The first week after school started, I was feeling frazzled.
“How am I ever going to make it through this semester?” I thought to myself on a regular basis. During the week, I am often busy from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and it causes me to be rather tired. However, I refuse to work weekends so I can get a grip on my sleeping habits and recharge my batteries.
It was the weekend and I needed some physical activity. My fiance and I drove our little ol’ ‘65 Volvo up a mountain where no modern car should go to find our newest adventure (OK, so it was a hike we had done once before but every time is a new adventure). After making it up the treacherous road we finally reached the trailhead.
Hunt Lake. It is one of the most beautiful areas around; the problem is actually getting to it. It is two miles of jumping from one bus-sized rock to another, never knowing what will be on the other side. It’s a crazy experience, slipping and sliding with a 60-pound bag toppling over from time to time. When the destination is reached, the adrenalin and the sweat just used makes it all worth it.
The end of the road, the edge of the trees, the clearing opening to rock slides and a beautiful little lake that only the dedicated ever get to see. The rock slides are places for adventure.
When you climb to the high peaks, breathtaking views of Priest Lake and many miles of untouched forest inspire the mind and fulfill the soul. The only company expected is the deer laying in the tall grass and ground squirrels that constantly chatter their little voices, screaming off the walls from all directions.
Hunt Lake is an awesome experience. I would suggest it to anyone willing to sweat and bleed for an exhilarating weekend going back to ancestral roots as explorers and adventurers. But it’s not the only experience possible in the area.
Here in the panhandle of Idaho we are surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States. As a college student I sometimes get lost in homework and other school and work-related activities. However, we all need to remember where we are! We are only young once so let’s all make sure we get out and appreciate what we have.
Priest Lake is only about an hour and a half away. Around Priest Lake are many hiking trails ranging from short 100-yard strolls up to Hunt Creek Falls to miles of rock hopping.
For hikers and backpackers, both experienced and inexperienced, there is room to grow and learn about yourself and your world. So get out and get back to your roots. We are heroes, we are dreamers and we are built to push ourselves to the limits.
