Today was as exhausting as it was delightful. I arrived at Nordic Base around 8:30. CHP had been clearing vehicles for chains, although the roads weren't icy. Getting up to Mount Pinos was easier than expected and I managed with just my hiking boots. To add some difficulty, I planned to continue on to Sawhill and Grouse for the 3-2-1 Challenge. As soon as I passed Mount Pinos, the foot traffic died down tremendously and it was time for the snow shoes. The trail was covered in snow so there was a lot of navigating (and snacking) involved. I saw only two back-country skiers the entire day! All in all, it was extremely peaceful and a great workout in that 8-9k elevation. The most difficult part of the day was the last summit back up to Pinos from the Vincint Tumamait Trail. Total butt kicker in those snow shoes!