Rattling Life

One foot in front of the other…in my own head thinking about the things I naturally think about on trail. When suddenly I find myself screaming profanity while running away southbound. Not a person in sight to witness my encounter with the rattle snake. I saw a multi colored earth toned creature poke out from the grass and rattling away, literally no further than 1 foot away.  

I knew what to do/what I was told to do, but I instantly started second guessing this knowledge. All I could think of was to stomp on the ground and make frequent vibrations in the hopes that the snake would stop rattling and slither away. I luckily was joined by the amazing Maraposa (who lives in Arizona and VERY comfortable with rattlers) who went ahead of me to find where this lovely creature was hiding and move on past. 

​ So terrifying, yet beyond happy this rather large fella didn’t feel like striking. Thank you Mother Nature!

The past 48 hours have been filled with loads of wildlife sightings. Yesterday morning I was walking along to find a turtle just hanging out on the side. Shortly after, a deer ran out in front of me. I stopped to watch and respect this beautiful creature. Within five minutes, a baby deer came running or (galloping?) towards me. I started talking to this little one and sending the deer safe and happy thoughts. The day was then wrapped up by an adorable bunny sighting!

The last couple days sure have been memorable. For starters, my wonderful friend Eha Jude will be getting off trail and I have had the pleasure of spending the last few days with her! We haven’t hiked together in some time, but now that we’ve been together I forget how lovely of a friend she has been. I will miss her on trail, but she will be thought of frequently…”no glory in…” A saying here on trail Jude created to remind us not to get off trail from a silly injury or mistake!

Lounging in my hammock, bug net cacooning me, while watching the sun slowly dip below the mountain range. The air is warm, yet slightly breezy. This life I am living is one that I fully love. Breathing in the fresh air and listening to the musical orchastra of the local birds.

This day has been my favorite day within these 71 days living on  trail. Experiencing the beauty of McAfee Knob, then hiking along rock face ridge line to the extraordinary Boulder ridge followed by the views  Tinker Cliffs had to offer. It’s amazing how my love for hiking can totally intertwine with my love for climbing. 

Boulder after boulder. Walking along the ridge to an outlook sitting on top of a mountain, overlooking a sea of green forests and lakes of green grass with villages and towns. A site to see for sure. 

The days are passing and summer weather is quickly becoming acutely intense. The moments on trail these past few days have been so wonderful, yet very eventful. 

That’s all for now, expect a gear post next. 

Happy Hump Day my beautiful friends. It will be a beautiful day for sure. 

~Chia xo