An experience of a high altitude mountain ritual
- a phone interview is required to complete your registration
- Approx. 13 miles, distance may vary
- Approx. 2,800', or more
- Steady assent on good trail, then off-trail travel over moraine and snowfields
- Hiking poles required
Hike Description: Our newest hike is an exploration into the etherial world of the North Cascades above timberline, our highest hike of the season. We will travel to the limits of off-trail hiking (without actual climbing) to pay reverence to Mt. Shuksan and Ruth Mt. with a high altitude "Nine Bows" ceremony. The hike will be led by Reverend Seishin Tindall. This hike will take all day, hence the early start time.
A Challenging Hike: If you are new to this hike a telephone or email exchange with program coordinator Bob Penny to determine your fitness for the journey will be required to complete your registration.
Timing: Meet at Sansui-ji, 2509 Cedarwood at 5am or at Nugents Corner at 5:45. A very early start is essential to have sufficient daylight for this long day hike. We hope to return to Sansui-ji by 7pm but return times can vary.
What to Bring: Bring a lunch, generous snacks, at least two liters of water, and layers. Wearing hiking boots to protect your ankles with wool socks is recommended. Hiking poles are required for the off-trail portion. Bring appropriate layers for a long day with large temperature range, including a wind layer. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a shade hat are vital to bring in the alpine environment.
Carpooling: You will indicate during registration where you're meeting the group.
Registration: While our day hikes are offered without charge, we do incur about $10 of program administration cost for each registration. There is the opportunity during registration to donate to cover these costs for your own registration or, additionally, to help another cover their registration expenses. Everyone is welcome, and no one will be refused attendance for lack of funds. As we do on the trail, we support each other.
Donations to the Leader: As with all of our events, teachers/leaders are not compensated for their time. You can include a donation to the hike leader during registration or at any time through our Donate to a Teacher page.
Questions? Contact Wilderness Dharma Program Coordinator Bob Penny at wilderness@redcedarzen.org and see our Wilderness Dharma Program page for an overview of this program.
