Black Lake 8.7.16

Before the school year starts this week (already?!) I carved some time out of my weekend to get into the mountains before the craziness with teenagers begins.

This hike was marvelously gorgeous. However, there are some things I would have done differently to enjoy it even more. Pictures first, tips second. And remember...the pictures never ever do it justice.

This photo right here truly does not do the real thing justice. In real life, this view is one of the most breathtaking moments of my life.

This hike was a tough one. Ahead of time, I had read online that it was 5 miles out, 5 miles back, and for moderate hikers. I thought "No biggie. I've done that loads of times before!" But what I wasn't prepared for was that the first 5 miles out were essentially straight up-stairs. I mean, rocks and wooden posts clearly outlining a step.

Five. Miles. Of. Stairs. It was brutal.

But oh Lordy, that final view was impeccable...

We sat on a rock right at this view, silently soaking it all in, had a snack, and sat silently some more. It was heaven on earth after that 5 mile incline.

What I really did love about this hike though, was that there was so much to see. So many lakes, rushing streams, waterfalls, meadows, wildflowers, and ELK!!

While the first 2-ish miles were fairly crowded with tourists seeing the falls, the last 3-ish miles were pretty quiet and peaceful. 

Lastly, I should never have done this hike while in the middle of a 21 day detox. I was starving, exhausted, and super emotional. All I kept thinking about was carbs...pizza...chili dog...cheeseburger...margaritas...Again, brutal.

Would I do this hike again? Maybe. I need to physically (as in, FOOD) be more prepared. I also should have brought a towel and worn my bathing suit underneath my hiking gear, because there were some great places to jump in and get some sun!

Breathtaking views + sore legs + starving belly = solid final hike of summer break.

Now, bring on the crazy teenagers!

xo, jaclyn