Back, left to right - Paul Keller, Greg Milliman. Center, left to right - Wayne Deeter, Gerry Roe (leader), Colleen Milliman, Birgette Schmid. Front, left to right - Patty MacAfee, Jim Pierce.
Back, left to right - Paul Keller, Greg Milliman.
Center, left to right - Wayne Deeter, Gerry Roe (leader), Colleen Milliman, Birgette Schmid.
Front, left to right - Patty MacAfee, Jim Pierce.
Mt McLoughlin from the east, showing the ridgeline trail.
Mt McLoughlin Climb Report by Gerry Roe
Strength, determination and inspiration come to us in different ways. When we climb or hike, the resiliency of the nature around us fills our hearts with peace and power. Sometimes special people instill a similar feeling. This was the case during our 3900-foot climb on Mt McLoughlin.
Colleen Milliman joined our group to climb her first volcano at 75 years young. She reached the 9495 feet peak in 5 hours and 10 minutes. Colleen was an inspiration to our team, as well as many others we met along the way. This gracious and vivacious woman won our hearts with her positive attitude and love of life.
Rather than telling you about the climb here are comments by different individuals. These remarks tell the story from their hearts: "What a true inspiration", "A most exuberant, glorious 360 degree view", "Always nice to be on top!", "Another pleasant hike in the woods", "A fabulous day-great weather", "The wind through the summit pines spoke like a church choir", "My initiation to volcanoes", "A bit closer to Heaven, spectacular views", and "Life always finds a way (referring to the wildflowers growing high on the mountain)".
This truly was a memorable day for us. It was a joy and privilege to witness the feat of a first time climber at age 75. Mt McLoughlin will always hold a special spot in my heart. First time mountain climbers were member Patty MacAfee, and soon to be members: Birgette Schmid (from Austria), Paul Keller and Colleen Milliman. Members Wayne Deeter, Greg Milliman, Jim Pierce (assistant leader) and Gerry Roe (leader).
The ridgeline trail from above.
North side of the mountain, carved out by ancient glaciers.
Fourmile and Squaw Lakes, and Pelican Butte.
Remains of lookout, Lower Klamath Lake in background.
Rim of Crater Lake, Mt Thielsen in background.
Mt Shasta.
Colleen makes 9495 ft.
Climb leader, Gerry Roe.
Wayne Deeter.
Paul Keller. (Photo by G Roe)
Birgette Schmid. (Photo by G Roe)
Greg and Colleen Milliman. (Photo by G Roe)
Jim Pierce. (Photo by G Roe)
Patty MacAfee.
Going back down is as much fun as going up!
Gerry's tree.
Photos by Wayne Deeter, except as otherwise noted.
Last Modified September 10, 2001