Junction Hill November 12 2016

making a mountain out of a hill

With another fabulous weekend forecast, I knew for sure I wanted to be out & about.  They say our days are numbered for stealing beautiful weather for November.  With the daylight hours on the shorter side, I opted for a trail day where we could accomplish it all in less time.  I picked a hill which is truly a mountain experience though, Junction Hill!

Our plan of attack of this hill was to do a full counterclockwise loop.  Our initial ascent was 363 meters of elevation over 1.2 kilometers.  It was steep enough that we needed to maintain a lean-forward stance or else you would tumble backwards and down the slope.

We reached a more gentle slope where we were able to stop and enjoy the view when what to our wondering eyes should appear to the west, but a rainbow.  Yet, our pot of gold was to the far right on that open bare spot, our main destination, the summit of Junction Hill.  

rays broke through the clouds the whole day

It's mid November and I expected at least some snow but we encountered none the whole way to the summit.  There was no need for gaiters nor microspikes.  We first reached the false summit...

then the true summit of Junction Hill

The wind was wickedly wild which made for a very short summit visit.  We took turns capturing group shots and solo shots.  There was no way my tripod would survive if I put it to use.  We scampered up and down the short slope to the cairn when it was our turn for a photo op.

view as we began the descent

We needed to pass by the false summit upon our return to the boulder field to descend.

The rays strategically fell upon the cairn.

We got off the boulder field and made our way deep into the forest for shelter and to dine.  We had no view but that was not a priority, escaping the wild wind was.  After lunch we found our way back up onto the ridge and carried on with our loop.  More blue was appearing as the minutes went on.

meadow play

What?

It's November!

Yet still!

We embraced the wind gusts! 

As early afternoon approached and we worked our way off the hill, the lighting and the scenery was captivating.  I was lingering somewhat as the day was beautifying quite nicely.  We were off the high wide open slopes now, so there was very little wind to contend with.

looking across to where we were a few hours prior

heading home

I was so pleased with how our day transpired.  To be able to complete an out & about day today in our mountain, well really a hill, playground in mid November without trail condition issues is amazing.   You need to grab onto to those days and fully embrace them like we did!  Thank you for sharing your laughs and smiles with me today!