After a long and winding road, I am finally back in the Idaho Mountains, doing Idaho Mountains things…… at least for the moment!
This is one of the only locations which one can get a fantastic view of Platt Peak. It’s also a place where I stop and tip my cap.
Scott and Riley. How can you tell Scottie is old school? Check out the old broom stick hiking pole! All the McCall OGs use those.
This time of year is perhaps my favorite time to enjoy the McCall area hiking. Watching the snow recede and spring arrive in the high county is quite special. This year it comes early. With the warm winter temperatures and low snow pack we are about 3 weeks ahead of schedule while at the same time, my hiking schedule is about 3 weeks behind.
Up in the basin at about 6800 feet, there is still plenty of snow. Next up, we need to climb to the saddle shown above.
Climbing to the ridge with snow cover is so much easier than without! You can’t believe all the stuff we are walking over.
Looking north on the climb we see other peaks further up the basin.
On top of the ridge we have perhaps my favorite views in the Payette.
Old snags.
Crystal Lake.
Riley does not seem to be bothered by the cold water.
Scottie, Riley and I have a little lunch prior to heading back down.
We retake the ridge and head back down into the basin. (notice Scott and Riley mid image) It was a wonderful day back in the mountains.
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