Racing Across the Desert
Death Valley stories, from teatime in the back country to rocks that are racing across the desert. The mystery of Racetrack Playa still has unanswered questions. It is up to us all to protect it.
Death Valley stories, from teatime in the back country to rocks that are racing across the desert. The mystery of Racetrack Playa still has unanswered questions. It is up to us all to protect it.
Frank Sam’s Cabin is on Kootzaduka’a land, the tribe that encompasses Mono Lake. It is a story of endurance, both for the lake that faced depletion for Los Angeles taking its waters and for the People who struggled to maintain their tribal identity even as their land was taken. Even today they seek federal recognition.
The Machado Postpiles were once a secret in the western Sierra. Even after the postpiles were revealed, they remained hidden for a long time. Today, the route is known, but the Sierra does not give up its secrets easily, requiring acts of faith on a trail loosely defined by cairns. The reward is to walk past the granite expanse, to stand on postpiles that are 13 million years old. It is to experience wonder.
From Alaska - Part of my soul will always be there. These logs include stories of the Sleeping Lady, the ethics of the Iditarod, and Denali.
When kayak-caching I heard this song in my mind: “The Albion River is the Queen of Rivers All.” But it was also true that the Albion Snag is king of all the snags. Even if you don’t find a container, remember the song and its its refrain, “we are somebody o.”
Emily’s Bridge Returns, a Vermont covered bridge with a ghost story. There may or may not be no ghosts, but even its popularity as an instagram site cannot detract from its mystique. And in the background, you might hear a song for Emily . . .
Dobby’s Grave emerged as a spontaneous tribute to a fictional character who was real enough to be mourned. He became a symbol that went beyond the book or movie. JK Rowling needs to talk to Dobby about the importance of freedom and respect.