Thunder Mountain

Dist: 10.4km    Elev: 1055m    Summit: 7660'    Time: 4.5h    Difficulty: 3/5

A successful May long weekend hike with Byron! We headed south in a strategic attempt to avoid the forecasted mega snowfall dump to the west, which in hindsight worked out exactly as planned. Despite rapidly changing mountain weather (it is still May, after all) we enjoyed a variety of diverse terrain (steep scrambling, relaxed meadow/bench wandering, knife-edge ridge traverse) and excellent views overall. I also decided to leave my antiquated camera at home and rely on iPhone photography in the name of simplicity. Funny how the topics of Byron and I's conversations evolve over the years, this day filled with discussion of wedding planning complexities and parenting celebrations/woes. Life looks a lot different these days, but I'm grateful for any opportunity to get out and explore wild spaces with great company.

Looking back as we break the tree line.

View of the Oldman River to the west.

Getting higher. Weather deteriorating.

Spontaneous weather rebound on the false summit.

Snack break.

Preparing for the final push.

Ridge walk to the summit.

Peak ornament.

Summit views to the south.

Heading back down. Winter on the mountain, spring in the valley below.

Expansive foothill views.

Byron is pleased to have passed his tick inspection.