Bandera has a history of foot complications with TNAB. This is where Don managed to bring only one boot, and hiked with one loafer, one boot for the trip. This time it was my turn as I managed to forget hiking socks. Joan saved me from certain blisters with a spare pair and all was good.
Just as we were starting out 3 cars came roaring up to the parking lot, an odd sight for us since that's usually our job at 6pm. TNAB competition? audition? Whatever it was, we didn't see much of the other group; they turned back before snow line. The lower section of the new trail is still marked as "closed" so we took the traditional, calf-pumper route. The upper section wasn't marked so we took the new trail for a switch-back. Definitely saves on the calves / knees, but not as much of a cardio work out :) Snow didn't start until well up on the ridge. View was nice, and there were almost-sun spots for the first few minutes on top, but then the clouds moved in. Dropping back out of the clouds presented a nice sunset as we headed down. Mason lake was still frozen, so no swimming this trip. We even got out without headlamps! spring is here! (except for that freezing level forecast of 3500 ft this weekend.....)
Coincidentally, moments before I left for Bandera last night, the following showed up in my inbox:
Like last year, you will be awarded with a 2003 Annual Forest Pass for two days of trail work. Work parties are every Saturday and select Sundays through the summer and fall. For details and to sign up, contact us at:
206.517.3019
info@trailvolunteers.org
Stunning views, fresh air, and lots of fun. Join us on Bandera and spend a day with your Mother Earth.
See you on the trail!
Volunteers for Outdoor Washington
8511 15th Avenue North, Suite 206
Seattle, Washington 98115
206.517.3019
www.trailvolunteers.org
All images and content on these pages are Copyright © 2003 by Dan Scherer. Reproduction without expressed written permission prohibited.