Up 1st Arete/Down NE Ridge
3.16 miles/2,423 vert./1:04:43 (42:17 up)/avg. HR 151 Garmin Data
Great hike/run today, how could it not be when it is 67 degrees? Even busted out the shorts for the first time in months which felt really great. The price of the warmth though is really messy snow, making for some poor footing and slow going at times, as there was just really no traction much of the way, even with Microspikes, it was so loose and slushy. Certainly no crowds on this route, just passed one hiker near the summit and saw a few people near Amphitheater. Love it.
NO YOU DIDN'T
ReplyDeleteThis time of the year it is illegal for Jeff to use one of his laser head lamps head and expose his pale white legs at the same time.
ReplyDeleteDamn the 1st Arete route makes a really cool, direct line on the map, even though you do lose some elevation (maybe almost 100'?) after getting past the backside of the First itself.
ReplyDeleteBrandon, yes, I did get out for a lap on Green.
ReplyDeleteGZ, I am using the headlamp to work on my tan.
Tony, yeah, it looks pretty direct on the map. However, I think the initial loose footing, combined with the constant heads up nature of the route prevents it from being as/more efficient than either of the trails, or even some of the goat paths we have been enjoying. Not to mention, it adds 140 vert. for the ascent (at least according to my GPS both times I have done this route). I still need to get the route dialed a little better though, as there are many micro-variations that could add a bit of efficiency. Still, a really fun and enjoyable alternative and I look forward to doing this in completely dry conditions.