The Warner Mountain Ranges is in a lonely corner of Northern Nevada a few hours due north of Camp Shasta. We decided to explore the area with a week-long backpacking trip. We planned this with an older, experienced backpacking group since we had so little information on the region regarding water availability and other necessities vital to a backpacking trip.
Since I was joining the group, Heidi and Brutus also came along. We left Camp and arrived about two hours before sunset. We made camp for the night near the trailhead and immediately headed into the foothills the next morning, seeking our destination, Patterson Lake.
The further into the mountains we walked, the more the lack of water became a major issue. Despite our expectations of flowing creeks, no water could be found. So, we kept walking and searching for a spring or other water source. We had gone about nine miles and it began to grow dark, and still no water. Although it was not an easy choice, I began to think we might have to go back. While I pondered solutions, Heidi and Brutus were way out in front on the trail, exploring every scent. Suddenly Brutus began to bark loudly, and moments later he and Heidi came running back to me soaking wet.
Brutus had reached Patterson Lake, which was only a short distance ahead, and was letting us all know by barking away as only a hound dog can. It was a thrilling moment and a great relief to us all, exhausted and fighting dehydration. We ended up having a magnificent time the rest of the week exploring lakes and snow fields with no other humans around. Yea, Brutus.
Brutus and Heidi—Are real heroes our in life—They were only dogs.
