Weather days

By: Kyler Christensen

By KAVU

November 8^th, 2022

I've always enjoyed heading into the mountains when the weather is changing. Most people might think that hiking in the rain or the snow would be a less than ideal, but for me, it provides an experience to observe the changing environment.

A few years ago, my dad invited me to hike the Grand Canyon with him. As we started, the clouds blocked our view and we descended without seeing the depth and beauty. As we broke the clouds we were greeted with a downpour of rain that soaked us to the bone, but we also were able to finally see the view we'd come for.

The rain had created waterfalls down the cliff faces, as well as streams and movement not present without the rain. We realized the unique circumstances.... and that few people had likely experienced this place in this way.

Water is life, and was the heartbeat of the canyon that day.

This week.... during our first winter storm here in Utah, I decided to get out on a solo hike in the rain because the colors of fall always pop on overcast days. My goal was to make it up to the snowline, and as I climbed in elevation, the rain turned to slush, and then finally.... the fast-falling drops slowed to a quiet drift.

Alone on the trail, the experience of that first snow was incredible to be a part of and reminded me of that day in the rain with my dad, and the lessons learned.

Having made it to the snow, I continued toward a waterfall, but didn’t stay long as the slush had me cold and wet. Getting down wasn't as enjoyable, but the experience stayed with me. Time in the mountains always seems to teach me, and lessons are earned.

"Weather days" tend to be unpopular for getting out to explore, but through a little discomfort we gift ourselves these experiences which help us connect and understand the changing environment around us.