There were mosquitos for sure! There were less of them than a few weeks ago from reports I have gotten, however DEET did almost nothing to detour them.
This hike was harder than I expected. I have easily covered this distance at once and this elevation gain, however I happen to have a huge fear of heights. This mountain almost did me in at the ridge line. I sucked it up and crossed it not once, but twice (I mean I really wanted a shower so going down was a MUST). So far this is the only hike on this challenge I was surprised to see on it because of the exposure. To most it probably isn't that bad, however I had some very experienced hikers in my group that were shocked as well.
The hike itself wasn't too bad, that last few miles was incredibly steep and a royal pain to get down, but poles made it easier. Other than that it was pretty much a breeze and minus the ridge, I would hands down do it again.
Responses
Congratulations, @Roxsee!
Looks like it was a bit smokey. How was the air quality (apart from the mosquitos)?
It was less than ideal. I’ll have to do it again in clear weather.
Hi! I am trying to find an accessible route to the TH that doesn’t require a high clearance vehicle. Do you have any insight on which forest service roads are accessible? Thanks!
Yes! I left a review on alltrails that gives exact direction and will get you there even in a car. This is also starting from the rockpile th.