Should have bought hiking poles…
Also on this hike
Should have brought poles like experienced hikers recommended to me at my fitness level.
Left early to take advantage of mountain’s shade on way to summit. All was good. Ate some peaches packed in spring water. Re-applied my sun block lotion. And the bugs hardly came out after all the sweating I had accomplished. I was simply grateful for the occasional light breeze
On way down, I leisurely slipped on a loose rock, sprained my ankle, and luckily arrested tumble by falling upon a small cactus.
Fortunately, a passing hiker had a bandage wrap I could stabilize my ankle with and my trail partner was willing to lend me his poles so I could hobble back to trail head under my own power.
Even so, descent took longer than ascent and I was really glad we carried lots of what I thought would be extra water.
Embarassingly, trek took me over six and a half hours…
If lucky enough to get advice from an experienced trail hiker, best listen.
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