Nature Calls Backpacking

Hammock Camping on Oyster Dome, Blanchard Mt. with the REI Quarter Dome Air Hammock

Beautiful trip up Blanchard Mountain near Bellingham, Washington.  The goal was to make it to Oyster Dome a bare cliff on one side of the mountain overlooking the San Juan Islands.  The trail started off with some good calf burning climbs, then turned into a very pleasant stroll across the mountain top.  This trip I brought a few new items and a few old.  First the REI Quarter Dome Air Hammock went up like a breeze. I found a chute near the cliff that had trees lining up and found two perfect ones to hang.  Made for a unique hang which is always fun.  Insulated with an air pad from Big Agnes and used my old Cats Meow down mummy bag.  Took a break to do a live stream as I had coverage, then later around the Biolite had another great live chat.  I was hoping for some epic sunsets but had to settle for overlooking the islands and the big freighters at anchor. The lights were fantastic.  Woke up to a cloud and wind and rain so went for the other half of the loop finding some great spots at Lily Lake for a future outing.  I also was using the MSR Trailshot which is a big improvement over the Sawyer Squeeze in my opinion.

Overall a beautiful mountain with some awesome trails and of course the amazing views.