Ryan’s Hike in Nepal...during early childhood Ryan was fascinated by a large world globe. "It had great detail and topography. I remember the sensation of my fingertips gliding along its bumps and was very impressed over some large ones that happened to be the Himalayas. I told a classmate that I wanted to go there someday and drive a jeep all over those mountains."

This interest in brought Ryan into the world of rock climbing and hiking. He enjoys the Icicle and Tumwater Canyons along with other various mountain areas around the world. In the fall of 2007, his childhood dream to visit the Himalayas came when he joined 9 others, including REI store manager and former co-worker, Mrs. Les Teuber, who had previously hiked in Nepal on 5 occasions. Their guide was Lhakpa Sherpa, who organized everything – cooks, porters, and our basic needs.

"Our venture lasted 24 days with the highest point of the hike topping out at over 18,000 feet. We passed many villages of various sizes along the way. There are so many tea houses that one could manage the trek without carrying much food or drink. Observing and engaging with the Nepalese villagers and learning a bit of their language and culture was an important part of my experience.  Mostly, I appreciated the simplicity of their lives and the nature that surrounds them – the trees, greenery, and mountains that seem to tower endlessly."

"I am forever grateful that my childhood dream has resulted in a life-time of wonderful experiences, my dream trip to Nepal, and many such adventures to follow."

-- Ryan, The Central Cascades, Washiington State