Maiden Peak Completes the Challenge

While the smoke from forest fires nearby may have spoiled the view the air quality was good on the mountain. The trail is steep in sections and I found myself wishing for switchbacks. At the top we could see Willamette Pass ski area, Davis, Odell, Gold, and Crescent Lakes, but the smoke obscured most of the horizon. I imagine on a clear day one could see much further and have mountain views north and south. We had the summit to ourselves. We met another challenge couple on the way down and 3 other hikers. Someone left a painted rock at the top as a nice welcome. The wildflowers were done blooming and the huckleberries were gone. We started the hike at about 8:30 and finished shortly before 3:00. This completes the 2022 challenge for me!