Monarch mountain, looking over Atlin lake and mountain.
By Sophie Werner, Cleveland State University
I came to Atlin, B.C. from a very flat, busy city. Even those of us who didn’t where struck by the power, beauty, and peace of the mountains as we flew over them. It is utterly remarkable to wake up and look out of your tent, surrounded by huge mountains and such a beautiful landscape right in front of you. Riding into the town of Atlin, we turn a corner and see a picturesque mountain through the middle of the town. While sitting and having a lecture, we can glance out the window of the cabin and it looks like a stock photo. Without doing much at all these views are at hand and the first two mountains we climbed gave us a new perspective on these sights – and so much more.
Monarch and Ruby Mountains were very different. The climb up Monarch was almost entirely below the tree line. We were surrounded by tall vegetation, such as subalpine firs and lodgepole pines. I learned to recognize so many new plant species. When we started to climb up Ruby mountain we soon passed the tree line. The ground was completely covered by lichen like a crunchy, mushy carpet. As we started to ascend to the top, the mountain became very steep, made up of red volcanic rock. We passed the caldera to the summit of the volcano where there was very little vegetation. There was a beautiful view of what seemed to be endless mountains. On the climb and the drive to the mountain we saw stone sheep, grizzly bears, black bears, and so much more.
I had never climbed a mountain as high as the ones I have now. I have had so many amazing “firsts” in my short time here. First time sleeping in a tent for more than four nights. First time wearing gaiters while hiking. First time being in British Columbia. First time going on a birding hike. First time drinking so much water regularly. First time hiking on an Island. Ohh and the water! I could go on for hours; Atlin Lake is so many spectacular shades of blue. Deep blue, crystal clear, aqua, turquoise, green, and milky light blue flowing in patches from one place to another.
The adventure has only just begun, and I can’t wait to see where it leads me and us all as we grow and get to know each other. I have pushed by myself so far already and I look forward to seeing how much further I can go!