Not many people try to bag a major Trinity Alps peak like Mt. Hilton in winter, but Michael Kauffmann really loves to hit the high mountains, even when most people wouldn’t consider it.
Granted, we’re way behind on snowpack, so he was able to do a lot of the walking on regular trail, which was probably close to snow-free all the way to the Boulder Lakes, but still, he nearly made it to the top of Mount Hilton, and there was definitely snow at the end. He’s written an excellent blog post about his Mount Hilton climb:
As much as we try to predict and explain our world, elements of surprise inevitably provide refreshing novelty. There should always be another question to answer—challenging deeper understandings and more authentic experiences. Especially if we challenge ourselves to step outside, look within, and nurture an impassioned sense of place.
And he’s got great pics to back it up…
Boulder Lakes basin below Mount Hilton in the Trinity Alps. Photo by Michael Kauffmann.
Major Trinity Alps landmark Sawtooth Mountain from the slopes of Mount Hilton. Photo by Michael Kauffmann.
I last summited Mount Hilton many, many years ago, probably in the mid-1980s with my brother and co-author Marc Soares. It’s a great cross-country hike from the Boulder Lakes basin, but only go in winter if you really know what you’re doing. Marc and I did it in high summer.
For now, be content with reading Michael’s post.
Your Take
Have you climbed Mount Hilton? What about other major Trinity Alps summits like Sawtooth Peak, Caribou Peak, and Thompson Peak?
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A mighty impressive feat all around!
Nice photos! It makes me long for the Trinity Alps, our old stomping grounds.
Eric Soares recently posted ..Are you a True Man?
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