Peak #5

This trek to Peak #5 was the result of a trail marathon I ran in 2017. Although I had summited the peak over a dozen times, this race took me on trails I never knew existed. During the race I passed several mining cabins and a decent-sized waterfall. All these were deep in the back-country, and I doubted many people knew of their existence. I vowed to someday return when I could take it at a slower pace, preferably with a camera. 

To be honest, I couldn't even tell you the exact location of some of those trails. They are not well advertised, which is good, but I wasn't even sure if I could find them. 

My itinerary would take me to the complete back side of Peak #5, meandering through several different basins, then climbing up the steep eastern slope. From there it would be a shorter journey back to my vehicle. 

When I put on my pack, it was much heavier than I had anticipated. It was filled with a tripod, monopod, DSLR with a big lens, a wide-angle lens, full-sized binoculars, and that in addition to all the regular stuff that a hiker needs such as food, water and sufficient clothes to keep him warm. I sure hoped it would be worth it. 

In the end I logged over sixteen miles. I found everything I was looking for, and then some. Although I only climbed 1,842 feet from my starting point, I'm sure the real number was more than double that, due to several instances of lost elevation. 

And just in case you were wondering, Peak #5 does has a real name, but I'm not going to disclose it. If you're local you can probably figure it out, but due to the increased popularity of the summit, I don't want to bring additional advertising. ♠

Morning sun casting long shadows behind the trees.

I believe these terraces were built in the 1930's by the CCC's to prevent erosion on the mountain.

Cresting my first ridge, with the next stage now in view.

I saw only a handful of deer, including these two does.

Always peering up to the cliffs in search of mountain goats.

A spring of water emerges from the rocks.

Wildflowers everywhere!

Trail leading to the next ridge.

Over the next ridge.

First cluster of mining cabins.

Heavy mountain snow has taken its toll over the years.

Inside one of the cabins.

I suspect this structure served as a mill.

One final look before moving on.

White columbines.

This waterfall has no name and rarely sees visitors.

Waterfall in black and white.

Portal to a mine.

Another cabin further down the trail. I believe they were mining for gold.

Wood-burning stove inside the cabin.

I spotted these two fellas up ahead.

It didn't take long before they joined the group and took off.

The final ascent to Peak #5.

Great view of fire clouds billowing on the other side of the mountain.

Peak #5 

Miles from car (one way): 12.4
 

Elevation gain: 1,842 feet +
 

Final Elevation: 12,174 feet