Chapter 2: Cascade and Porter

 

Preparation: I had a tent and sleeping bag and mat as well as a camp stove. Much to my dismay I lost my poles to pitch the tent.  Found a similar one on amazon, tent purchased. Then I had to get hiking boots and clothing as well as a daypack and other equipment that is needed more to follow on that in the coming chapters. So, I made reservations for me myself and I to begin my journey. Draper’s acres was perfect the correct location just 3 minutes up the road from my first high peak. The people at the front office were very friendly and extremely helpful. The drive to the campground was about 5 hours for me. 

Trip #1: I arrived on Friday in August a couple of weeks before my birthday. Due to weather that day I arrived later then I had expected so was pitching my tent in the dark not the best idea, but i didn't have any choice. Luckily, I found a very nice couple to help me out. Once that was all set up it was time to make some dinner. Much to my chagrin I could not get my camp stove to light. So, I went to my car and had a couple of protein bars and then went to bed. the two mountains that I was planning on hiking the next day are both popular due to the views at the top, so my plan was to wake up early have breakfast and get on the road before 7 am. By 7 am I was hitting the trail with gusto. 

The climb was challenging as I was not in the best shape of my life. Weather wise it was humid on the side of the mountain as one would expect to encounter in August, but once at the top of the mountain it was on the chilly side with a strong wind.

Due to rain on the day prior both hikes were muddy, but luckily, I had a decent amount of traction with my hiking boots. On another note, after my own research of big slide and other potential high peak climbs, I have made the decision to not hike big slide yet as I feel it is more of a challenge than I am looking for at this point in time. I am working on my plan b right now and I am thinking that Phelps Mountain may be a great option. This hike with my less than stellar fitness level took me three fourths of the day. I will mention here that I pushed myself to fast and hard trying to stay within the estimated time it takes to get to the summit and back. 

The summit of porter is the perfect spot to have lunch or just sit and be present. the summit was no real views except for the tree line. Therefore, I suggest taking your time at the summit of Cascade as the view at the summit is gorgeous with views in all directions from the 1984 Winter Olympics ski jumps to the bobsled run on to the luge run as well. On other sides you can see other high peaks as well.

Recommendation: I suggest hiking porter then going the rest of the way up to Cascade Mountain. the total time for me to complete both hikes was from 7 am to about 4 pm. 

Reflection: I also suggest that you take your time on this hike and do not push yourself to the extent that I did as the following day was extremely difficult for me to move due to muscle tension. In other words, if you are out of shape take on a slower pace so that you can enjoy the hike and what the mountains have to offer. Also, we have great parks that can help you get ready. Please learn from my lesson of not being fit enough, although it is do able you don't enjoy the hike as much as is possible. therefore, missing out on a huge opportunity of being present in your surroundings.