Alpine Dawn

The magic of a new day

I know I will have lots to write and share from my 66 mile backpack on the Tahoe Rim Trail. It was brutal + beautiful and endlessly meaningful. I yearn to return and complete more of this 175 mile trek.

As inspiration tumbles around within me, one moment stood out. It was day 4 and it was to be our biggest and hardest day (and boy did it live up to that!). In a few moments before dawn, it was only magic. The type of moment that quickens the pulse even as it slows down time amplifying the wonder that surrounds me.

I’ll share an image below and my poem-ish feelings about it.

Alpine Dawn

Even waking in darkness
does not seem early
when a wonder like this is
waiting in the wings.

Colorful first light
at 9400 feet no less.

Held by the trees
the steep cliffs
that give the Sierras shape.
With the watchful eye 
of the full moon still upon us.

Deep reds, yellows, orange
envelop the horizon.
Then a fiery orb peek-a-boos
from beneath a peak in the distance.

This moment.
This place.
This beauty.

The glorious gift of a new day.
Always magnificent,
Never promised.
But THIS!
Here with these people
at this moment in time.
In places of my dreams.

No words
Only visceral feelings
of communion
euphoria
gratitude
awe and wonder.
Within minutes the show is over.
Sun visible
temperatures rise
and blues overtake the canvas in the sky.

Did that really happen?
Is this real?
Am I even here?

Realer than the thousands of moments imagining it.

I hope this gives you a moment of imagined beauty and peace in your day.