DESTINATION Generic 219 Photosets
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| Hiking | 1.00 Miles |
1,220 AEG |
| | Hiking | 1.00 Miles | 1 Hour 22 Mns | | 1.05 mph |
| 1,220 ft AEG | 25 Mns Break | 20 LBS Pack | | |
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| no partners | | Once reaching Blaine Basin I was tempted by the possibility of being able to see Lower Blue Lake if I reached the saddle NW below Mount Sneffles. But even at our first estimate of a 700' climb Tracey knew this would be too much so I set off on the climb to the alone.
To begin with I followed what appeared to be a faint trail through the boulders, more to avoid the steep climb for as long as possible than anything. But if I was to make use of the switchbacks such as they were, I had to begin the serious climbing. They were helpful while they lasted but eventually I reached the point where the switchbacks had been washed away. From there is was very slow going. Each time I reached what seemed to be the high point, there was another higher point just a little farther. When I reached a point where it was obvious there wouldn't be an opening to view Lower Blue Lake and my GPS registered 1200' in elevation gain from the Basin, I knew it was time to turn around.
Wow! Only when I turned around did I realize just how steep the last part of my climb was. Climbing one handhold and/or one step at a time I was so focused on where I was going I had never looked back. But now looking down, well, needless to say I took more time. But eventually I reached the lower switchbacks and from there it was a breeze back down.
Only 17 photos so I posted them on HAZ as well as here:
http://changephoenix.com/jpserver/web/public/album.php?id=202
A 4-minute composite video of the hike highlights is here:
http://changephoenix.com/jpserver/web/public/file.php?id=211 |
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