45lb backpacking simulation with Mt. Baldy

First time carrying a 45lb pack and 3.75lb chest rig up a mountain. Didn’t have all my moisture wicking gear at the time. Was a tough, yet fun experience.

It was a clear day, mild winds, around 84°F. We started the trek just shy of 8am. Navigating through Devil’s Backbone, I made it to the summit running off a cheese stick, one Liquid IV packet, and 2.5L of water that I drank faster than I thought. I ate a protein bar at the summit and finished all the water in my hydro bladder. On the descent, I suddenly became drowsy about 1.5mi down back towards the ski hut. My body probably felt depleted and needed more energy. That’s when I asked a group mate for more water, and another group mate for another protein bar. I gathered myself, hoisted my pack (which felt like a tiny building) and made it to a nearby stream where we reunited with the other group mates. I used my Sawyer Mini for the first time and attached it to an Essentia bottle. After downing some cold water and splashing it on my face to cool off, I was able to finish the trek. My average pace was 31min/mile. It was a 12mi hike, so approx. 6 hours of sustained effort. Due to the rest stops, total trip time was just shy of 12 hours; ending right before sunset.

People on the way up asked what I’m training for, or why I have a fishing rod lol. It was all in good fun. My group supported my effort as they wore day packs, however I was prepping for my first multi-day backpacking trip. I wanted to use Baldy as a way to gauge my abilities and it was an awesome challenge. After it was all over, we celebrated with a Korean BBQ buffet. Yum!