Hiking (Running) 4:10:00 [3] 11.5 km (21:44 / km) +344m 18:55 / km
Time and distance adjusted as my watch stopped working at some point.
Pocaterra Ridge with Annie, Dave and Jenn.
I usually read the trail descriptions beforehand, so I know what to look forward to. Well, this one didn't seem too sketchy or with much exposure.
I guess it didn't take into account that the conditions might change with snow accumulation.
We parked cars at 2 ends of the trail. The trail started nice and easy, it was snow covered so we were glad Dave reminded us to bring spikes the day before! We crossed a beautiful, open meadow and started climbing the ridge.
The snow was wet and was sticking to the spikes, which was very annoying.
The ridge has 4 peaks. Once we got to the first one. we were engulfed in a cloud and could not see much ahead.
The snowy trail traversed slightly below the ridge and to my horror, there was a lot of exposure. Having snow stuck to the spikes did not help. I probably aged few years crossing that section, but being surrounded by very supportive friends helped. Getting to the next 3 peaks was much better and the clouds finally parted so we were treated to amazing views all around. I would like to try running this trail in the summer, as I hear is waaaay better! :)
Not much running this time, due to the conditions. Lots of people at either end but I am not sure how many actually crossed the ridge in their regular running shoes....sketchy!