Mt. Baker - 10'700' ...check!

Wow, this photo is almost an antique. When I first moved to Washington, I was invited to climb Mt. Baker with a group, and I decided that would make a terrific FIRST "backpacking" trip. I had literally never even carried a pack before. Needless to say, I was lacking in the gear/knowledge/wear a helmet department. Luckily, the gods were on my side that day ... I made it up and down with no problems ... and from that moment on, I've been hooked ... if I can't see the top, it needs to be climbed!