Rippy Trail

 My hiking buddy Frank is having back surgery tomorrow, which will keep him grounded for a while. So, he wanted to go for a last hike before the surgery. Dan invited him to hike the Rippy Trail today and Frank invited me to go along. I started to hike this trail years ago but got turned around very quickly at the first creek crossing. Today, the creek was still pretty high, but we managed to find our way across without getting wet feet. Frank helped Bella across. On the 2nd creek crossing, Dan helped Bella across. On the way back, Bella crossed that 2nd creek by herself, and Dan carried her for the 1st one. Our whole hike was 7 miles round trip. We turned around at the end of the official Rippy Trail. But a small foot path continues along the edge of the mountains for a few miles farther. We walked out onto a little hill that gave us a great view of the many lakes out in the area. I have either kayaked or canoed most of them. It was interesting to see them from this direction. The trail was mostly frozen soil that would turn to mud if the temperature warmed up. The highest we got today was somewhere in the low 30's. I was starting to get really cold and was happy to finally turn back. We may have gone farther but Frank needed to get home to get ready for his surgery tomorrow. It was really a fun hike with 2 guys who have many wonderful hiking stories that they shared with me. I look forward to my next hike with Frank and Dan. Bella enjoyed running along with Frank's dog Maya too.

Jim Creek Bridge

Jim Creek from the Bridge

Dall Sheep

Dall Sheep

Frank Me and Dan