Well I didn't intend this blog to be about summits, but I gueass that's what the last few posts have been. On the west side of the valley lies the Eddies, a great destination for hikers and backpackers. Cool alpine lakes filled with trout, wildflowers, and stunning views of Shasta make this a popular destination in the summer. In the winter, snow covers the access roads and for human powered skiers there are endless bowls and ridges to explore and schuss down! We took the opportunity before the snow is gone at the lower elevation to make a climb and ski on this quiet alpine getaway. Mt Eddy is a great dayhike if you arrive in Shasta early and want a warm up hike prior to your summit climb. At just over 9,000' in elevation, the view from the top stares directly at Shasta's southwest flanks. An old fire lookout on the summit gives a glimpse to the history of the area. A ski resort was even propsed back in the 80's. For a wonderful side trip, plan to spend some time in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest surrounding Mount Shasta, you will not be disappointed!