Episode One, Part Two, Journey to Zion by Tommy Michel
24 May 1980, Potato Hollow, Zion Mountain. Elevation 7100 feet.
AWAKE TO A BEAUTIFUL suntouch with glistening rays extending outward in every direction. In the distance, ominous dark clouds approach and soon cloak the sun causing a darkness to come upon my campsite.
(j1-20091002.1551) The Zion Mountain, Utah
Soon after I awake, sleet begins falling, then heavy snow so I break camp immediately, stow my gear, don my backpack, and begin walking. As I begin taking steps, the temperature drops apace. Because of not being outfitted for winter travel or camping, I must needs find a path off this mountain.
What I am experiencing now as I depart from my camp is a white winter quietness so wonderfully beautiful and peaceful. However, it is a deceptive peacefulness. As I have learned in previous winter conditions, I must needs keep walking so as not to fall victim to the deceit that the boreal wind portrays.
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