A brief sojourn through the gentle highlands of Western Maryland

After a boisterous night by our rowdy neighbors, it was nice to hear the sound of snow falling on pancakes.

Morning? Oh, looks like six more weeks of winter.

But there is a trail yonder!

I paused to stop And gaze upon the mountain Shaking my head in disbelief

I can not leap there In one impossible step So I put my foot before me

And walked up top

Fortunately, a snowflake in the eye is not a medical emergency

Sandesh prepares a hot lunch

The sun came up shortly after noon

(intermission)

A water break is much needed after narrowly escaping the famed Alex Sehman Switchback, so named for the harrowing tale from the end of the last century.

The Earth was much colder then, and this trail was covered completely in ice. It was here that Alex tumbled on his backside from the Upper Trail, the Lower unable to check his speed. It was only this dead, hollowed tree that ended his tumble, and Alex spoke wistfully of this log that bears his mark

But, beware, good sir, some trees are foe! Woe to them that tarry near the metallivorous ones.

Deer and Fox make sport in these lands, why shan’t we?

Donna and Bill cut a bold track.

Matt, Bill and Mike pause to rest after the day’s hike

Cory is contented with the day’s efforts, completely unaware of the Masked Man lurking near.

Alex failed to emerge unscathed again, suffering a badly ruptured hip belt attachment.

Sandesh finds a friendly log to support his weary bones.

Sunday morning brings a warm new day, as the temperature inches above ten degrees Fahrenheit,

…which means it’s time for a hearty breakfast of Raisin Bread French Toast.

Warmer by at least three or four degrees, the gang relaxes in base camp and plot their next move.

Yes, let’s do a bit of semi-technical rescue training! Each take turn at easing the securely packaged litter to safety.

Alex’s backpack, Status 2, is handled with care and professionalism.

The End