Karen and Tom Wanderings

I (Tom) had hopes of a fall hike to see the golden larch trees after my return to Seattle from the East Coast.  Weather reports indicated only a 1-day window before the onset of winter-like weather.  So, despite wanting a bit of time to rest up from the East Coast trip, I knew what had to be done.  A quick check of the trip reports confirmed that the larches were at their peak in the North Cascades (Rainy Pass area), but also that some snow would likely be encountered on the trail.  Unfortunately, I couldn't find Brian's micro-spikes (for snow/ice traction while hiking), so the 3 hour drive each way seemed a bit much with the uncertainty of being able to reach the larches.  Instead, I opted to stay closer to home ... Granite Mountain for a final fall hurrah.  There wouldn't be larches, but there would likely be lots of colors on the open slopes.  However, those pesky larches continued to tug on my brain, so I took a chance and drove over towards the...

In late September, we connected with Tom's mom and our daughter, Kelsey, for a 3-generation trip to Maine.  Our primary objective was Acadia National Park (and daily seafood), but we also saw some gorgeous places en route.  The first surprise was Cape Elizabeth.  It's 10 miles south of Portland, and we hopped down there shortly after our flight arrived, mostly to visit the lobster shack.  But, what a beautiful piece of coast ... and the waves were pounding in pretty good, as a result of Hurricane Maria activity out at sea ... just as the sun was setting!  Our mostly rural drive up to Acadia wasn't quite as "coastal" as we had thought, but there were some quintessential Maine towns, a very cool bridge (Penobscott Narrows Bridge), and some nice views from Mt Battie (near Camden).  The Penobscott Narrows Bridge was stunning, but its ultra-modern lines seemed very out-of-place in the old-time Maine countryside.  Perhaps that contrast was part of the plan...