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My first real alpine hike of the season fell on a hot day. As soon as my two friends and I broke above treeline, our pace slowed in the sweltering sun. Our dogs happily dug and rolled in lingering patches of snow along the trail, and I was tempted to join them. But after 4,000 feet of torrid climbing, we were treated with ridgeline views of Mt. Baker, Mt. Shuksan, and the North Cascades.
And then, as we took in the summit splendor, my friend asked, “Anyone want a root beer float?”
She pulled a surreptitious Thermos and bottle out of her backpack, along with collapsible cups and spoons. At 6,000 feet, she poured three ice cold, creamy servings and passed them around. It was as foamy and sweet as a fresh float from the scoop shop, and it was a total surprise.
While I love pushing myself on the trail, some of my favorite summer hikes are the ones where I remember not to take it too seriously. These dog days are the best for walking slow, foraging berries, jumping in that lake, and sharing treats with friends.
Want to pack a frozen treat on your next hike? Follow these tips:
- Freeze your insulated bottle overnight prior to filling it. This will help the contents stay frozen longer. A wide-mouth bottle makes for easier scooping.
- Soda cans are crushable, but pack a resealable bottle if you don’t plan to finish it in one sitting.
- If you’ve got a long spoon for camping meals, pack it to avoid sticky fingers.
If you really want to surprise your hiking partners, follow my friend’s lead and keep your haul a secret. Wait for the perfect moment to present your frozen feast, and you’ll create a summer memory that’ll last.