Only my second time doing Rose Peak, but this one felt more painful than the first. Blisters, skinned toes, heat exhaustion symptoms, dehydration — it had it all!

But I loved every moment of it. I decided for this year's challenge I would get the longest distance option out of the way first — it's all easy from here. Except for Mt. Sizer… equally looking forward to and dreading knocking that one off the list again!

Anyway — back to the hike– it was a beautiful and surprisingly warm February day, but still great conditions for completing this hike.

I got to Del Valle Regional as soon as the gates opened and didn't get back to my car until an hour before sunset. So, it was a LONG day.

Bagged my first peak of the challenge and then went home to feast on an awesome surprise dinner from my wife. It was a great day.