Date: December 31, 2017.
Objective: Cervidae Peak 4,987ft.
Partners: Steve W, aka Delta Operator, aka In The Wild Chef, aka Wild Child (the curator of this non-organized event). Brett, John F, Dr. Michael and Lisa.
Stats: 5 miles and 1,900ft round trip. Class 2.
Gear notes: Snowshoes not required; not even carried!.
Links: Last years trip in super cold conditions.
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| Low sun, high spirits. |
I decided to start out at 4pm, instead of the "normal" 6pm and was happy to see others show up for the "early" start. The conditions this year were warm and tame compared to the single digit-maybe colder temps and stiff wind of last year.
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| Gearing up. |
After a few minutes we figured we had all the early peeps we were going to get, so we saddled up and hit the trail.
And they're off!
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| Start of the trail. |
It was nice to have the conditions mild enough that we could stop and take in the amazing views without the risk of getting too cold too quick.
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| Last light on Lucky Peak. |
We were treated to a beautiful sunset as well as a 97% full moon rise at the same time.
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| Steve crushing trail. |
It didn't take long for Brett to overtake us all as he charged up to the summit. I hoped he was running ahead to get the fire going and heat up the chili.
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| Moon rise and shadow rise. Beautiful. |
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| Only a few more false summits to go! |
It was calm, clear, getting chilly and mostly fun. Its always nice when you can carry on a conversation without the hindrance of puffy jacket hoods pulled up and zipped up collars covering faces, turning words into muffled tones that resemble the Peanut's parents.
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| Last sunset of 2017. |
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| Steve nearing the top. |
Brett was patiently waiting at the top, but there was no warming fire or pot of chili to be had...
We could see some occasional fireworks over the Wilderness Ranch area from the top.
Hey, how about a nip of Fireball!
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| Summit group selfie. Photo: Steve W. |
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| Starting down. |
After enjoying some air time and taking the appropriate amount of selfie's, we strapped on our headlamps and started down.
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| Wolf Moon rising. |
The almost full super moon was bright enough that I never lit my torch on the way down. The moonlit landscape was out of this world. After all, that's why its called Moonlight to Cervidae.
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| Moon light stroll. |
We met Zack on his way up at about six or so. He was a one man wolf pack but I think Steve may have headed back up with him. If so, hats off to you sir. We were all back at the parking lot (except Steve) and wished each other well as we headed off to put 2017 in the rear view mirror. May 2018 be the year of maximum stoke!
Happy trails!
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