Tonelli's Travels

All of the sudden the road started to climb up, up, up. Before us rose chunky stone mountains that met each other in deep forested valleys. The road wound its way between these magnificent creations. Creating it must have been a feat. We climbed up until we submitted Washington Pass, and then slowly and steadily rolled down. 

During our drive the weather slowly changed and thick clouds covered the sky, deepening in their grayness as we went onward. By the time we reached our first viewpoint, Diablo Lake, it was chilly, windy, and sprinkling. The weather wouldn’t deter me from exploring! I hopped around in my shorts from sign to sign, learning all I could while admiring the turquoise water that stretched before me. North Cascades National Park was amazing me from the very first attraction. 

Due to the weather, we opted to check out the visitors’ center. It seems everyone else had the same plan! It was busy! But we managed to gather hiking information and enjoy the introductory video, which taught us about the tribes that connect to this land and how they interact with it to this day. 

After settling into our campsite, my dad and I went for a short walk to a rock shelter. This historical location was once used as a hunting camp by indigenous people. Right by the river, they likely stopped here to rest, fish, and weave before heading to higher elevations to hunt. History is all around us. 

We then continued down the trail, winding along the creek. Tall old growth trees stretched above us, giants grown over decades. Straight and solid, it’s a wonder to think these massive trees grew from tiny seeds. If only they could talk, I’m sure they’d have many stories to tell. 

That night we tucked ourselves in to our beds, wrapped in warm blankets