First, I might add that if you are parking in the lot for Chiquita Falls, do be sure to cross over Ortega Highway and start on Bear Canyon Trail located behind the candy store sign! We didn’t and subsequently had to self correct.

Now on to the hike. I’m not going to lie, this is a solid hike, at 10.2 miles (out and back) plus a couple thousand in elevation gain… My feet did a serious, happy dance when I was finally finished with this hike. But, no pain, no gain and what a good opportunity to train yourself for bigger and badder things! Overall, the trail was easy to follow up toward Sitton Peak and the views at the top are beautiful. But the downfall was that last half mile to the peak — it is a deceptive butt burning scramble! However, this is where our poles came in super handy (and I highly recommend always having at least one on you).

I have to say, what made this hike a little more special for me was that I finally conquered some real distance with this hike (which up until this point had been roughly around the 7 mile marker).  Dude, 10 miles! High five to myself! I can’t wait to challenge myself further with the other peaks and have greatly enjoyed participating in these hikes!

Now, as our motto goes, let’s also give back to Mother Nature and do something good this week. Even if it’s finding ways to reduce your carbon footprint and plastic consumption.