Summit Surprises: Puzzle on the Peak

Badger and Yote had been hiking for hours, their boots crunching through the orange and yellow leaves as they ascended the steep mountain trail. It was a perfect fall day—the crisp air filled with the scent of pine and distant wood smoke, and the breathtaking view of the valley below grew more impressive with each step. They were on a mission to reach a secluded peak known only to the locals, where legend had it that you could see for miles in every direction.

Finally, they reached the summit. The wind whipped at their hats as they took in the stunning panorama—the mighty Columbia River cutting through the mountains in the distance, and the rolling hills covered in a patchwork of fall foliage. Yote grinned and nudged Badger, who was already digging into his backpack for a thermos of hot cider.

“Quite the view, huh, Badger?” Yote said, pulling out a map to check the route back down.

Badger, always one to mix business with pleasure, nodded but then raised an eyebrow. “Y’know, Yote, sitting up here makes me think. I’ve got a puzzle for you.”

Yote laughed, leaning back against a rock. “Alright, let’s hear it!”

Badger smirked and said, “What five-letter word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it?”

Yote scratched his head, staring out over the endless horizon. “Hmm… let me think about that one,” he muttered.

Hint: You don’t need to climb mountains to solve this one—just think simple!

🧠 Taking time to solve puzzles, even in nature’s most scenic settings, reminds us that challenges can be enjoyable and help sharpen our minds. Whether you're on a mountain peak or sitting at home, the fun is in the journey!