Driving east from Seattle, you’ll spot giant turbines standing proudly on the ridges of the Cascades, slowly rotating and facing you. We are often captivated by these monumental human creations—skyscrapers, cruise ships, airplanes. They are designed not only for utility but also to inspire awe.

Nice achievements!

RBC GranFondo Whistler - September 7, 2024 Time: 4:35:29 Distance: 122km / 76mi Elevation: 2300m / 7500ft

Ultra Trail Whistler by UTMB 2024 - 70K - September 28, 2024 Time: 12:05:34 Distance: 69km / 42.8mi Elevation: 3850m / 12631ft

There is so much that I would like to say, but I do not know where to start. I burst into tears after finishing them, though. :’)

Here is Prusik Peak, reflected in Gnome Tarn during golden October.

Four years later, I set off again towards The Enchantments. After living in Seattle for 10 years, I’ve explored so many places around here that I dare to call it my adopted hometown, and yet, after my first visit to The Enchantments, I can’t help but agree that it’s the crown jewel of the Seattle area.

The last time I passed through this area was almost ten years ago during my Route 66 road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago. Back then, I drove through Arizona so quickly that only the desert and cacti left me with some vague impressions as I passed through the city of Flagstaff.

Thanks to my friend’s good fortune, I had the chance to fly to Phoenix for the first time and venture north to explore more of the state, ultimately having one of my best backpacking experiences in a tiny village hidden inside the Grand Canyon.

This year, SR 20 the North Cascades Highway opened unusually early due to the increasingly warm weather. I had been planning this scenic cycling trip for years but was concerned about the road conditions and whether they would be suitable for my road bike. This time, I borrowed a gravel bike from a friend and finally made the trip!

The trailhead felt like a party. The parking lot was packed, and the highway shoulder was lined with vehicles. The entire trip route from Ross Dam Trailhead to the Washington Pass sign spanned roughly 60 miles with an elevation gain of 5,000 feet. We maintained a relaxed pace and finished just before a beautiful sunset.