After sitting through 7 weeks of barely getting outside due to a fractured collarbone, I was elated when my doctor told me I could start wearing a backpack again. Of course, I had already been creatively clipping it under my arm to feel some fresh air on my face. But now, instead of getting armpit chafe, I could sling it over my shoulder and find out how a metal plate feels under my skin.

Being over in Idaho for a few weeks to visit my Mom, I had to find something local to try. I knew the state got a lot of snow in the winter, but I thought it would have melted back by now. Unfortunately, all the trailheads I could find in my searches are packed down with snow. So, I settled for a quick walk up Slate mountain outside town.

At the trailhead, I hesitated to put my backpack on. I have been told by my doctor, as well as my PA brother, that the fixation plates can be very uncomfortable underneath a strap. Eventually, I slung it over my shoulder to find out how it would feel.

west fork mink creek

west fork mink creek trail

The first section of the trail appeared well-trodden, so I left my snowshoes in the car. But I would recommend having them on hand. I saw a fair number of post holes in the snow.

For the first mile, I could swear all I felt was the plate in my shoulder. It was a nagging in my head that just kept pulling me away from the scenery. But it would seem hearing all the dire warnings about the plate had just gotten into my head.

The first blast of cold wind that swept past me made me forget about it. That nice deep breath of cold fresh air was the best thing I have felt in months. Oh, what a glorious feeling of that cold air filling my lungs. After that, all thoughts of the plate passed out of my mind, and I walked the next 2 miles without thinking about it.

slate mountain snowshoe track

first view of Slate Mountain

The walk up to the base of Slate mountain was packed down. I never took out my spikes. But, at the bottom of Slate mountain is where the tracks stopped. It seems most who come this far out during the winter are seeking the same thing as me, a summit.

ridge line up slate mountain

first views on the summit walk

Slate mountain isn’t going to knock the socks off any seasoned mountaineer. But for the ease of accessibility, while most roads in the area are closed, you cannot beat the views. For me getting to stand at 7000 feet and breathe in some cold air with a view, was enough to get me excited for the next climb. I cannot wait to wear a backpack again…

waterboy on slate mountain

views from slate mountain