Hike to Santaquin Peak

SANTAQUIN PEAK

Length of hike: 11.5 miles

Elevation: 10,685 feet

Completion time: 8 1/2 hours

Two weeks ago, Justin and I went on our annual "killer" hike. This year it was Santaquin Peak, just south of our home a few peaks over. Justin invited Stephanie to come along. This was Stephanie's FIRST real hike! She didn't know how long the hike would be until the night before, and I was surprised she came, but she was a real trooper and actually led the group most of the way up. Our day began by leaving the house at 6:15 a.m:

Justin & Stephanie Garrison

One of the beautiful views

Stephanie and Kathy catching a quick rest

Stephanie, Justin, & Kathy at the TOP!

Did I mention we were a little tired?

Justin & Steph looked great - I looked a little worse for the wear

Thankfully, I didn't feel that bad

At the top we met a lady who had actually passed us earlier on the trail and was kind enough to take pictures for us. She looked like she hadn't even begun the hike, and was talking about how she had hardly had to drink any water so far. Turns out, she'd hiked Mount Timponogos 2 days before! (a 14-mile hike) Talk about a serious, hardcore hiker!

Smiles before heading back down the mountain

We enjoyed lunch at the top and rested for a little while. It took us about 3 hours to get back down the mountain. The last couple of miles were the worst. I had a great big blister on each of my big toes, and by then it was much warmer down in the valley, so the further down we went, the hotter it got. We had taken quite a bit of water with us, but the last mile, we were sipping the last few drops of our water. If we'd taken any less, we probably would have been in trouble! But all's well that ends well.

Orange tongues from the mango icees we got after finishing our hike

There are many amazing things about doing a strenuous hike. Amazing scenery, amazing views, amazing that I make it to the top, a real feeling of accomplishment. Overall, fun company and a great hike! Thanks for going Justin and Steph! I'll be resting up for next year.......