Today's hike was the Cross Creek Trail near Beaver Creek Reservoir just outside of South Fork. Like the Appalachian Trail, this hike was just an uphill slog through a "green tunnel" (surrounded by trees on both sides). As a result, no scenic overlooks or interesting views. I didn't think I was going to need snowshoes so I didn't bring them this time. Big mistake. I postponed the last mile or so up and back. Luckily, I had my trekking poles and spikes because there were icy sections to get through. I was unable to complete the last 1/4 mile of the trail because the snow was too thick and postholing it would've taken too much time and I didn't want to risk adding an hour to my hike and coming back in the dark.
It was almost 5 miles uphill and then almost 5 miles downhill on the way back. >2300 ft elevation gain through snow = serious cardio and calorie burn.
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(4.50)
(5.00)