UPDATE: Backpacking in the PNW

 Whoops!  I forgot to post this update.  Ben took all the girls on one last backpacking trip to Elk Cove. They secured a sought-after spot for their tents, which was right next to a stream.  Each girl had a different job while setting up camp.  McKinley pitched both tents, Piper organized the food and cooking station, and Tessa retrieved water and assembled a water bottle filling station. They hiked a total of ten miles round trip and ran into several interesting people including a woman who founded a local company based in Beaverton called Tribal Sasquatch and a professional photographer.  Adventures, such as backpacking, make wonderful memories, and I'm so grateful that Benji prioritizes these times with our girls!

Backpacking in the PNW

 The tradition lives on!  Only this summer it looked a little different than before.  This year McKinley got to go backpacking with Daddy by herself, and Tessa joined Piper for her first backpacking trip.  McKinley and Benji ventured into the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, which surrounds Mt. Adams in WA.  (This was also a scouting trip for potential, future camping expeditions!) They had planned on doing two nights, but the mosquitoes were too much to bear, even with bug spray.  McKinley had such a severe reaction to the bites that the one on her eyebrow prevented her from opening up her eye the next morning! They saw mountain goats and hiked a total of fifteen miles.  Piper and Tessa journeyed into the Mt. Hood National Forest beginning their hike to Elk Cove at Cloud Cap.  They had the privilege of crossing the infamous Elliot River, along with many other smaller river crossings! Most of the people they met on the trail were very impressed with the girls.

July 8, 2020 ~ Off they go!

July 24, 2021 ~ Off they go!

Crossing the Elliot River.

Fill-up-your-water bottle station!