October 19, 2012
Deer Lake Trail, Lakes Basin Recreation Area, Plumas County
Total distance walked: 7 miles

Every now and then, I am blessed with a day that stands out as one of my favorites. One such memorable day was the second day of an autumn camping trip with my youngest son, Andrew.

During a leisurely breakfast we decided to hike the Deer Lake trail.

Armed with two essentials—water and a camera—and a few other items in our daypack, we embarked on the 2 ½ mile, 1,000-foot ascent up the wooded and talus-covered slope to the lake.

As a brisk yet gentle breeze rustled through the trees, we could hear the soothing sound of the leaves. The colors in this area were breathtaking: warm oranges, bright yellows, burnished browns, and velvety maroons.

We crossed four tributaries of Packer Creek, two of which were dry. After an invigorating hike, we were rewarded with a stunning view of the craggy peaks of the Sierra Buttes.

Upon reaching Deer Lake at an elevation of 7,110 feet, Andrew started fishing. I took a moment to sit and absorb the beauty of the surroundings, gazing into the clear, rippling water.

As Andrew continued to cast his line from various spots, I took a leisurely one mile walk around the lake. This area would be perfect for backpacking for those willing to make the trek up the mountain with their gear.

When I returned, I found Andrew on the opposite side of the lake. Once he returned, we quickly retraced our steps downhill and made our way back to the car.

We drove to Lower Sardine Lake, situated at an elevation of 6,000 feet and home to a cozy mountain resort. Andrew wasted no time casting his line while I set the water to boil for our late noodle lunch. Famished from our strenuous hike, we quickly ate at a picnic table near the water with the wind blowing and the sun shining in our eyes.

As the afternoon faded, Andrew headed to the far side of Sardine Lake to fish, while I strolled over to the sand pond. As I walked, memories of picnicking and swimming with each of my children came flooding back. It was a sentimental journey along the one-mile interpretive loop.

Andrew and I reunited at the car within minutes of each other and concluded our day at Packer Lake. We had the place to ourselves, except for the quacking ducks gliding across the water. From the rocks, Andrew managed to catch and release four trout.

Perched on the rocks where I sat watching Andrew, a brightness caught my eye amidst the forest of green.

As I lay my head to rest that night, my heart sang with joy for the magnificence that God allowed me to encounter all day.

This autumn adventure is one I will cherish with fond memories: quality time spent with my son, the Sierra Buttes providing a stunning backdrop to every lake we visited, and the splendid fall colors enhancing an already picturesque landscape.

God is good. All the time. All the time God is good.