How I did it: My sister and I scattered our father during a backpacking trip in the Olympic Wilderness.  I figured that since had expressed interest in retiring in Washington while he was alive, that that would be a good place to scatter his ashes. Originally, we were going to do one of the higher elevation loops, but the snow pack was so persistent this year that I ended up picking a lower elevation route along the Quinnault River.  And boy was I glad!  We scattered his ashes in an area called "Enchanted Valley"  Upon arrival, I could see why it was so named.  The view was incredible... cloud-kissed mountains with big waterfalls and snow pack. A light blue snow runoff colored river rushing by.  The sun even made a rare appearance.  I don't know if it was Divine Providence or what, but I don't think we could've chosen a better place to leave him.  

Lessons & tips: Mixing happy vacation with a sad task lightens the load.

Resources: Olympic National Park

Aug 09, 11:14AM PDT | 0 comments | 3 cheers