views.  We took a little bit of time at the Halfway Hut to get ready for the last push back to the trail head.  We fueled up a bit more, layered down and went on our way.

looking back through the meadow at Fossil Mountain which is not anywhere near a mere memory yet

With lots of conversation back through the forest the distance went quickly.  We admired the colors again, this time opting for photos with the perfect backdrop and lighting.  This was to be the last of our vast views.....

...except for Mount Temple in front of us...

For me this was a day of discovery in many ways.  The biggest would be setting my sights on a lofty goal and knowing I have the physical and mental capacity to accomplish it without any doubts or second guessing.   I realized I don't always need the affirmation on direction or judgment calls.  My sense and sensibility are proving correct so I am in a more confident and comfortable place with being out & about.  I am enjoying venturing to new places and discovering "new to me" mountains, summits, meadows and lakes.  I feel like I am growing as an adventurer with leaps and bounds yet knowing there is still so much more growing to do.  Thank you for today, it was a most wonderful gift!