Gunsight Peak - 2, Us - 0

A few years ago Kris and I decided to summit Gunsight Peak.  We went on the south ridge route.  After a while there wasn't really a trail so we just tried to stay on the ridge and head toward the peak. We went about 3 miles when we realized the ridge we were on didn't actually connect with Gunsight.  We would have to descend clear down and then climb back up some pretty steep stuff. We didn't think we had enough energy time to finish so we turned back. Later when I looked it up on the internet I saw someone describing the route this way, "The south ridge is a long and rugged ridge hike...route involves finding your way around trees, bushes, and rock ledges."  Yes, that sounds accurate.

On Saturday we decided to re-attempt it from the west side.  We drove to Plymouth and walked up a dirt road for just over a mile to the trailhead.  It was beautiful once we got into the canyon.  Some of the leaves were starting to change color.  I love being in the mountains except when I see rattlesnakes.  Kris was in front of me so he saw it first.  It was slowly slithering into the bushes.  Can you see it right in the middle just below the rock?  Yikes!!!    

We took a break while it moved away and then continued a bit more cautiously up the trail.

About 3 miles in Kris wasn't feeling good so we decided to turn back.  I was in my groove so I ran most of the way to the car.  (I believe I've heard that called a quad-crushing descent.)  I love endorphins except when I wake up the next morning and can't move my legs.  I had trouble going up and down stairs for 2 days.  I never learn my lesson.  :)