Cascade Chill +

The air was crisp and biting as I began the trek through deep snow, each step muffled by the soft layers beneath my boots. The darkness of early dawn enveloped the landscape, with only the light of my headlamp guiding the way. The summit of Tumalo mountain awaited at the end of the path, a mesmerizing destination that promised the first light of morning gracing the iconic Three Sisters mountains.

As I trekked further uphill, the silence was profound, occasionally disrupted by the soft crunch of snow underfoot. Surrounding trees stood like sentinels, their branches heavy with a fresh coat of white. The anticipation built with every step, my breath visible in the frigid air, as I imagined the scene that lay ahead.

Reaching the summit, I paused to soak in the serenity. The sound of wind, rushing through the iced over trees, provided a gentle backdrop, reminding me of nature's tireless rhythm. As the sky began to transition from inky black to soft hues of violet and rose, I quickly set up my gear, each movement a careful ballet in the cold.

The first rays of sunlight erupted over the horizon, illuminating the Three Sisters in vibrant golds and deep shadows. The mountains stood proud and majestic, their rugged peaks catching the light like a finely polished masterpiece. I clicked the shutter, capturing the moment where nature's beauty and my patience collided. Each frame felt like a small victory against the elements.

As the dawn deepened and the light spread, I stood in awe, knowing I had witnessed something truly special. The trek through the deep snow had been worth every challenging step, and my heart swelled with gratitude for the opportunity to capture the first light on one of the most stunning landscapes in North America.