Well, it's that time of year again, and Ian pulled through for the second year in a row with a Smith River permit. Fortunately, with Ian's persistence he was able to get a cancelled launch spot. He pulled the permit less then 7 days before we were supposed to launch. Needless to say, it's a miracle that I was able to go. Fortunately, I happened to be in between projects and could afford to take 5 days off; but the Friday before isn't much notice.

The float was absolutely amazing! On Sunday Zach, Beej, Crash and I rounded up our gear and headed up to Camp Baker pulling a raft and canoe behind us. Once we got to Camp Baker we linked up with Ian and Emily. Early Monday morning, and by early I mean noon, we launched starting our first 12 mile day down the Smith River.

The morning after we launched I woke up to snow, not much and it didn't fall for long, but it was a bit of a surprise. I also woke up to an absessed tooth, ugh. Other then that morning, the weather was fantastic! It was still getting a bit cold at night, and I noticed frost on my tent and sleeping bag. However, during the day it was in the 50's or 60's and into 70's after the first couple days.

On the last night, Thursday and also Ian's birthday, we found a trail that led us up to the top of a canyon wall that was way above our camp. The view from there was just awesome! I got some pics of it, disappointed that I didn't take along the SLR though. Next year perhaps.

All I can say is this was a much needed vacation and I'm stoked that I could spend it on the Smith. This is my second year in a row and I hope to go again next year. It's the most beautiful river I've been on and the camping spots are sweet! I didn't take as many pics as I wanted to, but you can check them out here.