One Down Forty-Five to go...

Cascade Mountain:

Statistics:
Miles to Summit: 2.4
Ascent: 1,940 feet
Elevation: 4,098 feet
36th Highest Peak
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Maximum Group Size: 15 for day, 8 for night
Difficulty: Moderate, some areas: Severe











I arrived at the base of Cascade Mountain at around 9:30 in the morning to a very busy road.  There were a ton of cars already there which was surprising to me.  I never knew so many people were hikers! As I found the entrance of the peak (a three minute walk from where I parked) there was a steep downhill and a little ways down the welcome box.

I signed in and then began my journey! But my excitement did not last for long.  It was not far before the hike got steep. And I mean steep.  I could not believe it! But I guess thats why they are called peaks and not nature trails.

As I continued up the steep peakside, there was more mud on the trail, which is not what I enjoy at all.  There were a lot of rock ledges for you to walk up on like steps but rock is not the best surface for people who have knees like I do.  I have had two ACL surgeries on both of my knees so this was not good for them.  I felt the soreness in my knees not even half way up! Granted, I have not been that physically active since hockey season last year, but still.  The people that I passed, which there were a lot of people so it was very busy, were of all ages and from all sorts of places! Even Canada and New York City (but those people didn't last very long and turned back).  The people were of all ages too, from little three year olds (yes, little three year olds trying to hike up something I had a lot of difficulty doing) and there were even old men hiking. A lot of dogs went with their owners as well and it was nice to see.  Here are some more views of the climb:

                                      

                                      

                  

        

                                      

SPOILER ALERT!!!

I did make it to the top after about two hours.  For those of you who would like to see the view for yourselves I caution not to look at these next photos for they may ruin the surprise!








When I finally after what seemed like the third time I was close to the top I made it to the clearing.  What I saw though was not encouraging:

This was my next challenge when I thought the most challenging was behind me! Another big stupid rock to climb!! With way too much effort that I did not want to put in I finally climbed to the top of that beast and saw an amazing view:

NOTE: the top was extremely windy and cold.  Good idea to hold onto hats and put on coats!! I was freezing.

Also, for all the pictures from the hike check out the slideshow at the bottom of this page :)