Log In 
Peak(s):  Red Peak  -  13,186 feet
Date Posted:  08/06/2008
Modified:  08/11/2008
Date Climbed:   08/02/2008
Author:  bergsteigen
 Thunder Hail and a good foot pounding in the Gore   

TH: Meadow Creek
Ken Gross and bergsteigen

Basing the trek on a trip report on summitpost.com, we thought we were in for a nice ~9 mile hike. Eventually we learned, that it would be much more...

The hike starts off in a nice wooded area, only partially munched on by bugs. After a few miles a nice meadow provides the first view of the area.

Demming Peak:
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Looking up at th hill to our right (north) we were surprised to see so many animals. A large herd of elk.
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Reaching Eccles pass at around 4.5 miles, we got our first view of the approach, and where we were heading.
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Red Peak:
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We head down the pass and around some lovely lakes and up to Red Buffalo Pass where we get a nice view of the backside of Demming.
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At this point, both of us want the summit, and we push on, no matter what my GPS is telling me for mileage. A nice older couple that had passed us on the ridge, was on the summit when we arrived. We snap a few quick photos and refuel for the downhill as clouds are coming in quickly.

Dillon Reservoir with Grays and Torreys:
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Mount of the Holy Cross:
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Motivated to get down the ridge, we get back to the pass quickly, where we meet another couple debating on whether they should continue or not. Hopefully they didn't, knowing what happened a short time later.

Once over Eccles pass again, and in the 'relative safety' of the trees, the thunder hail began. Boy did that hurt! Thankfully I had both a rain jacket and a thermal, but my hands and legs took the brunt of the ice pellets. Another group trying to get down trail quickly ran into a tree branch that caused a bloody scalp wound. As they had enough first aid and the bleeding had slowed down, we left them to the long slog downhill.

And a long slog it was... Both our feet were telling us it was more mileage than wanted. Then the mosquitoes came out to add to our distress.

Back at the trailhead I check the GPS, 15.25 miles and about 40,000 steps on very sore feet. A successful and beautiful, long day hike!

Map and profile:
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Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
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