Backcountry
Journey
The morning is upon me as I open up the blinds, only to be shown a wonderful display of white powder outside my window. The excitement builds, as I know what my only plan is that day, skiing.
I rush to my favorite backcountry spot. As I wait in the car all I can think about is those fresh tracks. I finally make it to the destination. The edge of the Sawtooth mountains. A place known for their jagged and unrelenting peaks. With limited access and the crowds far away, making it the perfect location.
I unload my skis, with the soft mid-winter sun shining on my face. Marveling at the stillness in the air. I clip in my skis and then make my first tracks up the mountain. But before I go on I take a deep breath in, taking in everything before I embark on my journey. And then I am off.
The deep powder proves to be challenging to traverse as I make my way up the mountain. With my heart and mind set on fresh untouched powder I continue on. Every time I think I made it to the top I find another peak calling my name.
Until at last I see the horizon of the valley below me. I have made it after hours of hard climbing and hiking. And the reward was ever so worth it. With fresh powder as far as the eye can see. And a panoramic view of the sawtooths all around me.
I take it all in as I sit at the top, realizing that it’s not the big and shiny moments that bring contentment and happiness but the small moments. Just like this one. Sitting around with friends on top of the world. Where time passes but you simply choose not too care. These are the moments I seek to find.
Drenched in sweat but happy as can be, I make my way down the untouched powder. Going slow with nowhere to be. Until we meet again, my old friend.
