One Step at a Time

In June, I wrote my two sons an email describing my incredible experiences hiking up a mountain. With spectacular views along the way and an amazing sense of accomplishment, I wanted to share this experience with them. After telling them I wanted to do it one more time and that I wanted them to join me, I was unsure what to expect.

Medicine Bow Peak 12,018 ft

The agreed to join me, we traveled to Centennial Wyoming then made our way up to the Snowy Range Mountains to check out the challenge before us. With its rugged terrain, Medicine Bow Peak appears intimidating from an overlook. The peak stands at 12,018 feet, the tallest in the range.

Early start on the trail

As the sun rose the next day, we started ascending from 10,500 feet to the summit. A thin ice glaze was forming as we walked by Lewis Lake, with temperatures in the upper 20s. It was a beautiful morning as the bright sunlight radiated over the terrain and heated the chilly air.

Ice forming on Lewis Lake

During the first half mile, there is a slight incline before the hike starts to climb and become more strenuous. Our plan was to take breaks along the route to rest and enjoy the spectacular views.

Perfect area to rest before we start the steep climb

View from about half way up

Last stop before me make our final climb

Our final push to the top before we reached the boulder scramble

As you approach the summit, you will have to scramble over boulders for the last few hundred yards. As we reached the summit, we were treated to breathtaking views.

Boulder scramble to the top

Above the clouds with beautiful view from the top

Summit view

Mission accomplished - 5.77 miles / 12,209 steps

Mission Accomplished

As we hiked the 5 plus miles (round trip) on this rugged but beautiful mountain we experienced the challenges of a rocky steep trail as the air became thinner with each step. We were forced to stop, let our bodies rest and allow our heart and lungs to slow down and return our breathing to normal levels before we could move on. Reaching the summit we were rewarded with breathtaking views that you can only see from the top.

Growing older has taught me life doesn't get easier or more forgiving, we just get stronger and more resilient. It has also taught me to be grateful for the rewards we receive. As a result of this journey on Medicine Bow Peak with my two sons, I have reinforced my belief in myself and more importantly, I have strengthened my bond with them. And, once again I've realized when the moment gets difficult you need to stop breathe then move on.

Breathe in. Breathe out. Move on.

Mark