Twin Peaks Trail

 I hiked the Twin Peaks Trail with a small group of the Valley Wanderers today. It was very icy all the way up to the first overlook with the bench. Spikes were essential. Chris was far ahead of us all, and Dan had left early to not be left behind. He's our amazing 86-year-old hiker who really puts us all to shame, if only with his determination and stamina. But like me, not always the first one to the top. Chris usually holds that distinction. Although, unless I spend a lot of time calling her back, Bella frequently reaches our destination either right with or just behind the official human leader. Once past the first bench, the conditions were much more favorable. It was no longer icy but well boot-packed snow. I was really dragging on my way up to the first bench, but once I ate a granola bar and drank half a bottle of water, I felt much better. It was cold and windy down in town but stayed in the low 30's and calm all the way to our turnaround point at the second bench. I had hoped we could climb up to the upper overlook, but it was not packed at all, and snowshoes would be needed. So, we turned back at that point. The lower part of the trail had done some melting and was not nearly as icy as on the way up. It was a beautiful day and as always, a great workout. Bella is now snoring on my bed after a hard day of hiking.