Night Hike to Clay

2007-01-14 08:13:04.000 – Mike Finnegan,  Summit Intern

Undercast Sunset

Well, we’re back in the clouds this morning, much like we were yesterday morning. However, we were graced with clear skies for the afternoon and evening yesterday, adding some color to the otherwise grey and white landscape. Being such a beautiful night and happily satiated from yet another incredible meal cooked by Steve Moore, this week’s volunteer, Neil and I decided it was best to go for a jaunt over to Clay – there could have been no better idea. Orion stood crisp and bright, towering over the Obs, clearly taking aim at poor ol’ Taurus. Bright flashes of white light could be seen over towards Lincoln, NH, resembling fireworks, but lacking the color – kind of interesting. The lights of Stowe on Mount Mansfield in VT could be seen far in the distance. The most interesting thing we saw was a rime formation on a pair of rocks. The feathers were of the most delicate nature. Due to the slow process of sublimation, the feathers had taken on a form resembling one of the most beloved flowers, the Indian Pipe. The white of the rime stood in stark contrast to the harrowing darkness deep in the depths of the Great Gulf. In time, we made our way to the summit of Clay, reminisced about trailless travel, and trekked on back to our home on the Rock Pile, calm and satisfied.

Mike Finnegan,  Summit Intern