Scene of the Climb (25 page)

Three weeks later, with an editorial copy of the next issue tucked under my arm I trotted down the sidewalk to meet Matt, Jill and Will at Deschutes. We'd hit a stretch of summer weather in late May. Patio tables cluttered the sidewalks with happy diners basking in the warmth and lingering light.

At 7:00
P.M
. the sun remained above the horizon. It would be two hours before it set. The sound of laughter and clinking cocktail glasses filled the air. A block from the pub I could smell the hickory scent of barbe-quing meat.

“Over here, Meg!” Jill called from one of the wooden outdoor picnic tables on the far side of the restaurant. Her satin scoop-necked tank top shimmered in the sun. A collection of silver bracelets dangled on her delicate wrists as she waved me over.

She and Will sat facing the sun on one side of the picnic table. Matt scooted next to the open-windowed wall. I squeezed the magazine tighter under my arm as I squished beside him.

“What do you have there?” Matt asked, eyeing the roll of paper sticking out from my armpit.

I threw my hand in the air to stop him from grabbing it. “Wait, I need a beer first.”

“I've got a pitcher coming,” Jill said, squinting in the sunlight. She reached into her purse and pulled out a pair of purple-rimmed Kate Spade sunglasses.

Will made a sound of disgust under his breath. “Beer. Really?”

“Don't worry. I ordered you a martini,” she said, putting her sunglasses on.

Adjusting his tie, Will slid his hand way too high on her thigh and let it rest there. “That's my girl.”

Gross. But I refused to let Will Barrington ruin my moment.

Our drinks arrived a minute later. The waitress sloshed the pitcher of beer and three glasses on the middle of the table. She held a martini in her hand and glanced at Will. “I'm guessing this is for the suit?”

Matt poured pints for Jill and me. I unrolled the magazine and sat on it to flatten the edges out.

Holding his beer in the air, Matt turned to me. “We all have our drinks. Are you going to spill now?”

“Everyone hold up your glasses,” I said, grabbing my beer. “A toast to you! I can't believe how lucky I am to have friends like you. We helped solve a murder, you guys.”

We all clinked glasses.

“Yay for us!” cheered Jill.

Taking a swig, I set my glass down and slammed the magazine on the table. “My first—wait for it—not one, but
two
bylines! I couldn't have done it without you all.”

“That's awesome, Meg!” Jill reached over and kissed my cheek across the table.

Matt scanned the masthead. “Here it is! Margaret Reed, pages 32 and 48. Congrats!”

Will loosened his tie when Matt passed the magazine around. He leafed through my articles and said, “Not bad.”

“Look at your cute photo,” Jill said, pointing to a one-inch square headshot of me grinning at the bottom of the story. “And it says you're the newest addition to
Northwest Extreme
and an intrepid adventurer. Nice!”

The story on page 32 was a one-page synopsis of the murder of Lenny Ray and subsequent arrest of Krissy Miles. She was arraigned on one count of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder. Her case was due to go before a jury next month. My second story was a much longer and detailed account of the entire Race the States crew and experience. In my humble opinion, seeing the photos running alongside it, showcased the majestic untamed beauty of this historic part of the world I called home. I was pleased with the end result and ecstatic to see my work in print for the first time.

After finishing their drinks, Jill and Will excused themselves. They were due to make an appearance at a cocktail party hosted by their law firm. Matt ordered us another celebratory round.

He toasted me again, holding his glass frozen in midair; he grabbed my right hand and gently massaged the scar etched in it like a lifeline. “Your hand's all healed.”

“I know. When I got the stitches removed the doctor couldn't believe how quickly it had healed. Gam, of course, is convinced it's all the Reiki she's been doing on it.” I fingered the scar. “The doctor says this will improve over time but will always be there. Kind of how I feel about Pops, you know?”

Matt circled the scar with his finger. The lightness of his touch gave me goose bumps. “I think it's a mark of how resilient you are. You're one tough cookie, Megs.”

We drank our beers, watching the theater crowd across the street, in an eclectic assortment of outfits from cutoff jeans to floor-length dresses, pour outside for a hit of the evening sun at intermission. Matt became quiet, with a far-off look in his eyes.

“What are you thinking about?”

He sighed and brought his attention to the present. “So many things, Megs. I have something I need to talk to you about, but I'm not sure you're going to want to hear it.”

Oh, no! Why now? Why ruin my perfect night? I knew what Matt wanted to say to me, but I wasn't ready to hear it. Why couldn't our relationship stay the same for a while? We were young. Too young. I had way more to figure out and I wasn't ready to change our relationship yet.

“Matt, listen . . . I—I'm in such a great space tonight. Can we enjoy it for one night?”

I thought he might cry; his eyes welled and he looked away. “Of course, Megs. Believe me. There's nothing I want more than to see you happy. But what I've learned—well, we're going to have to address it soon.”

“Learned?”

“Forget it. You're right. Let's enjoy this amazing night.” He grabbed his pint glass.

“Wait. Now I have to know. What do you mean ‘learned'? What did you learn?”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. Tell me.”

“It's about your dad.”

My heart thumped in my chest. “What about him?”

“I have proof his death wasn't an accident.”

Rule One—Function before fashion.
Sure, those pink-laced Merrells Meg scored were cute, but when it comes to choosing a hiking boot, think fit and function before fashion. New boots should feel stiff at first, but will soften as you break them in. Greg recommends wearing your boots indoors with socks before venturing outside. Once you've worn your boots around the house, try short trips to the grocery store or a walk around the neighborhood. Be sure the boots aren't rubbing or pinching. If you notice any hot spots, take them back to the store. Most outdoor stores and shoe repair shops have stretching equipment that can fix the problem. If the fit feels good, slowly extend the time you spend in them. After a few weeks you should be ready to hit the trail. Meg learned the hard way that not breaking in boots can be murder on your feet. Take the time to do it right.

 

Rule Two—Pack light.
Regardless of whether you plan on a short two-mile jaunt or an eight-mile trek, it's imperative to be prepared. Meg learned the balance of packing just the essentials. Leave hiking guides and bulky clothing behind. A day pack should be comfortable to wear—shoot for between ten and twelve pounds. Your pack should contain: a map, compass (or GPS unit), matches, a safety whistle, an emergency blanket, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a pocketknife, snacks and plenty of water. Plan to drink two full water bottles for every hour of exercise. If you're hiking in the elements be sure to bring raingear and a change of clothing. Most importantly, always inform a friend or neighbor where you're going and the anticipated time you expect to return home.

 

Rule Three—Friends in high places.
Meg's lucky to have friends around to help her out of tight spots. Maybe she should have listened to Jill's advice and steered clear of cliff faces. But now that she's had a taste of the great outdoors, she's committed to learning all she can and being prepared for her next pursuit. Meg's gearing up for her newest
Northwest Extreme
assignment by training with the Crag Rats—talk about having friends in high places. She'll be taking a wilderness survival class with the Crag Rats, where she'll learn skills that just may save her life. From basic hiking safety tips to how to build an emergency shelter, the Crag Rats will help Meg get up to speed and ready to hit the slopes. Outdoor survival classes are an excellent option whether you're a novice or seasoned climber. You never know when a storm might hit, or if you'll have to face off with a cougar. Most outdoor stores, hiking clubs and even the forest service offer inexpensive training courses that will give you a bag of tricks for the next time you hit the trail.

 

 

Meg's
Scene of the Climb
Scenic Loop

 

Just outside the city limits of Portland, Oregon, a world of adventure awaits. You can follow Meg's scenic loop and challenge yourself by trekking to the top of one of the Columbia River Gorge's stunning peaks, or simply drive along the meandering historic highway and soak in the breathtaking views.

 

Stop One—Angel's Rest

Head east on I-84 from Portland, Oregon, to Troutdale. Take Exit 17 and follow the signs for the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway. This meandering, scenic route will take you along the banks of the Sandy River, up to Crown Point Vista for jaw-dropping views of the Gorge and eventually wind its way through old-growth forests and waterfalls to the trailhead. Angel's Rest is located just after Bridal Veil Falls. There are no fees required for day use, but parking can be tricky on busy, summer weekends.

This moderate, 4.8 mile, up and back hike climbs 1,450 feet in elevation. Be sure to bring water. While this trail is a relatively easy climb (even for families with children) there are some steep switchbacks that might have less-seasoned hikers catching their breath. The payoff is an incredible view from the summit. A 270 degree view of the Columbia River, Washington mountains and Beacon Rock await you.

 

Stop Two—Multnomah Falls

From Angel's Rest continue east on the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway for approximately two miles. Multnomah Falls is a must-see for any trip to the Pacific Northwest. As one of the region's most popular tourist destinations, you'll find locals, families and international travelers regardless of the time of year. The Multnomah Falls Lodge at the base of the falls is a great stopping point to grab a snack or souvenir in the gift shop, stop for a bathroom break or stay for a leisurely meal in the dining room.

Then, take the short, paved quarter-mile hike to the Benson Bridge, where you'll be treated with views of the 542-foot upper falls and a dramatic 69-foot drop to the lower falls. Fair warning: you might get wet. The mighty falls kicks out a spray as you enter the mist zone around it. Or if you're feeling more energetic, lace up your hiking boots and trek another 1.1 miles along a steep, narrow trail to the head of the falls. It's well worth the climb.

 

Stop Three—Bridge of the Gods

After cooling off at Multnomah Falls, jump back in the car and follow the historic highway east until it connects with 1-84. After approximately eight miles you'll see signs for the Bridge of the Gods and Cascade Locks. This steel, cantilever bridge connects Oregon and Washington. Be sure to bring some change. The bridge is tolled. If you're not a fan of heights, like Meg, don't look down. But really, the bridge isn't all that high and it offers a close-up view of the Columbia River and Washington foothills.

 

Stop Four—Table Mountain

Table Mountain is a stop for serious hikers. At 3,417 feet in elevation it's one of the tallest peaks on the Washington side of the Gorge, and one of the most difficult climbs. Meg took a wrong turn here and never made it to the heart-stopping, sheer cliff face that climbers must ascend on the way to the summit. An eight-mile round trip hike, Table Mountain greets hikers with a 360 degree view from the top. If you're up for the challenge, bring a day pack and plenty of water. The trail is accessible from the Aldrich Butte power line road, which is 4.5 miles from the Bridge of the Gods. Note: this is not a hike for families and small children.

 

Stop Five—Beacon Rock

A relatively easy and extremely rewarding hike, Beacon Rock is a short distance from the Bridge of the Gods. Follow Highway 14 west for 7.4 miles and Beacon Rock State Park will be on your left. There's a parking lot (fees required) which, like its counterparts across the river, can be busy on weekends. The 848-foot freestanding rock is carved with paths that switch back and forth to the top. Guardrails and handrails line the path, making it a popular destination for tourists and families. Be sure to watch any small children, as they could potentially sneak through or under the railings. It's just a little under a mile to the top of the monolith and literally at every turn you'll be greeted with gorgeous views of the Columbia River.

 

Stop Six—Deschutes Brewery

Meg and her friends like to toast to a successful day out in the wild with a pint from Deschutes. Located in the swanky Pearl District, stop by this neighborhood pub for a cold one. The pub is open daily for drinks and dining. It's a great spot to linger with friends over a pitcher or catch a glimpse of Portland's hipsters. You'll get a good sampling of Portlandia at Deschutes and equally good food and beer as an accompaniment. Meg's favorite year-round brew is Hop Henge IPA. Pints up!

KENSINGTON BOOKS are published by

 

Kensington Publishing Corp.
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New York, NY 10018

Copyright © 2014 by Kate Dyer-Seeley

 

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the Publisher, excepting brief quotes used in reviews.

 

If you purchased this book without a cover, you should be aware that this book is stolen property. It was reported as “unsold and destroyed” to the Publisher and neither the Author nor the Publisher has received any payment for this “stripped book.”

 

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ISBN: 978-0-7582-9531-6

First Kensington Mass Market Edition: June 2014

 

eISBN-13: 978-0-7582-9532-3
eISBN-10: 0-7582-9532-4
First Kensington Electronic Edition: June 2014