My North Cascades Story - My Love of the Mountains

By Rufus Woods, Editor of Wenatchee World Newspaper

My love of the mountains was kindled at an early age by my father, who took the time to introduce me to the North Cascades.

Over the years, we went backpacking, took horse trips and day hikes throughout the region. I learned so much by the examples he set, from how to pace yourself for a long-distance hike to figuring out the best place for a camp site. His mantra has always been, "Slow and steady wins the race."

I've come to appreciate even more the spectacular place we call the North Cascades. It's truly a treasure and I have my father to thank for introducing me to its wonders. At the same time, I feel a special responsibility to pass that knowledge on to the next generation and hopeful kindle in others that same sense of respect, awe and appreciation for wilderness.