Ruth Lake 2022

Even though our family had way too much to do, we slipped away Labor Day weekend for an overnight backpacking trip into the Uintas.  The mile long trek to our "special spot" on Ruth Lake has become a beloved family tradition.  We were scarcely gone for 24 hours, yet in that time we were able to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with one another.

Three amigos.

The sun was beginning to set as we made our way to Ruth Lake, bathing the Uintas in evening light.

For me, this really is the happiest of places.

You know you've made it when...

Setting up camp.

It turned out that both our water filter and camp stove struggled, so getting dinner started was a challenge.  (Thank heavens for iodine tablets and bonfires.)  Not to be thwarted from our culinary conquests, we forged ahead with the Jello cheesecake.

After a chilly night's sleep, we warmed up in the morning with oatmeal and hot chocolate.

Nothing like a huddle to bring siblings closer together.

Before long, we hiked the mile out, only to drive a spell and hike some more.  I'd come up with the crazy notion that we ought to hike Bald Mountain.

Rising to 11,943 feet, you can see why the mountain is called bald.

What I didn't expect was the amazing vista with dozens of lakes spanning in each direction.  I believe that the large lake pictured below is Mirror Lake.

Annika was feeling quite pokey so Brooklyn, Talia, and Eli went ahead.

They were quite happy to lie down and relax while waiting for Annika to reach the summit.

I'm just grateful they didn't roll right off!

Meanwhile Annika was having a rest of her own.  Heaven bless Jason for his endless patience.

I'm quite certain this little gal has no idea how good she has it.

I married a superhero.

Photo shoot!  I adore this crew.

They adore me too, especially when I bring tasty snacks.

One hike back down the mountain, a second back to Ruth Lake, and it was time for some relaxing lake time.  While Annika checked out the dragonflies, I checked out the hammock.

Ruth Lake, thank you once more for another lovely backpacking weekend.

We'll cherish the memories for years to come.  

Check out prior Ruth Lake adventures here: 2017, 2018, 2020.  My heart melted looking at how little the kids were the first time we went!