Early August
Angry August has brought with it cold temperatures and monsoonal rain but the anger is nowhere to be found. This first week of the month was defined by weather that more closely resembles mid-May than early August. It forced upon many of us several days of much needed rest and recovery. It also kept me out of the mountains and around the people of Jackson.
This time of the year is a bit of bender. It seems that every day there is some event, party, or hangout of sorts to attend. The first of the month coincided with a full moon and so a company midnight float was planned. The moon never made an appearance but everyone had a blast regardless. As we floated in boats packed to the brim with music blaring and cheap beer flowing, I couldn’t help but reflect on how insane it was that I was in the position I was in. I felt extremely lucky to have met all these people who I now call close friends.
After the float the rains came and forced a sudden change of pace for all of us, but the summer in Jackson must go on. After a much-needed total recovery day two buddies and I decided to finally go up to Yellowstone and see what it’s all about. It was only about 50 degrees and pouring rain for most of the day. In all honesty I was not a big fan of the park. Too many people and too little to do other than drive around and gawk at the mixture of traffic and geysers. Once we left Yellowstone the day improved considerably. Along the roadside we spotted the “Mountain Man Rendezvous”, a tent city in an unremarkable field filled with white people pawning off imitation native art, handmade knives, and animal furs. Each tent was host to a different character wearing their best Lewis & Clark inspired outfit. It smelled of campfire and leather. We left the meet-up empty handed and set off for the Wydaho Adventure Film fest. A small but very cool event that was a perfect end to a very long day.
The rest of my time was spent at work. This is our busiest time of the year and as one guide said, “the money faucet is closing so get it while it’s good.” I have been extremely lucky to be working our whitewater trips more often and having a blast along the way. Meeting up to 60 people and having to entertain them for an entire day certainly takes a lot out of a person but it can be unbelievably rewarding. One of my favorite aspects of working here is that Jackson attracts people from all over. One boat could be from China and the next Long Island, you just never know. The money is also quite nice.
The next few weeks are looking as chaotic as ever. I just had one friend from school visit and am expecting anywhere from 3-5 more to be coming through in the near future. This is also the last chance for many of us to make good money on the river. There is also all the climbing that still needs to be done! So much to do and so little time. What a great problem to have. Work will surely take up much of my time but the shoulder season awaits and will be long and full of adventure.
Music from this time:
“Purple Bike” – Ethanol Blend
“Liar’s Love” – Title Fight
“Babushka Boi” – A$ap Rocky
Books:
“Touching the Void” by Joe Simpson 5/5
Leave a Reply