My plan to do trail work on both Saturday and Sunday came to fruition. After spending Saturday removing a few log obstacles and brushing, I decided to head up trail.
My mistake was that i hadn't carried a pair of shorts to change into after the work party so I tied my extra shirt and jacket around me as a skirt, tucked my heavy pants into my pack and off I went.
Not gonna lie, this trail is rough! The beginning isn't bad, could use more tread work and there is a section down low covered in river rock but at least the trail is visible. About 1.5 miles in, the trail starts to switchback (46 of them according to the hiking guide). Those switchbacks are covered in brush and at some points it isn't easy to see your feet.
It was also very hot and the bulk of the trail is exposed- I found myself stopping in the shade of trees (had to turn sideways to find shade in some spots).
My turnaround time was 4:30. At 4:30, I could see that I was close to the ridge.. so I continued 5 more minutes and was rewarded with beautiful views of Paradise Lake. A few photos and back down I went.
Remember those river rocks? With tired legs on the way down, I had to be very careful in that area. I made it safely back to the trail head, dinner and sleep.
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