If the climb to the top of Second Burroughs was extra effort, we’re on our way to exhaustion. The trail drops downhill first before the climb of around 800ft in elevation begins. My mind is kept occupied by simply lifting my head and trying to grasp the enormity of the peak in front of me.

Jade and I reach the top of jagged rocks and find a spot to reenergize and enjoy our view. Not wanting to climb down just yet, we take the opportunity for a few dozen more photos and rehydration. Admittedly, as far as water, I’m now on empty and Jade has very little. The hike in total was a little longer than we were expecting. It’s hard to say goodbye to a place as fantastic as this, but the sun is setting and it’s time to start our return.

On the way back down, in part to keep my mind off my lack of water, I litter Jade’s brain with questions about his photography. He graciously gives me a lot of advice and insight on his experience in the industry. I find this sort of mentorship invaluable as a learning photographer. It makes me feel a little less lost in a seemingly Wild West sort of industry.

Level One

January 11th, 2018

Six days of paddling

January 11^th, 2018