Vivian Creek is not my favorite, but I wanted to cut the drive time 1.5 hours. Started late, after 6am, and summited around 12:30. Not my best time, but OK for a fat old guy.
AllTrails says 18 miles, but I clocked it 10.31 to the top. The trailhead starts across Mill Creek, but hikers start in the parking lot.
I was shown a shortcut below High Creek, which was really pleasant and cut off quite a few switchbacks. I'm going to use it in the future.
Got caught by a ranger at High Creek with an old self issue permit. I have a stack in my car. I got a slap on the hand, honest to God. But Robert had space on his permit, so it was OK.
Robert said it was his 35th summit in 3yrs. Which got me thinking about how many times I've done. I think around 20 in 8 yrs, but I'm not sure. Somewhere around there. I'm not much of a counter.
Not my favorite route, but still a great hike.
Responses
Well done, James. Out of curiosity, what route is your favorite?
Fish Creek is awesome. But South Fork is the one I take most often.