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| Hiking | 11.91 Miles |
2,322 AEG |
| | Hiking | 11.91 Miles | 4 Hrs 31 Mns | | 2.82 mph |
| 2,322 ft AEG | 18 Mns Break | | | |
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| Partners |
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[ show ]
| partners | | Kelly, Bruce, and I got to the Isabella trailhead shortly before 0830. Bruce spent a few minutes getting his pack perfectly balanced, and then we headed up Isabella Trail. Excellent condition, with a moderate incline. Plenty of trees for shade. Very pleasant.
At the loop, Bruce suggested we go counter-clockwise to get the high point out of the way first, which was a good call given the chance of storms. Lots of forest clearing has taken place, and again, the trail is in good shape. Nice views as we made our way up the ridge. Great views from the Spruce Mtn Lookout. Had a quick snack at the picnic tables, then Kelly led the way downhill. Saw our first hikers of the day as we headed down the trail.
Near the bottom, we looked around the bouldering area, which was fun. After that, quick stop at the Groom Creek trailhead before we started back uphill. Trail is in excellent shape, easy incline, lots of shade, and some water. Saw two bikes, but no hikers. Looked at Cole’s Cabin, which was a recommendation from @losdosslofolks Cute cabin, especially if you’re a midget. Continued uphill as the clouds thickened and there were a few rumbles of thunder, a few were fairly close. Each time it thundered, Kelly sped up the pace.
Once back to Isabella Trail, it was a breeze downhill. Finished up just a moment before it started raining. Saw lots of squirrels in the first half of the hike, one deer leg, one horned lizard. Perfect day, and perfect timing on this one. Good to see both Bruce and Kelly again!
*Getting into the parking area for Isabella has a steep & deep rut. I did not approach with enough momentum, and used 4wd to get through that 15’ section. Otherwise, no issues on the road. |
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| Stop crying and just go do the hike. |
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