Grandest Canyon

Cheers to the first time seeing the Grandest Canyon.  It was beautiful.

It was definitely my favorite hike I have ever done.  Also the longest and toughest hike I have ever done.  Here are some more specs on our trip:

  • 1 amazing Canyon Maker
  • 1400 miles traveled to get there
  • 34 miles hiked
  • 7  awesome dudes
  • 45lb pack
  •  20 liters of water consumed
  • 10-12 miles hiked/day
  • 323 photos taken
  • 10,120 ft of elevation change
  • 2 tents
  • 1 monster blizzard was on our heels
  • 2 checked bags on the plane
  • 3 days of phenomenal Canyon views
  • 1 Colorado river

Nike Missile Site S-13/14

This is not the "Nike" you and I know.  Just do it... Nope not this time.  We are talking Nike Hercules missiles with nuclear warheads.  Yep. Nuclear. 

Back during the 50's, 60's, and 70's, the United States deployed these Nike supersonic missiles to act as a powerful defense for the Puget sound area.  This Redmond site was a double launch site with twice the missiles.  The site was in operation from 1958-1974.  Now, the site consists of flooded razor-wire protected silos and a dozen or so abandoned buildings.  Being able to explore such a site was almost magical.