OutdoorProject.org
Randy Johnson
Bio

Randy Johnson


Denver, CO
Contributor
72 Adventures Explored
21 Adventures Published
Website: 
http://www.OutdoorCubicle.com

My main concentrations are hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing, kayaking (flat water), and ski touring in the backcountry.

I grew up in Ohio and fell in love with the Rocky Mountains on a ski trip to Vail for my 18th birthday. I finally made my way west after college and have been living the gypsy life ever since. It wasn't until a freak ski accident that I really immersed myself in camping and backpacking. I tore my ACL, MCL, meniscus, and rotator cuff so hiking was out of the picture all summer, so I camped, Fifteen straights weeks of camping later, I had exactly the kind of release and reflection that I needed during that time. I haven't stopped exploring and adventuring since.

Published Content
Photos
Updates, Tips + Comments

Updates, Tips + Comments

Bummed we had no sunrise or mountain views at the summit, be at least we finally conquered this volcano!
Blizzard conditions kept visibility low even in late-September.
The giant trees near the trailhead will remind you of how the entire area was like from to the 1980 eruption.
The boulder field is equally as difficult to navigate as the dry volcanic ash field.
While a literal Earth-bomb exploded up top, you get a feel for how the entire area used to be surrounded by thick vegetation toward the bottom.
A volunteer for the Mount St. Helens Volcanic Monument was the first sign of life we saw all morning. He provided some history and confirmed we were the first group to ascend and descend.
Only smaller younger trees exist around the lava flows.
A weather station can be found about a mile from the summit.
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

Mount St. Helens Hike: Monitor Ridge Route

09.30.17

Wow, what a hike! Clear skies starting at 2:20am, blizzard conditions for the last 2.5 mile push to the summit. We had a quarter inch of ice accumulation on all our gear! Clouds broke up a bit with 30mph winds just below the summit on the descent, then a steady rain for the bottom two miles. And this was all it late September!

Bring trekking poles, gaitors, and your wind/waterproof gear because the weather is harsh and unpredictable! Also consider starting around 4am or earlier! Of the 100 permitted hikers, 72 signed in at the trailhead this day and we were 4 of the just 18 hikers to summit. We couldn't believe how late everyone had started!

Mount St. Helens Hike: Monitor Ridge Route

Bummed we had no sunrise or mountain views at the summit, be at least we finally conquered this volcano!- Mount St. Helens Hike: Monitor Ridge Route
Bummed we had no sunrise or mountain views at the summit, be at least we finally conquered this volcano!- Mount St. Helens Hike: Monitor Ridge Route
Blizzard conditions kept visibility low even in late-September.- Mount St. Helens Hike: Monitor Ridge Route
The giant trees near the trailhead will remind you of how the entire area was like from to the 1980 eruption.- Mount St. Helens Hike: Monitor Ridge Route
The boulder field is equally as difficult to navigate as the dry volcanic ash field. - Mount St. Helens Hike: Monitor Ridge Route
While a literal Earth-bomb exploded up top, you get a feel for how the entire area used to be surrounded by thick vegetation toward the bottom.- Mount St. Helens Hike: Monitor Ridge Route

09.30.17

Wow, what a hike! Clear skies starting at 2:20am, blizzard conditions for the last 2.5 mile push to the summit.

View Full
Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak Loop ascent traveling clockwise.
The views are endless on the descent when hiking the loop clockwise.
Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak descent traveling clockwise.
Views from the Medicine Bow Peak summit.
Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak descent traveling clockwise.
You'll have a fantastic look at many of the surrounding lakes (Libby, Lewis, Klondike, etc.) on this switchback.
Signage leading to Medicine Bow Peak near the summit.
An enormous smooth rock overlooking Lookout Cabin is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy a snack.
Follow signs to take a quick detour to Lookout Cabin just about 100 yards off the trail.
A junction near the summit gives hikers many different options.
No shortage of boulders around but the trail remains relatively clear and smooth.
View of Medicine Bow Peak not far from the Lake Marie trailhead.
One of the oddest summits I've encountered. A flat area of vegetation followed by a mound of enormous mound of boulders that need scrambled to reach the summit.
One of the oddest summits I've encountered. A flat area of vegetation followed by a mound of enormous mound of boulders that need scrambled to reach the summit.
A look uphill on the initial ascent from the trailhead at Lake Marie.
Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak Loop ascent traveling clockwise.
Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak Loop ascent traveling clockwise.
A look up the trailhead if traveling clockwise from Lake Marie parking lot.
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

Medicine Bow Peak Loop

08.20.17

I prefer to complete this loop clockwise from the Lake Marie parking lot. The views on the descent after reaching the summit are seemingly endless. If you like to start your hikes before or around twilight/sunrise, it will be better to go clockwise and save the best views for when it's light out.

Medicine Bow Peak Loop

Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak Loop ascent traveling clockwise.- Medicine Bow Peak Loop
Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak Loop ascent traveling clockwise.- Medicine Bow Peak Loop
The views are endless on the descent when hiking the loop clockwise.- Medicine Bow Peak Loop
Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak descent traveling clockwise.- Medicine Bow Peak Loop
Views from the Medicine Bow Peak summit.- Medicine Bow Peak Loop
Fantastic views on the Medicine Bow Peak descent traveling clockwise.- Medicine Bow Peak Loop

08.20.17

I prefer to complete this loop clockwise from the Lake Marie parking lot.

View Full
Delicate Arch under the stars while tourists can be seen leaving the park in the distance.
Delicate Arch at dusk while a storm rolls in.
A little rain and a change of perspective will allow for some truly unique shots in the Utah desert.
From the right angle, another arch can be seen in the distance within Delicate Arch.
Even in the desert, evening storms can roll in quickly and weather can be unpredictable.
A rare tourist-free shot of Delicate Arch.
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

Delicate Arch

09.15.17

Learn from me -- Bring a GPS, track your route, and stay on the trail. I've found myself in some pretty sticky situations wandering around the Delicate Arch area during rain storms and in the dark. It's not safe for anyone when it's dark and especially when it's wet.

Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch under the stars while tourists can be seen leaving the park in the distance.- Delicate Arch
Delicate Arch under the stars while tourists can be seen leaving the park in the distance.- Delicate Arch
Delicate Arch at dusk while a storm rolls in.- Delicate Arch
A little rain and a change of perspective will allow for some truly unique shots in the Utah desert.- Delicate Arch
From the right angle, another arch can be seen in the distance within Delicate Arch.- Delicate Arch
Even in the desert, evening storms can roll in quickly and weather can be unpredictable.- Delicate Arch

09.15.17

Learn from me -- Bring a GPS, track your route, and stay on the trail.

View Full
The view of the park looking out from Double Arch.
A couple shares the view of the park from Double Arch.
Quite possibly the largest and most unique arches within the parks limits.
Information signage on the trail leading to Double Arch.
The short trail that leads to Double Arch will take you less than ten minutes.
Part of the Milky Way visible above Double Arch.
Part of the Milky Way visible between each arch at Double Arch
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

Double Arch

09.15.17

Expect heavy crowds. This is once of the greatest areas in the park and is also once of the shortest hikes to one of the largest playgrounds, so don't expect to have Double Arch to yourself, unless you're exploring at night!

Double Arch

The view of the park looking out from Double Arch.- Double Arch
The view of the park looking out from Double Arch.- Double Arch
A couple shares the view of the park from Double Arch.- Double Arch
Quite possibly the largest and most unique arches within the parks limits.- Double Arch
Information signage on the trail leading to Double Arch.- Double Arch
The short trail that leads to Double Arch will take you less than ten minutes.- Double Arch

09.15.17

Expect heavy crowds.

View Full
There's a great viewing platform from at the top of Vernal Falls with a great view looking down the canyon.
It is highly recommend that you opt for Mist Trail at least one way. Just look at this waterfall!T
Nevada Falls is every bit as awe-inspiring as Vernal Falls, as you can say you climbed BOTH if you take the Mist Trail up.
A slight break in the climbing before reaching the top of Nevada Falls.
With a slight detour you can reach the spout of Nevada Falls. Be VERY careful if you venture down to the water.
Warning signs when you begin your ascent from the woods up to the base of Half Dome.
One hiker overjoyed by his accomplishment of summited Half Dome!
A giant rock pile sits atop Half Dome for all the brave souls who make it that far.
Sentinel is arguably the most prominent when viewed from atop Half Dome.
Even after descending from Half Dome, you are still treated to even more spectacular views to the north towards Clouds Rest.
From Glacier Point Overlook, you can see virtually the entire hiking route up to Half Dome.
The mapped out route hike to Half Dome via Mist Trail and John Muir Trail as seen overhead from Glacier Point Overlook.
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

Half Dome Hike via John Muir Trail

08.09.16

While the JMT offers a longer and more gradual route to Half Dome, taking the Mist Trail offers a more scenic and unique experience. I would absolutely recommend taking the Mist Trail at least on the way down so you can experience Vernal Falls and enoy the cool down that you just rightfully earned!It should also be noted that the top of Nevada Falls is the last access point to filter water from the river and it also offers a vaulted restroom if needed.

Half Dome Hike via John Muir Trail

There's a great viewing platform from at the top of Vernal Falls with a great view looking down the canyon.- Half Dome Hike via John Muir Trail
There's a great viewing platform from at the top of Vernal Falls with a great view looking down the canyon.- Half Dome Hike via John Muir Trail
It is highly recommend that you opt for Mist Trail at least one way. Just look at this waterfall!T- Half Dome Hike via John Muir Trail
Nevada Falls is every bit as awe-inspiring as Vernal Falls, as you can say you climbed BOTH if you take the Mist Trail up.- Half Dome Hike via John Muir Trail
A slight break in the climbing before reaching the top of Nevada Falls.- Half Dome Hike via John Muir Trail
With a slight detour you can reach the spout of Nevada Falls. Be VERY careful if you venture down to the water.- Half Dome Hike via John Muir Trail

08.09.16

While the JMT offers a longer and more gradual route to Half Dome, taking the Mist Trail offers a more scenic and uni

View Full
The waves were roaring just as much as Thunder Hole on this morning
A look down from top at the lower viewing deck.
The railings on the viewing deck contributed to my artificial bravery this morning.
Be careful if venturing out on the rocks. People have been swept into the water by unsuspecting waves.
The informational signage describing the how the air pockets create the thunderous sound.
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

Thunder Hole

04.27.17

We visited early one morning in late April. The water level was high and the thunder was roaring as the waves occasionally splashed well up and over the viewing platform. If you venture out on to the rocks, just be very careful, as people have been swept off into the water by unsuspecting waves.

Thunder Hole

The waves were roaring just as much as Thunder Hole on this morning- Thunder Hole
The waves were roaring just as much as Thunder Hole on this morning- Thunder Hole
A look down from top at the lower viewing deck.- Thunder Hole
The railings on the viewing deck contributed to my artificial bravery this morning.- Thunder Hole
Be careful if venturing out on the rocks. People have been swept into the water by unsuspecting waves.- Thunder Hole
The informational signage describing the how the air pockets create the thunderous sound.- Thunder Hole

04.27.17

We visited early one morning in late April.

View Full
Try not to look down! Once you go up, there's no going back!
An informational sign warning of the dangers of hiking the Beehive Trail
Some of the first iron rungs on the climb up to Beehive Summit
A view of open rock at Beehive Summit (Elevation 520ft)
In our experience, the early scramble up to a narrow ledge just before the iron grate floor was the most challenging and unnerving section of the climb.
Sign confirming the top of Beehive Summit (Elevation 520ft)
It's not uncommon for early morning fog to consume you (and any potential scenic views) early in the spring and summer.
A small taste of the near vertical climb leading to Beehive Summit
On most trips, you would have amazing views of Great Head and Sand Beach from this viewpoint.
Plenty of light scrambling is required to reach Beehive Summit
You start steep switchbacks up the mountain almost immediately after the fork.
Hold your breathe while crossing the iron grate floor early in the climb!
First look at the iron rungs toward the beginning of the near vertical climb
You start steep switchbacks up the mountain almost immediately after the fork.
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

The Beehive Loop Trail

04.27.17

Best completed immediately following the Great Head Loop Trail, as you will be treated to great views of the entire Great Head hike you just conquered along with Newport Cove and Sand Beach. The trailhead for the Beehive Trail is located directly across the street from the Sand Beach parking lot. The proper path can be a bit confusing, but you should quickly notice the blue painted arrows showing you the way.

It is advised not to attempt this climb in wet and damp conditions, as the iron rungs are extremely slippery and dangerous when not dry.

The Beehive Loop Trail

Try not to look down! Once you go up, there's no going back!- The Beehive Loop Trail
Try not to look down! Once you go up, there's no going back!- The Beehive Loop Trail
An informational sign warning of the dangers of hiking the Beehive Trail- The Beehive Loop Trail
Some of the first iron rungs on the climb up to Beehive Summit- The Beehive Loop Trail
A view of open rock at Beehive Summit (Elevation 520ft) - The Beehive Loop Trail
In our experience, the early scramble up to a narrow ledge just before the iron grate floor was the most challenging and unnerving section of the climb.- The Beehive Loop Trail

04.27.17

Best completed immediately following the Great Head Loop Trail, as you will be treated to great views of the entire G

View Full
Looking down over Devil's Bridge and into the valley
Map showing the main three routes from the Dry Creek Vista TH
Looking down the 4x4 road from the paved parking area
The rocky road you'll be sharing with 4x4 vehicles if you chose to go that route
Much exposure and wide open views at the beginning of the Chuck Wagon Trail
View from the Chuck Wagon Trail
Gorgeous view of the valley from a flat scenic lookout point on a perfect day
One of the few steep and narrow rock staircases that can be rather intimidating
One of the few steep and narrow rock staircases that can be rather intimidating
Desert cactus looking east into the valley from Devil's Bridge
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

Devils Bridge

04.02.17

There are 4 main routes to the Devil's Bridge Trailhead (map pictured).

3 of the routes are accessible from the paved parking lot at the Dry Creek Vista Trailhead:
1) Hike 1.0mi down the 4x4 road to the Devil's Bridge Trailhead.
2) Take the 2.1mi scenic route on the Chuck Wagon Trail all the way to the Devil's Bridge Trailhead.
3) Take the Chuck Wagon Trail to where it intersects with the 4x4 road and take that to the Devil's Bridge Trailhead (not listed on map, but this was the route we took).

The other option is to park at the Mescal Trailhead which has room for about 20 cars to park right on the shoulder of the road. Then take the Chuck Wagon Connector Trail to the Chuck Wagon Trail (left fork) which will run into the Devil's Bridge Trailhead.

Devils Bridge

Looking down over Devil's Bridge and into the valley- Devils Bridge
Looking down over Devil's Bridge and into the valley- Devils Bridge
Map showing the main three routes from the Dry Creek Vista TH- Devils Bridge
Looking down the 4x4 road from the paved parking area- Devils Bridge
The rocky road you'll be sharing with 4x4 vehicles if you chose to go that route- Devils Bridge
Much exposure and wide open views at the beginning of the Chuck Wagon Trail- Devils Bridge

04.02.17

There are 4 main routes to the Devil's Bridge Trailhead (map pictured).

View Full
Morning views don't get much better than camping at Glacier Point.
Headlamps optional when camping under the full moon.
X-country ski tracks available on both sides for about 80% of Glacier Point Road.
Randy Johnson | Denver, CO
Contributor

Glacier Point Cross-Country Ski

03.11.17

We backpacked up on cross-country and AT skis and camped at the top under the full moon. Surprisingly warm days in early March. Shorts and short sleeves all the way up and down. Highs in the 60s, lows in the 30s. Skins I brought for my AT skis weren't needed due to the warm soft snow. Perfect conditions for cross-country skiing up with 35-40 pound packs.

Overnight permits are free and must be picked up from the A-Frame ranger station at the Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area. Camping up top is pretty wide open as long as you stay away from the Ski Hut. No fires allowed. Ask rangers for map of where to camp.

Glacier Point Cross-Country Ski

Morning views don't get much better than camping at Glacier Point.- Glacier Point Cross-Country Ski
Morning views don't get much better than camping at Glacier Point.- Glacier Point Cross-Country Ski
Headlamps optional when camping under the full moon.- Glacier Point Cross-Country Ski
X-country ski tracks available on both sides for about 80% of Glacier Point Road.- Glacier Point Cross-Country Ski

03.11.17

We backpacked up on cross-country and AT skis and camped at the top under the full moon.

View Full
To-Do List
Adventures Explored

Newsletter Signup

Join the Outdoor Project Community

Get access to essential planning materials and information for your next adventure. Take a few seconds to join the community. It’s FREE!

Free Field Guides + Maps

Post Updates, Tips + Comments

Organize + Track Your Adventures

Insider Detailed Info, News + Benefits

Custom Driving Directions

Recommended Campsites, Photos + Reservation Info