Turtlehead Trek

1 hike down – 5 to go! Turtlehead Peak, although not the toughest, is one of my favorite in Vegas for the top views! I have completed Turtle in previous years, it is always a highlight. One time on New Years day I caught light snow, and last July I got caught in sudden rain and had to bust out the poncho! The trek always leaves you smiling. I started up around 12:30pm – I absolutely could have woke up earlier but apparently hiking up underneath the midday sun is my favorite lol. Caught a couple couples heading down, was a lone rider going up. For the first 1/3 of the trail it is very easy to navigate, but its always fun to see how you are going to navigate up the middle. I wouldn’t say tough scramble, but not specific trail to guide you up for a moment (I wish I tracked lengths better!) But once you cut through that you reach about the 2/3rds mark (in my mind) and hit a little saddle. Then from there you just take the long stretch around the corner to the peak! Took me 2 hours up and 1.5 down. I was not chasing time, just sauntering on up and down in the beautiful weather. There was a slight breeze that just made my whole day. Also, so many beautiful butterflies and lizards about! I had a little picnic at the top and just enjoyed the views and said my thank you’s. I was a little sad, that the peak green box was missing! No sign book or the wooden sign for the classic picture. Overall, just a beautiful day and a wonderful way to start the challenge. Spring Mountains, let’s go!