[Boots]

I've been trying to think of something to say ever since this began up to the latest update. My thoughts and prayers go out for Karen, her family and friends.

[The Angry Hiker]

Sad news. I only knew her through this website, but she seemed like a really nice person.

[Boots]

I would like to read some of her TR's but honestly, I don't know her username here.

[Don]

[The Angry Hiker]

https://www.nwhikers.net/forums/search.php?search_id=TR&search_author=Karen

[grasshopper]

I first "knew" Karen after the '06 floods at the Carbon River. Her trip report was a PI "Hike of the Week", and I thought she was so cool because she braved the disaster at Mt Rainier. Then I went on two Mountaineer hikes where she was trip leader. One was at Millersylvania State Park on Martin Luter King Jr. Day. She kept saying, "Look at the patterns the frozen water make." Then I would stick a trekking pole through them! She probably thought "Will this person STOP BREAKING THE ICE!" I'm sorry for breaking the ice patterns, Karen. She hiked like a gazelle though. Out in front, very fleet footed. Seemed like she could never tire out. In the aftermath of the Pinnacle Lake murders, she was a calming influence when a lot of us were understandably very wigged out. I just started hiking then, and I was very unnerved by the incident. She was one of our members that I looked to for solace. Again, goodbye Karen Sykes. We will miss you.

[Don]

Those are some great memories, grasshopper and others. I enjoyed reading them, and the smile they put on my face. This past weekend was an emotional rollercoaster for me personally. I too need to organize my thoughts and feelings to share. But I need more time.

[reststep]

I always enjoyed reading her trip reports in Pack and Paddle Magazine. Rest in peace Karen.

[BarbE]

Remembering my spirited, joyous friend who brought inspiration to us all. RIP amongst the flowers of the high mountains meadows!

above Park Lakes

Karen in her element

scrambling above Rampart Lakes

at Peggy's Pond

at Rattlesnake Ledge

not liking the snow crossing, but still smiling

love seat on the way to Kendall Catwalk

at Camp Muir

Karen's Birthday Party

on the way to Ingalls Lake

at Snow Lake

[Ingunn]

Wonderful photos, Barb. Look at that smile.

[Don]

[zephyr]

[Nancyann]

Thank you so much Barb E and also Jim K for sharing such wonderful photos. There are no words to express my sadness, just heartache. I never got to meet Karen in person, but someday hope to see her at that great trailhead in the sky.

[Toni]

I too, struggle for something to say. This is such a great sadness. I met Karen in the late 80's after joining the Seattle Mountaineers. Her knowledge of the outdoors and enthusiasm has left me with wonderful memories of hikes that our beautiful PNW has to offer. I always looked forward to her 'Hike of the Week' when she wrote for the P.I. One 4th of July several years ago in Liberty during the annual Parade and Fire Hall potluck, Karen and her companion were hiking in the area and stopped by for a bite, we chatted a bit and they were on their way again. Karen, may you rest in peace and condolences to her family and friends. Thank you BarbE for sharing these photos, she has such a great smile, enjoying her passion.

[DestinationUp]

I feel like I know her better by seeing those photos. Thanks to all who posted them. May we take inspiration from her love of the wild places, and may we pass that joy on to the generations to come.