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Ascent of Mount Wilson on 2008-09-11

Climber: M (whichway) Lardiere

Others in Party:

solo

Date:

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Ascent Type:

Successful Summit Attained

Peak:

Mount Wilson

Location:

USA-Vermont

Elevation:

3780 ft / 1152 m

Ascent Trip Report

Took a personal day from work to take advantage of the fortuitous weather forecast. The day turned out to be partly cloudy instead of all sun, but no matter. I made it to the trailhead in much less time than expected - important because I had gotten a late start. I figured that allowing 6 hours to hike ~10.6mi would give me a comfortable buffer before nightfall (around 7pm).
The late start was due to a BBQ the night before and, I believe, was my downfall. Carb-loading with beer instead of pasta and going to bed at 2am do not make for a successful hike. I reached the Clark Brook trailhead at 12:30pm. By mile 2, I didn't quite feel right; I usually hit a stride of sorts and fall into a comfortable rhythm. The struggle continued, and soon thereafter I had to rely on the peak-bagger mindset to avoid turning tail and going home. Drinking more water and snacking didn't help much.
It was a true victory to reach the look-out at Wilson peak. It had taken an incredible amount of time to reach it however; my buffer was dwindling. I hadn't even made 2mph. Afraid to get stuck in the dark, I headed back without crossing the ridge to Breadloaf.
Had I taken better care of myself the night before, or started on the trail 2hrs earlier, I wouldn't have to drive all the way back to get Breadloaf. Hopefully I make it out there sooner than later so that I may be absolved of these misdeeds and my conscience freed.

Summary Total Data

Distance:

7.6 mi / 12.2 km

Route:

Clark Brook Tr to Long Tr

Trailhead:

FS55

Route Conditions:

Maintained Trail

Weather:

Pleasant, Calm, Clear

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