Now I know how the Fellowship felt trailblazing miles on
end. Just to give you an idea about our
recent endeavors, our base camp at Fleecer is around 6000 feet above sea
level. Out here we’ve climbed as high as
9800 and we are fluctuating a good 1500-2000 while hiking the trails. I don’t know about my teammates, but the
difference in elevation is doing a number on me. Thankfully they have been more than
accommodating to my sudden bout with hay fever and altitude. As tough as the hiking was, I’m glad we stuck
with it. At one point our trail was blocked
by a wall of snow 20 feet tall. Instead
of calling it quits we climbed the rock face before it and maneuvered our way
around. The going was slow due to the
unpredictability of our foot and handholds, but by helping each other transport
our gear we did it!
That was the only real obstacle, but we found plenty of signs
that reminded us that bears are present.
We have to keep making noise to make sure they don’t bother us—that is
easier said than done, however, when you keep going up and down these hills and
switchbacks! Anyways, we made it to our
destination and just beat the rain on our way back. We were hauling like crazy! On our return journey we were battling some
severe winds with occasional sprinkles when we made it back to the snow wall. It was a little scary, but Mother Nature gave
us a reprieve once we made it to the other side. It has been a good day.
Off to rest these weary bones. Hope you all are doing well!
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