It was a winter wonderland on a mid-November day. Temperatures in the 20’s, a cold easterly breeze, dense cloud cover, and best of all – – – hoarfrost covering everything above 1,000 feet. The brilliant white coasting of ice crystals brought a sense of magic to the mountain environment.

But, back to the beginning. The Kreps Family, owners of a large cattle ranch north of Bingen, Washington are kind enough to open their property to hikers. The area is beautiful, south-facing, Oak Savannah with much steep terrain.

The trail, a 8.7-mile lollipop loop, passes over the summit of 2,300-foot Burdoin Mountain. Hiking leader extraordinaire Debbie gets credit for bringing this fine hike to my attention several years ago.

On a clear day the bright white summits of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams would punctuate the skyline, and views would extend miles down the Columbia River Gorge. Instead, I was treated to the natural beauty of hoarfrost artistry.

This is why we hike in the outdoors in all seasons.