One of these days, I will have to admit I am no longer young. A week ago, I foolishly accepted an offer to go with a group of young men as a "leader" to climb Mt. Borah, Idaho's highest little hill. Actually, my assignment was to bring up the rear, in case one of the boys had a problem. This I did very well, at least as far as it/I went.
Borah is a day climb. 5100 feet of verticle in just 4 1/2 miles. The first 2.5 miles is 3000 feet of verticle gain. Can't tell you much about the last 2 miles. All of our varsity scouts made it to the summit while two of us leaders cheered them on. My calves were so sore from climbing, I was afraid if I continued, I'd never get back down. The fact that going down that steep trail would be harder than coming up never entered my mind. It was mid week before my quads allowed me to stand up straight and eight days later they are still tender. At least I can say that "chicken out ridge" didn't stop me. I just wish I could have made it that far.
Two failed attempts to summit in one year? I think I have to admit the peak bagging days are over.
Borah is a day climb. 5100 feet of verticle in just 4 1/2 miles. The first 2.5 miles is 3000 feet of verticle gain. Can't tell you much about the last 2 miles. All of our varsity scouts made it to the summit while two of us leaders cheered them on. My calves were so sore from climbing, I was afraid if I continued, I'd never get back down. The fact that going down that steep trail would be harder than coming up never entered my mind. It was mid week before my quads allowed me to stand up straight and eight days later they are still tender. At least I can say that "chicken out ridge" didn't stop me. I just wish I could have made it that far.
Two failed attempts to summit in one year? I think I have to admit the peak bagging days are over.