Day 12- Mt Lemmon Madness

Day 12- Mt Lemmon Madness

I had my earliest day on trail yet and I was sad to leave this canyon behind. The giant cacti seemed to wave goodbye to me as I started for Mt Lemmon. I had a creek crossing first thing and realized rock hopping would be challenging for even a tall person, forget it happening for a shortie like me. So I was getting wet today but like a dummy I forgot I had crocs and I just walked through with my shoes on. It was cleary too early for my brain but it was a sunny day and I’m sure the shoes will dry in no time.

I moved as fast as I could because I needed to be at the Summerhaven post office by 3 to get my new charging cord. The ascent started and my quick pace became labored. The views were still beautiful as my elevation increased. I managed to get cell service and while catching my breath I managed to make some plans for my arrival in town of Oracle tomorrow.

The ascent was definitely strenuous and exposed. The heat was intense but I tried to take microbreaks when I could. The trail isn’t the easiest to follow in this section. It’s not impossible but you have to keep your eyes out for the next cairn which in Arizona is only two or three small rocks stacked on top of each other. There were several down pine trees that also obscured the trail so I found myself zig zagging on and off course.

I finally made it to elevation but opted not to tag the official summit of Lemmon or find a spot with a better view. I was in good shape to get to the post office just before it closed. I hustled down and made it to Summerhaven. It’s a little vacation spot built into one of the smaller peaks or part of the mountain. It is mostly small homes, a general store, restaurant and of course post office.

I hustled up the road and snagged my package in time. I met 2 other hikers doing the same. I treated myself to a cold soda and prickly pear fudge. It felt good to rest and enjoy a moment of victory.

I knew there was still some climbing to do out of town so I didn’t stay long. The next week miles were very rocky and had more ascent than I would have liked for the end of a long day and a longer week. The views did manage to cool my frustrations. The ridge was called Dan’s staddle and I reflected that the most beautiful parts of the AZT were not the well-known peaks but these lesser known beautiful sections.

I stopped at the first camp site I came across and set up. I was still at elevation but the wind wasn’t as strong. I saw a lovely sunset and fell into bed but not before I rubbed my sore feet. Today had been a tough day with another 5000 foot ascent and a mad dash to the post office. I would arrive in Oracle tomorrow and finally get some time to rest!