Mount of the Holy Cross - 2007

A big thanks to Greg for partnering up with me on this hike.  This hike was a bit of a challenge for me since I didn't do quite the training that I usually do before coming to Colorado.  I carried a heavier pack with a tent. The hike in and up to the summit was fine.  However, on my way down, the constant bouldering caused my inside thighs to cramp up pretty bad from fatigue.  I can describe it as 'excruiatingly painful' where every step - boulder to boulder - requires flexing - but the sharp pain forces you to straighten the leg so it doesn't lock up from the cramp. Ouch Ouch Ouch!.  Fortunately, I had plenty of water, energy bars/gel and electro-lyte caps to replenish the things my muscles needed to continue functioning.

Interestingly, on our descent, we had a very difficult time finding the trail out of and off the boulder field into the Forest.  It took us an extra 30 minutes to re-orient ourselves correctly so that we didn't end up going down the wrong side of the mountain and not being able to get back to our camp site.  I have no doubt that others less experienced get lost and panic.

Here are a few of the best pics and a slideshow from that hike / climb.  It was a great hike of a 14'er  mountain that a lot of people probably do not get to since it is somewhat off the beaten path with long hikes in from trailheads.

Slide Show - with more Holy Cross Pics from our Hike!