Granite Mountain

July 9, 2016

The hike to the fire lookout on Granite Mountain was a return trip for me. Some trails I enjoy returning to, partly because of their beauty and partly to double-check my level of conditioning. Granite Mountain's trail was one of those trails. Although not an easy trail, it isn't a grueling one either ... and worth revisiting occasionally.

Our trip started out with a questionable forecast. We were prepared for whatever might come our way with layers and extra clothing for the summit. We arrived at the trailhead early, eager to get our journey started. The trail started out wide, well-maintained and of moderate grade for the first 1.25 miles. There the trail splits, one direction heading to Pratt Lake, the other to our destination - Granite Mountain lookout. From this point the trail gets down to business, growing more rugged and climbing more steeply via a series switchbacks. It was littered with rocks and boulders that had to be navigated. I was surprised by the amount of trail erosion from foot-traffic since last year, making the terrain rougher. Finally we popped out above the trees and began climbing the ridge. All around us were wild blueberries and other scrubby shrubs, tufted bear grass and the now familiar lupine, paintbrush and tiger lilies. For a moment the cloud cover looked as though it might start burning off. 

At the top of the ridge is a pretty alpine meadow with a small, crystal clear pond. It was here we stopped to rest and grab a quick snack. The meadow was the deep green and bright pink of Mountain Heather. Bees buzzed around us, busily visiting one blossom after another. On a rocky outcropping overlooking the meadow, a marmot sat watching the silly humans. The lookout was visible above us, but experience told me we still had over 45 minutes to go before we'd reach it. I found the tree I had a photo taken with last year, so re-created the pose for another shot. We couldn't linger here long, however, so donned our packs again and resumed our trek. 

Here the adventure got interesting. So many people had gone off-trail in a hurry to reach the summit that the trail is difficult to follow. Fueling the difficulty was the fact there is a winter route, and a summer route; only one route shows on the maps, so it was unclear which was our trail. Add the presence of snow covering many portions of the trail to the mix, and you have the recipe for an interesting hike. We got it figured out and headed around the backside of the summit. 

Making our way to the lookout

What a difference a year makes. Last year this area was barren, just dirt and boulders. This year we had snow, mud and running water to contend with. Last year we had a jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains and peaks. This year we had heavy cloud-cover and limited visibility. Last year it was warm, this year there was a chill breeze blowing. Nevertheless, we continued up the trail until we finally arrived at the summit and its lookout.

Once at the summit the wind kicked up a bit, so we put on all our layers. We sat under the lookout for some protection from the elements and ate our lunches. Chipmunks and Chickadees joined us in hopes of a handout. The clouds never dissipated for us, so we headed back down. 



Our summit group: (clockwise from top)
Holly, Me, Bill, Myke, Dan & Evie

I was happy with the relative ease I was able to make the return trip. Having just come off our multi-day pack trip, I had expected to experience more difficulty with my knees and hips, especially in the rougher areas. Everyone did great on this trail, even those who struggled more with this one then they thought they would. We pushed on through everything, supporting each other like the friends we have become, and reached the summit together. I regret that we didn't have the incredible view from the top that I know exists, but the mountain will always be there to climb again should any of us decide we want to catch that view.

Adventure is the pursuit of life.  

Me, just below the summit

Hike 37:52
Distance: 8.6 miles
Elevation gain: 3800'
Highest Elevation Achieved: 5760'