opefully, this unfinished tale’s conclusion won’t take too much longer (but probably a few more years, other unfinished tales have jumped ahead in line…)
Due to our basic lack of “success” here, this place taught us how to step into vistas and be aware of the surrounding greatness.
In the spring of 2005 Willow and I were searching for an unexplored (for us) mountain range to spend a week or two climbing in the summer. We wanted big stones and big places full of light and wind. At the time we were living in the SE corner of Washington state in the delightful<insert sarcastic tone(I apologize if you live in here)> town of Pullman situated in the hilly palouse country. Perusing maps of British Columbia I stumbled upon a small green blob labeled “Valhalla Provincial Park”. Internet searches revealed some info, mainly the amazing south ridge of Gimli. A trip to WSU’s library gained access to the Canadian Alpine Journal which opened other route possibilities. Photographs showed spectacular a massive chunk of rock, inspiring from all angles. We found our range.
Unfortunately an Alaska opportunity came along that summer (some things you just can’t pass up) so no big trips to the Valhallas were had (I don’t mean to bitch about an Alaskan opportunity…) but with Valhallas only 6hrs away a couple of weekends were in order!
4th of July weekend. What better way for Americans to celebrate our Nation’s founding than by making a dash for the border. I’ve always loved the high mountains, but the this place felt unique. It looked different than all the other mountain ranges. It looked mythical. Hence, the Valhallas were aptly names, as per wikipedia “Valhalla is a majestic, enormous hall located in Asgard, ruled over by the god Odin”…”those that die in combat travel to Valhalla upon death.” This is place of beauty gracious enough to permit mortal visitation.
Sleepy late friday night driving (a required skill for the weekend alpinist) and all the joys that brings carried us northward into Canada. After sleeping in a park somewhere in BC we arrive at the trailhead saturday morning where fantastic views awaited (just not for doggies, see photo below)
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 Willow is very excited about Gimli Credit: Tozo |
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follow the link....
Valhallas
