Tag: outdoors

Watch “I Just Want To Ride – Lael Wilcox and the 2019 Tour Divide” on YouTube

Carl Setzer

I adore cycling. Its been key part of my life since my mid-tweens. I’ve ridden in many states (Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Florida amongst others). For most of my twenties I refused to own a car. At one point my bike was the most important thing in my life. Now, things have changed. But I still love life with two wheels.

As a younger chap, a two week ride from Canada to Mexico would’ve seemed awesome. So, discovering Tour Divide captivated me. Discovering Lael Wilcox, the star of the video below, also delights me. I’m looking forward to exploring more of her riding life.

So, this is a great story and ride. I recommend the video below. And I’ll have more to say I’ve watched her other stuff. But go ahead and started. Don’t wait for me! Oh, and let me know what you think, any other riders out there you think I should check out, any suggestions would be very welcome.

Green Mountain Lookout: An Article In Today’s Everett Herald

Carl Setzer

Just read “Summit stewards make the steep trek to Green Mountain Lookout“. Ah, visions of Kerouac on Desolation Peak! Well, this isn’t quite so literary, I guess.

If you don’t know Kerouac’s connection to the Pacific Northwest, below are few links for you (and if you don’t know Jack Kerouac, please fix that. I always start such things with Wikipedia).

Anyway, I enjoyed the article, probably in no small part due to my literary fascinations. This looks like a fun, if aggressive hike. And staying on top of a mountain (I doubt there’s wifi) would be a great way to decompress. For me, personally, after this season’s hikes, I realize I’m not quite in good enough shape for hikes like this one. I’m building back up, though.

Below is a video of the current occupants of the lookout (as of the article’s writing, at least) created by the good folks at the Everett Herald.

 

https://vimeo.com/358390009

If you’re inspired to make this hike, check out the WTA’s (Washington Trails Association) page for the Green Mountain trail. And if you’re interested in the Kerouac/Beat pilgrimage to Desolation Peak, the WTA has your covered, too.

Edmonds Kind of Play: Quiet Heart Wilderness School’s beloved Hawkeye ready to say farewell – My Edmonds News

Carl Setzer

Quiet Heart Wilderness School’s beloved Hawkeye ready to say farewell

Funny that I don’t recall ever meeting “Hawkeye” in my journeys about Edmonds. I feel a bit lesser as I read about him in this article.

This local school and daycare program is a unique enterprise, and one I’m glad will continue under competent hands. Hands that share its creator’s vision.

Walks, Hikes, Life, Community

Carl Setzer

Earlier today I talked with an acquaintance about walking. He, like me, loves to walk. Lately, it’s been my main form of exercise. I’m a bit wimpier than my chum, not really willing to walk when it’s pouring. Perhaps I need to invest in some rain gear. But, being outside… that’s beauty.

Hiking brings joy to do many. There was this chap, Paul, who loved the AT (Appalachian Trail). After he died, far too young, his wife had the idea for his boots to take to the trail. A call went out, the great community that resides on the trails stepped up. Facilitated by the folks at REI, the collective took the journey and have shared it with us. Watch and listen with your heart. It’s worth it.

A Walk In Whatcom Falls Park 

Carl Setzer

I’m up in Bellingham for the next few days. One of my favorite cities with great biking, hiking, and all kinds of dining options.  A fun place to be outside. 

Most of these shots were taken at Whatcom Falls park, with a few taken in Fairhaven. 

I love the way these tree roots grew over these rocks


This quote by Cicero sits at the entrance to Village Books.


Along Marysville’s Ebey Waterfront Trail

Carl Setzer1 Comment

This afternoon I was able to break away from my desk and walk the nearby Ebey Waterfront Trail here in Marysville. It’s really nice trail, just off the river. Many opportunities for wildlife sightings (especially if you like birds)…I saw two bald eagles, a couple of herons and some other eagles, but they too far away to tell if they were juvenile balds, or goldens or something else.

Some photos from my walk are below, plus a video of the eagles. Though quite warm by western Washington standards, I found it a lovely walk and sunny, cloudless afternoon. Plus, I managed to finish my step goal for the day. A recipe for success, methinks.

New Year’s Weekend

Carl Setzer

It was a pretty calm weekend. Didn’t even hit the gym much, but that wasn’t too bad. Was feeling worn out, so clearly needed rest.

Did make it to REI’s garage sale, scoring some great gear at killer prices. But not much, as the past month had been had a heap of extra expense. In particular, found a bike jacket that I’m tempted to wear everywhere. I have no qualm with uber-bike-nerd status.

Makes me look forward to riding in 2015. I plan on greatly increasing my mileage this year. I’ll map out a more specific goal soon. I also want to ride a few organized rides. I haven’t thought it through much deeper than that.  Now, just wondering if I’ll hit the Chilly Hilly next month.

Also looking forward to the year’sSeattle Bike Expo. Centurylink field should provide a nice, more easily accessible venue. Parking shall be a hoot, but us cyclists, especially the hardcore, will be fine. Plenty of bike racks, I’m sure.

There are a few other outside goals I’m entertaining. Getting some good hikes in really excites me. Ice Caves again, perhaps another trip up to Lake 22, but only looking at day hikes right now. These will be summer based. At least good weather focused.

So, 2015 week be an outside-centric year. How more awesome can you get! See you outside!

Everett’s Jetty Island Opens to Public Saturday

Carl Setzer

Just saw on My Everett News that Jetty Island will be open for the 2014 summer season starting this coming Saturday, July 5th. If you haven’t been there, it’s a great Seattle area day-trip. Come enjoy a fun day with the kids and explore one of the more unique elements to this region.

More information about Jetty Island here.

Rugby, Eh?

Carl Setzer

I’m sitting here in Magnuson Park in Seattle. The early afternoon was spent at Serevi Rugby camp.

I remember coming here often as a boy, back when this was the Sandpoint Naval Station. I’m aware of its history as an air station during World War II, evolving into a support station that seemed to focus on the retiree community. It’s nice to see the space now. Seattle has done good work with the space, but there are hints of the history. I can tell the pavement is original. The age shows clearly. Plus, many of the old buildings are still here. Though, most of them are crumbling and just waiting for the wrecking ball.

A piece of Seattle’s history which is a piece of mine.

[Updated: grammatical edits]