Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Sentinel Mountain Hike

"Tough Hike" May 10: Eight started in Ponderosa, climbed steeply (2,000 feet in 2 miles), rested and ate on top of Sentinel Mountain, then scooted down the loose rocks and branches, arrived at Judy's kitchen and declared themselves tired and thirsty.

The snow is gone (but still white above 11,000'). The creek we followed back is dry (it's usually running at this time of year). Only a few flowers (about 4 or 5 species) are in bloom. The scenery is still spectacular. This little mountain is still a surprisingly vigorous challenge.

Next week, we'll continue getting in shape for some longer hikes and a few 14,000' summits later in the summer. If you want to train on your own, we suggest a walk up Sentinel--it's steep, breath-taking, and challenging to your muscles and lungs. There are trails--made by elk and deer--with intentions of getting to places other than the top.

For more tough hiking, meet on Tuesday mornings before 9 a.m. at the South Fork Visitor Center. (Easier hikes same place on Mondays at 9 a.m). No pets, please. We strongly advise you to wear good boots, bring a lunch or snacks, water, and go easy on weighty gear. This week, long, sturdy pants were useful to all, due to a few short, planned three-point descents (plus hands).

Doug

Sentinel Mt. crew Marty,Pat,Wayne,Bill,Linda, Wayne M. Note the mountain-side inclination. Topography is our fitness friend.

8 of 8 summited Sentinel Mtn. Congratulations! Three ladies, 5 men; none a callow youth, but full of vim and vigor; 3 men over 70; two within a few years of that; the 3 fit ladies could be approaching healthy maturity. This is a key to health care--and it doesn't require taxes or unsustainable debt.

Sentinel view--it looks like Wolf Cr.Ski area on the horizon.

•View SSE from Sentinel--Del Norte Pk and Beaver Mountain above Church Creek.

OK--so where do we go now?

Oregon Holly-grape

Mountain Ball Cactus in full bloom.

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