Brother Mangal Dev, Avt. Ananda Acira Ac. and Ac. Diiptimanananda Avt. organized a hiking and backpacking tour in the Lake Tahoe area, California from July 24 – 28 with the participation of eleven adults, Maungal Dev’s son, and his dog. All participants had previously attended meditation retreats organized by Didi Ananda Acira and Dada Diiptimanananda.
The beauty of the lakes provided a serene backdrop for meditation, allowing us to fully enjoy the tranquil environment. This inspiring experience not only allowed us to witness the grandeur of the natural world but also to deepen our spiritual practices.
Each day was filled with moments of deep meditation and chanting Kiirtan by the serene corners of lakes and atop scenic hills. The tranquil environment amplified our spiritual connection, making each session profoundly enriching.
Beyond the spiritual practices, we felt a strong sense of camaraderie among our group. Helping each other navigate the trails, sharing stories, and supporting one another fostered a feeling of unity and family. This bond was a cherished part of our journey, adding warmth to our experience.
On the first day, we drove to Lake Tahoe, where we spent the afternoon swimming and relaxing. Afterward, we headed to the Carr Lake trailhead, approximately six thousand feet, offering breathtaking views of the forested areas. We set up camp there and hiked up to Penner Lake the next day. The nights were cool, but the days were pleasantly warm. Carrying our food, tents, and gear made for heavy backpacks on the second day. Maungal Dev brought a water filter, allowing us to drink from the lake after filtering the water. On the third day, we planned to hike about four miles; however, due to recent drought conditions in California, the lake where we intended to camp had dried up. Unsure of our next steps, Maungal Dev’s son uplifted our spirits and encouraged us to hike to the next lake instead. He is only nine years old but has been hiking with Maungal Dev since he was three. We reached another lake late afternoon and set up camp for the night. The final day consisted of a hike back to the trailhead before driving home.
