I hiked up Bear Flat Trail to Baldy summit yesterday, with hiking buddy, Jeff. We couldn't have asked for much better weather, or more wonderful conditions. I've hiked Baldy several times, but always via Devil's Backbone or the Ski Hut. This was soooo much better! I love pushing myself hard, and the scenery was splendid. Honestly, the 6,000 vertical gain wasn't as grueling as I thought it would be. However, keep in mind, the previous two Saturdays, I was introduced to Rattlesnake Peak and Iron Mountain. So, as with many things, it's all about perspective.
Anyway, the trail was in great condition, and yesterday was a little breezy- not windy like today. As we climbed above 9,000 feet, crossing some sizable snow fields, the snow was soft, and we were able to kick step pretty easily without crampons. It was a little icy in a few shady spots, but not too bad.
We happily made the summit- my 18th time, and for Jeff- I think he lost count after 50, or 100. Temps were pleasant on the summit, as long as the breeze stayed calm.
We'd planned on returning the way we came, but in an effort to save my feet, we chose to go down via the Backbone. I'm pretty sure I have an overuse condition in my feet, called "sesamoiditis." (I'm getting ti checked out soon). Steep downhill hurts more than anything. And, since I'm leaving this Weds for a Grand Canyon backpacking trip, it seemed prudent to save my feet a little bit! There were a few passes of easily passible snow on the Backbone. I'd never gone down that way, s it was cool for me to get a different perspective.
Here's a shout out to Jeff, for not only taking me up a cool, new trail for the third week in a row-- but also for showing me another way to reach one of my favorite summits.
Pics are here: www.flickr.com/photos/33777171@N06/sets ... 968310781/
