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| Hiking | 7.06 Miles |
1,937 AEG |
| | Hiking | 7.06 Miles | 7 Hrs 44 Mns | | 1.52 mph |
| 1,937 ft AEG | 3 Hrs 5 Mns Break | | | |
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| no partners | | I had planned on driving somewhere so I could get in the ring of fire zone of this eclipse, but with all the hype and hoopla (not to mention gas prices and driving hundreds of miles just to look at the sun through glasses), I came to my senses and said no. I had purchased some eclipse viewing glasses, so wanted to use them. Of course, I could have done that in my backyard, but I came up with the idea to head back out to King Canyon where I had a promising hike 4 days prior and see if I could push further. I think I made the right decision. 
I was kind of surprised not to see more cars in the parking lot when started hiking at 0700. I made it easily to where I was Tuesday and felt strong as I continued on, but there was a lot more elevation to contend with, so how would I do? I got to Sweetwater Saddle and felt okay, just a little tired from lack of activity. This spot is where I usually make my decision to continue on up or head back based on what my body is telling me. After a short break I decided to keep going. The initial phase of the eclipse had started. I knew the max coverage for Tucson was to be at 0933, so I took another long break at about 0900 partway up before the junction with Hugh Norris. I got the eclipse glasses out of the pack, and decided to hang out there until after max coverage. This way I could enjoy that special period of muted light and cooler air as the solar insulation is temporarily throttled. I have enjoyed this part before and am amazed how it affects wildlife, especially birds who become silent. It is a little eerie and probably freaks them out some. During my time stopped there various hikers passed by and I offered them a view through the glasses. They all were appreciative of that. 
I felt good enough to head on up to the peak (especially after that long break  ). I took another long break up top, visiting with two of the hikers I had met earlier. So, now it is around 1130, the eclipse is over and the sun is back to doing its thing. It is still staying pretty warm, and I am heading back in the heat of the day (probably high 80s). My main issues on the trail are the downhill hiking. I was a little apprehensive about this, but aside from having to be careful not to fall and such, the entire hike was pain free, just slow going. Of course, I had the trekking poles on this one, as I needed to give myself every advantage possible. 
The other thing that added to my length of time out there was the need to take several shade breaks (where I could find it) on the way down. This was a smart move that kept me from getting too overheated. My water supply was also getting low , so I eased up on that too. It all turned out fine. It was a fun day and I enjoyed to social interactions. And another succesful pain free hike made it better! I felt pretty strong once again.
By the way, the eclipse did look pretty neat with the glasses. |
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