Up To The End Of The Road

We have been itching to get out and enjoy these beautiful, snow-covered mountains we live in but with the big storms we've had it hasn't been easy to do. However, after several days of nice sunshine the roads were finally free of snow and ice so we set out this morning for a drive up to the higher elevations.

As we turned onto Hwy 89 and began climbing in altitude the depth of the snow started increasing rapidly. Soon we were winding our way alongside the east fork of the Carson River. As we drove through the canyon we could look down at the dark, clear water as it flowed between its snowy banks and swirled past the various snow-covered boulders that in places sit out in the middle of the river. Occasionally we passed a small rivulet tumbling down the canyon walls and crossing under the road in a culvert on its way to join the river.

When we arrived at the junction of Hwys 89 and 4 we were surprised to discover that although the gate to Hwy 89 over Monitor Pass was closed, the gate to Hwy 4 was open and the road had been plowed. We decide to follow that road and see how far it was open. We knew it wouldn't be far since it quickly climbs up into very rugged areas and crosses the Sierra at Ebbetts Pass. Snow depths easily top 20 or more feet up there. Sure enough, we quickly saw a sign saying the road was closed 2 miles ahead.

We drove on until we came to the closed gate, beyond which the snow on the uncleared road looked to be 3 feet deep. We parked the car and got out where we truly enjoyed some peaceful solitude. For me the experience of being surrounded by the pure white snow, set off with the contrasting dark green pine and fir trees, all under an incredibly clear blue sky is soul invigorating beyond compare.

I believe we shall sleep especially well tonight.

Love and Light,
Lou