Begining the hike
I just got back from a 2 day excursion to the Weminuche Wilderness (Colorado’s largest Wilderness Area). There was of course more people out there than a typical day sport climbing in Ouray. I guess that is in part due to the proximity of the Colorado Trail. I did know so many people backpacked. What a miserable way to experience the outdoors. Am I sounding hypocritical? I on the other hand was looking for a little pain. It helps me to think and makes me feel good afterwards.
Animas River
Anyway, I loaded up a lightweight bivi rig (about 20 lbs) and walked the 8 mi (2,600′ elev gain) into Vestal Creek. The first hour descended down to the Animas River. From there, it was all uphill.
It took me about 5 hours to get in to camp. It was raining off and on so I couldn’t climb. The mosquitos were in abundance so I hid out in the Nighthaven, a lightweight tent made by Outdoor Research.
Wham Ridge on Vestal Peak
My sleeping pad somehow got a slow leak in it and so I had to blow it up every couple hours. It was fine just the other day too! As night got colder, the lightweightness of the WallCreeper sleeping bag just didn’t cut it, and I found myself in the fetal position trying to stay warm. I eventually managed the strength to put on the down jacket I was using as a pillow. It’s so hard to want to get out of bed when you’re cold. Not to mention, sacrificing your pillow when you’re not sleeping well anyway.
Jason on the Summit if Vestal Peak
Morning came and I soloed the Wham Ridge (1,500′, 5.4) on Vestal Peak (13,788′) and then linked it up with a ridge traverse and ascent of West Trinity (13,700′). The clouds were looking more ominous so I decided to head down, that and my feet were hurting. After getting back to camp, I shouldered my pack and hiked the 8 miles back out, which took 5 hours. There’s a final 1,600′ elevation gain to return to the car which was a punishing way to finish up the 12 hour day of hiking and climbing.
West Trinity Peak
I have always suffered from leg cramps on long days. I took some of E-caps Endurolight pills throughout both days and no leg cramps! I have finally found some that works to prevent those!
More pics from the adventure here… Clicking on the pics will allow you to read the captions.
