Well, holy s***!! Where to start? The fact that this made my 6th peak or the fact that it was ABSOLUTELY MIND BLOWING? Turns out, Lincoln can not be accessed alone. It had to be reached either via Lafayette or Haystack- so I did all three! The fist sight of Lincoln from the top of Haystack was not only something I've never imagined could be real, it was one of the most joyfully charged moments of my life. Just coming up the falling waters trail was brutal, I was tired and unsure that it was a good idea to consider doing this whole loop- until I saw it. Suddenly there was energy to spare and I found myself wanting time to slow down.  The waterfalls were spectacular, which was a surprise given the current drought conditions. The views were without comparison. And the rocks on the top begged to be climbed out on and explored, so many places to just stop and suck in the ridiculously intoxicating mountain air. The only sadness (and it is a deep sadness) was the amount of trash left along the trails. These mountains are clearly highly hiked, the crowds up there were something to see, but the mountains are definitely suffering for it. There was litter scattered all along all 9+ miles. Worse, there were distinct spots along the ridge that reeked of human urine and were resting spots for discarded toilet tissue and body wipes. That being said, the hike was still perhaps the most amazing day of my outdoor life in all 44 years. AND I finished this challenge! Had no ide what this was going to turn into way back when I signed up. I'd never really climbed a mountain before this. I feel like they took me in and called themselves a home away from home and all I dream about is getting back. Thank you for that!! LINCOLN FOR THE WIN!!!!