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| Hiking | 13.50 Miles |
4,130 AEG |
| | Hiking | 13.50 Miles | 7 Hrs 20 Mns | | 2.10 mph |
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| 4,130 ft AEG | 55 Mns Break | 15 LBS Pack | |
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none
[ show ]
| no partners | | The forecast for late September and early October 80 degree temperatures in Flagstaff is done, but it was still a great forecast for yesterday, and given my love of the Peaks at this time of year, I risked not only a weekend, but a 3 day weekend at that, and made the drive to hike Humphrey. It was very, very crowded, with the parking lot full. However, it really wasn't too bad on the trail until near treeline, and then it was terrible. In the forest, I was able to stop and listen to the usual loud chipmunks and squirrels, and flocks of chickadees. Clark's Nutcrackers higher up were nice, too. Surprisingly, above treeline I had a few moments nearly alone and was able to enjoy some birds enjoying the nice alpine weather.
Trail etiquette was non-existent, and the prevailing philosophy of most hikers going down was, "get out of my way". So, I forced my way up against a rising tide of ignorance. My struggle. I felt great, and made it up in 2:45, which while not a super time as I would have had 5 years ago, I consider it good.
I can't blame people for coming to hike this, as the weather was great, and the summit fantastic. It was nearly calm on top, and not cold at all. Sky conditions were great, but the recent storm and continued cool and moist conditions limited distance views. It appears that this is not the fall to see 150 miles. Last year, in early October, it was great! Hopefully, it dries out and we get some continental highs with dew points in the teens as it would be nice to have. If not this month, in November when I would like to return to hike from the Inner Basin.
After the crowded summit and upper trail, I sought some solitude on the Weatherford, and hiked to Fremont Saddle. That added 3.25 miles and 816 feet of AEG. It was nice on that part, but clouds hung over Agassiz for some reason. No Elk bugles heard, but a few hikers passed by. Still lots of senecio out there. Back to the Humphrey Saddle, and then down to the TH to catch the sunset. I wouldn't mind hiking this once more before full winter conditions, regardless of an IB hike. |
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Autumn Foliage Observation Substantial
Substantial where it exists! So, maybe moderate. I don't know. Aspen, and it won't stick around. |
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Route Editor
Route Scout
