Started at the North Twin Trailhead. Bushwhacked the mile or so up to Mt. Hale so I could make the loop back to the trailhead via the Twinway trail. I guess it’s about a 17 mile loop.

Rough bushwhack, very dense spruce forests to wade through. It’s a double whammy because not only do you have to push really hard just to get through the tangle of branches ripping flesh from your arms and legs, but you’re climbing a very steep incline at the same time.

When I finally broke through onto the Lend-A-Hand trail, I was really worn out. I had sweated so hard that I was oozing mucous instead of sweat. You know you’ve had a good workout when you’re sweating snot. I considered the 13 or so miles left ahead of me and bile burned the back of my throat. But what’s a sick hiking freak to do? I mean, I couldn’t turn back because I could never live with myself for wussing out. I figured the worst that could happen was that I’d have to take a nap and end up finishing some of the hike in the dark. So, onward it was.

It turned out to be a beautimous day on the trail– glad I decided (albeit at the last minute) to go hiking today. Some pics below, click ‘em for a larger view.

Blue View of The Saints Range
Blue View of The Saints Range

Haze Waves
Haze Waves

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