This might be the first time in three treks that I can say I've actually ENJOYED hiking Mount Baldy.

And, strangely enough, it felt easy!

As per the usual – boots on the trail at about 6:30 in the morning, and was hoping to be to the Notch by 8 or so, which we did. After that, I was eager to get to the summit, so we used the loos and pushed onward. That first push heading towards the actual start of the backbone trail is really a brutal weave, but did it at a steady pace and just past the next ski lifts.

I barreled through most of the backbone trail, as I really don't care much for the heights and the apparent danger of it – spent most of the journey clinging to the rocks to my right! And then the glorious last push up what is truly – the devil's backbone.

Summited at 10 am, had a light lunch and lovely chat with some fellow six packers, and enjoyed a breezy trek down with my hiking mate (who gave up before the summit – which is totally okay).

All in all a great hike!