Speedy-ish South Sister

I hiked South Sister last year and vowed to never do it again. One slog up with “red mile” scree field seemed like enough. But then, low and behold. I find Six Pack of Peaks and, since I can’t say “no” to a challenge, I find myself back on South Sister trail.

I hiked with my husband, who has tragically gotten into trail running this year. Perpetually chasing that runner’s high, he takes off running, despite the 20% grade. I begrudgingly break into a trot and follow him, much to the protestations of my non-runner legs.

Far too soon thereafter I find myself on the dreaded scree field. Fortunately, I appear to have learned something since last year and have gaiters and poles, which helped immensely. A couple of rolled ankles later and I find myself on the peak. It is, of course, worth it.

All in all, we made the round trip in just under 5 hours. It was considerably faster than last year’s time, which helped me somewhat forgive my husband for making me run half of it. Will I be back next year? Probably.