Mountains & i
Cats are good creatures
When I was a child i lived on a farm. later i moved
to Banff and discovered mountains.
Summer sunsets in japan
are enchanting. 
Miniature deer near the peak of the
tallest peak on Yakushima island.

It is because of sunsets like this that I went to the mountains more and more while in Japan.
It was always challenging to get down the mountain after the sun had set.
It is the curious creatures that attracts me to nature.
This is a ageha butterfly. It is the size of both my hands.
This is a young preying mantis.
An assassin bug. Rightfully named.
This preying mantis was found at a temple so it could have been a praying manits.
Murder on the mountain. This robber fly has his prey.
This cricket is looking for a mate.
A stick insect.
I would also see wild boars in Japan like this baby. 
A deadly caterpillar.
This little guys first instar.
Cute
These millipedes pack a bit of a bite.
Beautiful
This is a type of horsefly.
I had enormous welts on my arm after this guy left.
Mysterious purple mushroom
Flowers on a mountain trail always help to lift you to the top.
Giant cedars like this one help to keep you cool and dry.
The unexpected beauty that you find on a mountain is why I go there.
Mother nature has infinite possibilities.
many of these lifeforms we have yet to understand
The shapes and sizes are endless
these are a type of funghus.
This is where i slept in my car before hiking up fuji.
Came back to Canada and kept climbing mountains.
These are the beginnings of pine cones.
Discovered new wonders!
Mountains are like people.
Ice sculptures
They are always changing.
Even when the view from the top is blocked, it is still fun.
I even learned how to pray properly at a mountain temple.
Made a few friends
Discovered that fireworks from mountain tops aren't so amazing.
The crater of mount Fuji. I was worried that it might erupt when I was there. They say that it is due to erupt.
Ice pictures
Escaped from this!
Learned how to fly.
Saw what many have not seen.
Got really tired!
It is not just the nature, but also the people which make hiking fun.
Became closer to the heavens
Enjoyed the beauty.
Got some exercise!
This mountain was spewing toxic gas. i shouldn't have climbed it.
Both young and old can enjoy hiking.
Snowshoeing
Dogs included!
Hiking and skiing.
No matter where you are from....
Everyone enjoys a good view.
The mountain appears differently at different times.
This is me on top of mount Fuji. Notice the thin black cloud in the background.
Pictures and text by Adam Rattray copyright 2009