Hot Springs, Cool Hike

Besides the disappointment of there being no Hot Springs on Hot Springs Mountain, the climb was memorable. It was a pretty brutal, relentless uphill, and the elevation made me a bit short of breath; despite this, I can tell that I’m getting more fit and conditioned for climbing peaks!  At the top, there is a lookout tower (dilapidated and now closed) and a sort-of hidden trail to the actual summit. Following the trail is a little unnerving since it’s not terribly well traveled, but does have markers tied to branches every so many meters to indicate the path. The summit has a big rock atop it which has some ropes attached for you to climb, but keep looking at its base and you may see a ladder that someone left there — this makes it way easier to summit. The geologic marker is embedded in some concrete atop the highest rock in the pile, and is worth reaching for the sense of accomplishment, but can be a bit scary for those with a fear of heights.