Desolation: The Cabin

This summer [author angrily shakes fist at backlog of photos], we escaped the hubbub of life in Reno and spent a couple nights up in Desolation Wilderness and thereabouts. Besides Murphy and me, our crew included Chase, Lauren, Evan, and Nate, which, unless you're affiliated with any of these people, is a totally meaningless sentence. Anyhow, our goal was to enjoy the playground that is the greater Desolation neighborhood and to return to Reno better people for having done so.

Chase's parents have an awesome little cabin along the far end of Lower Echo Lake, just shy of the wilderness boundary. When I say that it's a little cabin, I don't mean that it's a $6M Tahoe chateau that we call "the cabin" because that makes us sound so grounded, especially when we're within earshot of poor people. It's a little one-room cabin in the woods, which I would generously estimate contains 300 square feet. Wait, hang on. 310 square feet, as we need to count the outhouse. There is running water (spring-fed, pure, and cold), but there is no electricity, so the nights are lit by lantern and occasional fire pit action.

As basic as it is, it's perfect in every way. It has served Chase's family, their guests, and prior owners well as both a getaway and a jumping-off point for additional adventure. I relish being invited there, every time, simply because it serves its purpose so well.

And it's a great place to leave gear when we go on side missions. Which are frequent. This time, we have planned a mission for the night after our arrival up to a very special spot in Desolation, so that gives us a night to hang out at the cabin, eat some good food, and kick back while the night sky does its thing.

First, though, allow me to introduce you to the cabin. I've made it look as spacious as is humanly possible.


Welcome (actually, this was not a simple photo)

From the cabin, many delicious sights (and quick hikes, if you're so inclined) are within easy reach. Granite and storm-battered trees abound.


Still standing

And many a fine meal have come out of the "kitchen."


Evidence

The cabin is within about a 45-second walk of the cold and clear waters of Lower Echo Lake, but there will be no swimming tonight. Mainly because we're at 7000' and the air cools quickly without the big bright warm thing in the sky.

Thus, our common nighttime activity is to sit back, have a beer, and watch the world turn.


Home sweet home (also, iPhone flashlight on the photo assist)

In my mind, the cabin serves three great purposes. It is hotly anticipated as we approach, as it means that good times and good friends are about to intersect. It is warmly appreciated when we're there, simply as there's not much to complain about. And it is a welcome sight upon return from any adventure, as it means fresh socks, a cooler full of fresh food, and a plunge into the lake.

So now that you know about the cabin and why it's awesome, we can move on to our trip up into the mountains. Stay tuned!

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