Kim, Bonnie and I went camping last week to Klipchuck Campground on Highway 20 just west of Mazama, Washington.  The weather was perfect — highs slowly declining from 75 to about 70 over the four days, clear skies, starry nights.  We went for a hike on the first full day:  Maple Pass Loop with a spur trail to Lake Anne for a lunch at the picturesque alpine lake.  Day 2 saw us lounging around the campsite, reading our books and watching the tame deer and skittish chipmonks before heading to Winthrop to poke around the shops.  We visited the glass blower, who demonstrated how to create a glass ornament.  It seemed simple when watching him; and we purchased one which was mostly bright yellow to complement the two from previous visits.  An hour at Trail’s End independent bookseller, then a wander down the street for dinner at The Old Schoolhouse Brewery.  Kim and I opted for delicious burgers, and Bonnie went for the fish and chips.  Day 3:  the steepest hike ever, Slate Creek Mountain, about 17 miles up the river road from Twisp, started at 2925′ and rose 3700′ in just three miles (average gradient of 23.5%).  Ouch… there were views through the trees as we ascended, and a marvelous view from the first top at 6625′.  But after just thirty minutes, it was time to head back down, which wasn’t much quicker because it was so steep!

Photos here:  http://photos.corgipup.com/2012/klipchuck/