Started hiking early Saturday afternoon from Obstruction Point on an overnightbackpacking trip into the Grand Valley looping back through Badger Valley. You reach OP going up a 7.8 mile gravel road, which is quite an adventure in itself. The first 2+ miles are breathtaking as you hike along a ridge line at close to 7,000 ft.
Almost 2,000 feet down to the Grand Valley. The last part drops 1,400 ft. in 2.4 miles...a jarring experience.
The Grand Valley...
Now, what they didn't tell us. After leaving the Grand Valley the next morning, we dropped another few hundred feet to get into Badger Valley. In the last 3.5 miles, we climbed over 2,100 ft. with this 600 ft. scree slope standing in front of us and a return to our vehicle. If you enlarge the picture below and look closely, you can see the switchbacks. This was the second most extreme climb I have ever completed. And while this hike is one of the most beautiful we have ever done, we have decided it will NOT be a repeat. Total distance=11.6 miles Total Elev Climb and Drop=3,500ft.
Now, what they didn't tell us. After leaving the Grand Valley the next morning, we dropped another few hundred feet to get into Badger Valley. In the last 3.5 miles, we climbed over 2,100 ft. with this 600 ft. scree slope standing in front of us and a return to our vehicle. If you enlarge the picture below and look closely, you can see the switchbacks. This was the second most extreme climb I have ever completed. And while this hike is one of the most beautiful we have ever done, we have decided it will NOT be a repeat. Total distance=11.6 miles Total Elev Climb and Drop=3,500ft.
OK!!!! I have decided that you two have more courage that sense. Hey-Table Rock trail is good enough for anyone. Do you remember when you were young and I stood on the beach motioning how deep ya'll could go? Well on your next hike, use Table Rock as my guide for how high ya'll can go. The pictures are so beautiful! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteLove, Mom