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The Pasayten Wilderness, in North Central Washington was the destination for the O'Keefe family reunion for the summer of 2002.
My mother Ann, brother John and his wife Jeanette and their daughter Jacqueline, joined Judith and myself. John and family live in Twisp, Washington and had done a horse pack trip in 2001 with a local outfitter, Steve Darwood. They suggested a family trip to the Pasayten Wilderness for it's great scenery, wildflowers and fishing.
On July 26 we met at the trailhead and saddled up for the 17 mile ride to Steve's high country camp. Everyone, except Ann and myself, own horses but we all used Steve's trail seasoned pack mules and horses, as they know the way and routine.
From a very comfortable base camp we would ride each day to various lakes in the area. John and I brought float tubes that came in handy at several lakes. There were plenty of cutthroat and rainbow trout from 8 to 17 inches and stories from Steve about lakes "over yonder" that had 7 pound cutthroat . . . next time.
The scenery was spectacular! High alpine trails with views of snow capped peaks in Washington and Canada. Even in mid-summer, the hills were bright green with patches of snow and acres upon acres of wildflowers. In every direction were miles of red, blue and yellow flowers. I was also fortunate to have several nice mule deer bucks wander in front of my lens.
We had typical weather for the high country: Mostly sunny, with a little rain, warm days and cool nights.
All told, we road 75 miles on horseback, visited about a half dozen lakes, ate great camp cooking and had lots of good family time.
If your family and/or friends are interested in getting off the beaten path, contact Steve Darwood at 509-997-0155. Steve also guides hunters in the fall.
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