Mountain Vistas

The Cascade Mountains

appear ethereal in the mist.

A labyrinth of peaks and valleys,

they whisper to me: Come,

enjoy our slopes and trails,

listen to the Chickadees serenade you while a

Marmot’s whistle echoes across valleys.

My mountain streams mold car-sized boulders.

Come! See the vistas,

watch my raging glacier rivers,

explore St.Helen’s Ape Cave and its dense forests.

**

The Pacific mountain peaks and slopes are an enigma,

In winter, covered in velvet-looking snow, then a

wildflower heaven in summer, followed by

Fields of Huckleberries, a treat to tickle your tastebuds -

Pick with a permit, follow the laws;

leave the green ones -

they must ripen

still.

**

Watch and listen for bears while picking.

A banquet berry bush feast for

wildlife, the

deer, bear, rabbits, songbirds,

chipmunks, squirrels

**

Don’t be greedy.

Take care not to crush or break the branches.

Step lightly, carefully, and

Leave no trace

You are a guest.

Written for Randy Baker's Unofficial Challenge.