In all things of nature, there is something marvelous. -aristole
We started this hike at 4:45am. The sun was beginning to rise and the air was crisp. As we assended our first mile and half we were glad we did at this time. It was a very warm day, even at the peak. This is the second time I've hiked this mountain and both in a day. Knowing what I was in for, I was fairly intimated for this day to come, but wasn't going to be defeated by my own thoughts. It was my 6th peak, actually my 7th since I'm doing all 8. We made it to the peak in 8 hours 45 minutes, which was 30 minutes faster than the first time!!! Yess!! That was an awesome feeling. Our decent was quick, only 5 hours. The mosquitos were insane and out for blood, literally! I was eaten alive, came home with over 10 bites. Lesson learned, keep deet in my pack. Beyond the bites and the fact that my phone deleted half my pictures somehow, this hike was awesome. I finished feeling strong, grateful and empowered!
Responses
I’ve been eaten alive on this trail as well, in the section near Halfway Camp to High Creek Camp. Where did you encounter the mosquitos?
They were pretty much everywhere except past High Creek. They got me in the beginning and on the way down, that last mile they were gnarly!
Thanks for the inspiration and tips. This one has me nervous!!
You’ve got this!! There is water at high Creek, make sure to fill up and use a filter. If your anything like me you’ll go through at least 5 liters! I took lots of snacks and ate them even though I wasn’t very hungry. One step at a time ?
They were pretty much everywhere except past High Creek. They got me in the beginning and on the way down, that last mile they were gnarly!
Thanks for the beta. I was thinking of backpacking to one of the camps tomorrow afternoon and going the rest of the way Tuesday morning. With the warning about mosquitos and the availability of water, I’ll just day hike it and bring a filter so I don’t have to carry as much water. Oh, and I’ll be sure to pack some DEET. 🙂
Thanks for your heads up on the mosquitoes and way to go!!!!