Completed Mt. Baldy peak via Register Ridge Trail (steepest route to the peak) with an intense elevation gain of over 2600 in just 1.2 miles!!! We continued UP for another mile to summit Mt. Harwood and over to Devil’s Backbone Trail which took us to Mt. Baldy Peak. Total miles hiked was around 8-10 depending on the app 😉 This peak meant a lot to me to complete. For one, it was the most challenging incline to date for me. But what is more significant is that a few years ago, I hiked up to Mt. Baldy peak and afterwards said, “I’d never do it again because it kicked my butt worse than anything ever had” (and it made me mad LOL). I was more frustrated that I wasn’t in the good shape I thought I was at the time and that something could challenge my capabilities the way it did (I am a huge competitor with myself so I don’t like to ‘lose’). Fast forward to this hike, when I was able to challenge myself yet again on this beautiful mountain. Not only that, but we took the steepest route UP! What a difference today was! Yes it challenged me immensely, but it also showed me how much I’ve grown on a variety of levels, not just physically. I was reminded about my overall good health, my legs to be able to hike, my deeper connection to God, my attitude and overall outlook on life, my positive mindset I try to maintain during difficult times. Being on these mountains, out in nature, is so good for my soul. Pushing yourself, challenging yourself to new, ‘uncomfortable’ things, can be so rewarding, ultimately resulting in growth which is something I never want to stop doing.