Saturday, March 26, 2011

Kings Mountain

At the Summit
Group 1 @ the top
 Another great training hike today as we headed out to the coast range to Kings Mountain!






I was fortunate enough to hike this one last October with a friend and was really excited to get back out there as it is a fun and challenging trail. Only 5 miles round-trip, but boasts a 2,500 foot elevation gain. Last time my friend was kind enough to pack up all the water and supplies (thanks!), this time I carted up a 30 pound pack to help with training! Made it to the top ok, but definitely much more difficult.
Ferns Galore!

We started out with sun shining and lots of green and ferns at the base. By the time we reached the top it was foggy with a good bit of snow on the ground.





Fellow hikers through the mist

Coming back down was a challenge as the snow and steep trail made for slick walking, and I ended up on my rear a few times. Glad to say no injuries though.





Ominous clouds


Fundraising update: the end of this month marks the deadline for the first half of the funds. Anything that doesn't come in as a donation I will pay out of pocket, so any little bit you could send my way will help! Also, this week there is an incentive from the ALA: the climber that raises the most money from March 26-31 will have $200 donated to their account by another source, so your donation can go even further. Link HERE to fundraising page.









Tally:
Mt Rainier                       17 miles               9,000 ft elevation gain
Training Hikes so far       24.5 miles           7,700 ft elevation gain

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