<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content"><channel><title>EveryTrail Feed</title><description/><link>http://www.everytrail.com</link><language>en-us</language><lastBuildDate>Sat, 18 May 2013 13:50:43 -0200</lastBuildDate><pubDate>Sat, 18 May 2013 13:50:43 -0200</pubDate><image><url>http://www.everytrail.com/images/everytrail-logo.png</url><title>EveryTrail</title><link>http://www.everytrail.com</link><description>GPS travel community, geotagging, geotagged photos, Google Maps, GPS tracks, waypoints, coordinates</description><width>144</width><height>41</height></image><item><title><![CDATA[Sawtooth Wilderness Backpacking]]></title><description><![CDATA[This was a backpacking trip through the Idaho Sawtooth Wilderness.Started at Hell Roaring Lake and ended at Grand Jean.The trip was actually closer to 50 miles in length and lasted 6 days. <br><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4942124412_e74b5023eb_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4942126902_9be5c64f48_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4941543221_2b1d315d73_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4941544505_ba6d5b82f5_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=784510</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=784510</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:21:46 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fires and Mushrooms]]></title><description><![CDATA[Willow Creek, IdahoThis was supposed to be a fairly secluded hike.Due to fires in the area a 
couple years earlier, the morel mushroom hunters were out in force.It was 
still a nice hike along high running creeks.We could not reach the Willow 
Creek hot spring without a knee-high water crossing, so we passed on the 
opportunity (plus it was already hot outside). <br><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2509/3674885713_9159f7e67e_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2509/3675722988_18610daf60_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2461/3674912343_2785dd2426_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2626/3674911515_2c4c3102c0_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=685658</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=685658</link><pubDate>Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:07:33 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Deadman Creek Loop]]></title><description><![CDATA[Decided to go out for a dayhike and get some fresh air. We Spotted numerous deer and a coyote (can you spot the deer in photo 5?). The spring grass carpeting the hills made for beautiful scenery. Once the summer heat kicks in, I'm sure it will all turn brown.It was very windy along the ridge but there was still no need for a jacket.The clouds made for great photos and the temperature was pleasant. On the way to the trailhead we saw vehicles and people but never encountered anyone on the trail. <br><img src="http://images.everytrail.com/pics/thumbnail/1216645-DSCN2411.JPG"/> <img src="http://images.everytrail.com/pics/thumbnail/1216647-DSCN2412.JPG"/> <img src="http://images.everytrail.com/pics/thumbnail/1216650-DSCN2413.JPG"/> <img src="http://images.everytrail.com/pics/thumbnail/1216651-DSCN2414.JPG"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=602132</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=602132</link><pubDate>Mon, 3 May 2010 14:49:14 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Borah Peak - Idaho Highpoint 12,662ft.]]></title><description><![CDATA[Note: This trip has updated and more accurate GPS data. I posted a similar trip but the mapping data was drawn within EveryTrail. Use this trip GPS data for better location info.After
talking for over five years about climbing to the highest point in
Idaho, we were still just talking about it. Other people also wanted to
climb to the summit, but when it came down to the nitty gritty, we were
still just talking.We finally marked the date on the calendar 
and planned the trip.July 26 would be the day we attempt to summit 
the highest point in Idaho.The team had initially started out 
with about 28 people.After a few preparatory hikes and review of the
 Borah Peak terrain and elevation profiles, the team quickly slimmed 
down to 5.We piled all our gear (way too much gear) in the back 
of a Dodge truck and headed toward Mackay Idaho.Along
the way we  passed Craters of the Moon and headed toward Arco, Idaho.
Arco's claim to fame is that it was the first nuclear powered town in
the US.Stopping at a gas station in Mackay, everyone scrambled 
for the restroom, then to get a few snacks.Finally
we reached our campsite near the Borah trail head.  One of our team
members had brought his dutch oven and had prepared an awesome meal for
all of us.Next to our campsite  a couple guys showed up that
had just spent three weeks hiking through the Sawtooth mountains. We
invited them over to eat with us.  We all enjoyed the food and
conversation.We decided to be on the trail by 4:00AM using 
headlamps to avoid any mosquitoes and to hopefully see a great sunrise.Everyone
 headed to their tents.Sleeping
did not come easy. There was snoring from various tents and some other
hikers showed up late and were talking until after midnight.The 
3:30AM alarm sounded and we all started to break down camp.I
took out my JetBoil and made some hot coffee and oatmeal. My breakfast
was cooked and ready to eat in under 10 minutes.  I was ready to go.Unfortunately
 others got up late and breakfast was a slower process.We finally got on the trail at about 5:45. It was later than we wanted, but
everyone was in good spirits and ready to attempt the summit.Out
 came the trekking poles and up the trail we went.The trail started 
out on a gradual incline and we made it into the trees.We did not 
need our flashlights or headlamps so we stowed the gear and continued up
 the trail.It didn't take long until the mosquitoes were known 
to us all.&quot;Hey....do you have any more repellent?&quot; became a common 
phrase.This lasted until we broke past the tree line and out onto 
the rocks.As the sun began to rise over the mountains, the 
shadows of the peaks being cast on the valley floor were an incredible 
sight.Once the sun had crested the ridges, the air began to warm
 up and we started to set a good pace.We
passed an area out on in the open where a rock wind shelter and fire
had been setup. I thought to myself that that would be a great place to
start from in the morning so that you could possibly be on the summit
and watch the sunrise.  Oh, well....maybe next time.The 
steepness leveled out and this gave our legs a rest. It was short lived 
though.Chicken Out Ridge was in front of us.We had hear 
so many stories of people turning back at this point that we were not 
sure what to expect. It was named Chicken Out Ridge because for a number of hikers, 
the exposure on both sides of the
ridge is enough to convince them to &quot;chicken out&quot; and return to camp.Google
maps,
 trail and summit logs.....everyone had a different story about
the COR. Granted, you are exposed on both sides, but it did not seem
that intimidating. This was actually a high-point of the climb for me.The
 trekking poles were put away and we started up Chicken Out Ridge.I
told the team to stay on top of the ridge line and not to try and work
their way around the edges. Everyone stayed on the ridge and made it
across the exposed area with no problems.We stopped and took a 
short break just below the ridge and discussed the snow crossing.The
 downclimb from Chicken Out Ridge onto the snow seemed harder than 
crossing the ridge itself.Once we had downclimbed onto the snow 
we were all ready to cross the saddle.There was already a path across the saddle in the snow, so the ice axe was not needed.We
 all crossed the saddle and felt a sense of accomplishment.The
trail leveled off again and as we rounded a corner, we looked up and
saw the field of stone above us that we had to ascend. Our legs started
to hurt just looking at it.The air was thinner now and we began
to notice it a little. We drank water from our Camelbaks and ate some
energy bars and then steadied ourselves for the ascent.At a few 
places you could not find the trail in the loose rocks at all.Just 
look ahead and up, find something that resembles a trail and head for 
it.A few steps up...slide back.....a few more steps.....keep 
going.Watch your step....don't twist your ankle...easy on the 
knees....None of us wanted to have an injury this close to the 
summit.Finally the summit was in sight.You could see what 
looked like a small flag on top of the mountain.Another short, 
steep ascent and finally we were there!On top of Idaho! 12,662 feet 
high.A little over 5000 feet of elevation gain in about 4 miles.We found the 
summit log and signed our names.Other teams had already summited and
 we asked them to take our picture with the summit flag.I just 
couldn't resist it....I had brought my GPS with the location of a 
geocache near the summitThe cache was located, the logbook signed, 
and then I sat down to take in the view.Beautiful unnamed alpine
 lakes and various peaks over 10,000 feet were in view from our vantage 
point along with a nice breeze.The valley was not as clear as we
 had hoped (maybe due to the smoke from a bad fire season) but the view 
was still awesome.After eating some lunch, it was time to head 
back down the mountain.The
scramble down the rocks proved to be hard on our knees (this was
anticipated) and the first aid kits had been stocked with Advil just in
case.One of the team members injured his knees and the weight
of his pack was causing pain. I took as much of his gear as possible to
lighten the load. He was able to keep moving under his own power.We
 slowly made it back to the trailhead and looked back at the mountain.The
 weather had held and everyone on the team made it to the summit and 
back.We put our packs in the back of the truck, headed into 
Mackay for a hamburger and fries.We were all tired, but we had accomplished what we set out to do.It had been a good day to 
summit.Now it was just a long 5 hour drive home. But after 5 
years in the making, who's counting....... <br><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3326/3614420316_beb8f82ee1_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3376/3614421254_498fa858af_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2437/3613601833_4dd1c32d5c_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3417/3614421582_5781578c18_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=551926</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=551926</link><pubDate>Tue, 30 Mar 2010 22:46:14 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jughandle Summit - Louie Lake]]></title><description><![CDATA[This was a shakedown hike for an upcoming Borah Peak summit climb.Louie Lake is beautiful in the morning with the reflections.The trail to Louie Lake is well marked and looks as though ATVs also use the trail.Once you reach Louie Lake continue along the southwest side and the begin to climb the ridgeline. Once you reach the boulder field you will see rock cairns marking the path to the summit.If you travel directly on the ridge, do not get too close to the edge as there is a steep cliff.Bring a lunch and enjoy the summit! <br><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2736/4477120857_f8dfa2974f_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4477124995_332ea946eb_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4030/4477127125_57000a4c1e_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4063/4477113601_3537f40cc6_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=551826</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=551826</link><pubDate>Tue, 30 Mar 2010 19:47:50 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Snake River Petroglyphs - Rock Art]]></title><description><![CDATA[After reading about a large concentration of petroglyphs along the Snake River a few miles below Swan Falls dam, I decided to take a hike and check them out.The temperature was about 45 degrees, but it was windy. Even so, there was a clear sky and no people on the trail. Looking across the river I could see numerous people camped along the bank and fishing.The trail is mostly a double track probably from ATV use. Further along the trail it changes into a single track.There is an area called Priest Ranch where you can see the old foundations of buildings and rusted equipment.You pass what is left of a small orchard. I am unsure of what type of trees they were, but they were beginning to bud.The first rock with a petroglyph will be right along the trail on the East side. The rest of the petroglyphs are located in the boulder field to the West.Don't forget to check out the remnants of the stone building next to the river. <br><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4435962048_69b48a13f9_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4435963428_a90c68218f_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2693/4435964792_f22705c719_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4435966118_11f23310a6_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=531717</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=531717</link><pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:22:03 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Banner Ridge - Cross-country Slush]]></title><description><![CDATA[The weather forecast said it would be a clear day, so my son and I decided to take the day and go cross-country skiing.The area was a somewhat groomed trail north of Idaho City called Banner Ridge. There is a yurt near the Banner Ridge summit. It appeared that someone had snowshoed into the yurt and we could hear their voice sometimes. We never saw anyone else on the trails.By noon, the sun was causing the trail to turn to slush. It was like trying to ski in mashed potatoes.  The tracks from the snowshoes also made the skiing a little rough.The views from the summit were great. There were a few high clouds and some contrails from jets, but otherwise the sky was clear and blue.Along the summit there was a pole that had a sign stating cell phones would work here. We tried it, and sure enough, we could make calls. Of course the emails and text messages started coming in as well. I should have just left the phone off and enjoyed the skiing.We had lunch at the summit, watched birds flying below us and just enjoyed the views.After looking at the trail maps, we decided to backtrack a bit a take a different route back down.Going downhill in the slush was a bit of a chore, but it was still nice to be in the outdoors. <br><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4401986044_c1c40122d1_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4020/4401224579_74be462820_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2763/4401991648_1a1915d18d_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4068/4401226837_ff0b284196_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=516843</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=516843</link><pubDate>Tue, 2 Mar 2010 12:28:13 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Gold Fork - Cross-country Ice]]></title><description><![CDATA[As a way to avoid cabin fever, my son and I started cross-country skiing.We thought that going cross-country skiing in the middle of the week may be a great way to avoid crowded trails. We were right. There was a car parked at the trailhead, but we never saw or heard anyone on the trails. It may have been someone using the nearby yurt.Of course, the weather was overcast and cold, not exactly  great skiing conditions. The weather may have had something to do with the lack of activity on the trails.Oh well, we were here and determined to ski the Gold Fork loop.  It is a beginner/intermediate trail, but the cold weather (about 26 degrees F) made most of the trails sold ice and more difficult to maneuver.You could hear the nearby stream trickling under the snow.As we reached the summit, some blue sky finally appeared through the clouds. It quickly disappeared and the winds began to pick up.  We put on our outer layers and continued along the trail.Along the side of the trails we could see wolf tracks in the softer snow.The temperature continued to drop and we decided to move a little quicker.This may not have been a good idea and we slid on the ice that had accumulated under the trees.We picked ourselves up, finished the loop and reached the trailhead.Even though it was a cold and windy day, it still felt great to be out in the Idaho mountains. <br><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2736/4402470364_4b45a1f819_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4044/4401704357_90dbcbfbbb_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2748/4401708551_0fdd2cf0ab_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4402471776_19f9f77335_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=495262</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=495262</link><pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:48:26 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sawtooth Wilderness Highpoint - Idaho - Part 1]]></title><description><![CDATA[Thompson Peak - Sawtooth Wilderness Highpoint - Idaho - Part 1This trip initially was a summit bid for Thompson Peak, the highest point in the Sawtooth Wilderness area (10,751'). Surprisingly, there were no topo maps that showed routes to the summit, and only a few trip reports.The team got a late start, due to a leisurely morning at camp just outside of Stanley Idaho. We wanted to be at the lake near the base of Thompson Peak by noon. The last 2 miles of the trail were steep. We arrived at the lake late in the afternoon. Due to the short amount of time that we had, it was decided to scout the area in preparation to summit on another day.The lake was so clear and blue you could see trout everywhere. Not one of us had brought a fly rod.Camp was setup, meals ate, and stars gazed at. A perfectly clear night.We awoke in the morning, drank coffee, tea, and ate breakfast. Since we had decided not to summit today, we took it easy and enjoyed the views of the wilderness from our vantage point.Water bottles were filled, camp was struck and we put our packs on.The trip back down was uneventful but beautiful.Now that we have a good idea of the time required to summit Thompson Peak, stay tuned for part 2. <br><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2429/3921094729_0ee61f9fed_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3494/3921877090_6f1807b374_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2484/3921093677_2aa627226b_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2511/3921092733_8863d2884c_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=354869</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=354869</link><pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2009 19:40:28 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hell's Canyon, Idaho - Devil Dash]]></title><description><![CDATA[This was trail running 28 miles around the Seven Devils in Hell's Canyon.11 hours and 11,000 feet of elevation gain later, the trailhead was reached again. Rain, hail, and finally good weather. A long day, but an awesome area. <br><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3453/3877809157_aaebae3db8_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2629/3878602260_86495fc816_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2589/3877807283_a678f678df_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/3878600736_14e8ca43b9_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=347334</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=347334</link><pubDate>Tue, 8 Sep 2009 12:54:16 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hell's Canyon, Idaho - Seven Devils]]></title><description><![CDATA[During a trail running trip of 28 miles around the Seven Devils in Hell's Canyon, a couple of us broke off from the group to go to the Dry Diggins lookout. Beautiful country overlooking the deepest gorge in the United States (even deeper than the Grand Canyon).The stairway to hell was appropriately named. It felt the same hiking back out on it also.We had rain, hail, and finally nice weather during the hike. <br><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3453/3877809157_aaebae3db8_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2629/3878602260_86495fc816_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2589/3877807283_a678f678df_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/3878600736_14e8ca43b9_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=338841</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=338841</link><pubDate>Tue, 1 Sep 2009 12:32:42 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Rafting Payette River]]></title><description><![CDATA[4 rafts 25 people, 3 super soakers and wonderful weather.There was also fried chicken, but some of it seemed to disappear before we even got to our lunch break (missing chicken courtesy of John P.)We put in at Banks, and almost immediately the water wars began.Note:Most of the photos are not in the correct river location.This was due to only a portion of the photos being taken with a digital camera. <br><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2460/3823969285_70a6dd7b18_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3537/3824768812_e9989f5b4b_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2498/3824767262_fdb0ff680e_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2564/3823964835_6f0c1e67bf_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=315000</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=315000</link><pubDate>Sat, 15 Aug 2009 18:55:11 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sawtooth Wilderness, ID - Steak and Mashed Mosquitoes]]></title><description><![CDATA[
Sawtooth Wilderness, Idaho - Steak and Mashed Mosquitoes4 Days - 25 MilesThis trip was planned as a shakedown  for a 7 day through hike in the Sawtooth Wilderness next year. Our gear and food lists were refined as a result.Day 1After weeks of preparation and weighing everything item that was going into our packs, we were finally on our way.....at about 12:00 noon. We were just getting on the road heading to the trailhead. It was going to be a long hike into the evening.The trailhead was reached about 3:00PM and we started on our way.After assisting a few Boy Scouts that were separated from their group, we finally reached our first nights destination.The tent was setup and dinner was getting started.We had worked on creating our own dehydrated and prepared food for the trip. The goal was to only use food that we had personally prepared. No prepackaged meals would be used. As such, our first nights meal would be the heaviest item (so that the packs would be lighter).Fillet Mignon and mashed potatoes!As we were eating, the mosquitoes started to arrive.I put on repellent and kept trying to eat. The mosquitoes kept going for the mashed potatoes. I'm not sure how many I ate, but the food was good.It was a new moon and the stars were incredible.Bears are in this area, so we placed all of our food in a bag, attached a carabiner and rope, then hung the bag in a tree.Day 2Getting up early the next morning I was able to watch the sun rise over El Capitan (not the one in Yosemite).The fish were jumping in the lakes and it looked like it was going to be a perfect day.Camp was struck and we started off on next leg of the trip.We continued along the edge of the lake and streams then ended up in a boulder field. Careful maneuvering kept us from having to wade across the streams.Looking at the topo map and also the gps route, we decided to attempt to stay near the crest of the trail in a saddle below Snowyside.We found a fairly flat and level spot in the saddle that would work for the night.There was still enough time to attempt to summit Snowside.We put on our small technical packs, loaded a few essentials and started toward the summit.The route took us along the ridgeline of the Sawtooths. There was some exposure, but the views and knowing that you were on a Sawtooth knifedge was worth it.We made the summit and took a few photos.The view from the second highest point in the Sawtooth Wilderness was spectacular. You could see at least 26 different lakes.We started back down the summit and decided on a route that would allow us to reach the snow and glissade down part of the way.As we were down-climbing a steep section of terrain (a cliff basically), the clip that secured my gps broke and I watched my gps fall and bounce down the cliff about 150 feet. I saw where it landed and headed down to recover the remains.The plastic screen cover had popped off the gps and the unit was laying face up with the lcd display showing. The battery cover had been jarred open and there were a few dings to the case. I reseated the batteries, turned the unit on and it immediately got a satellite fix. I climbed straight up about 25 feet from where the unit had landed and found the plastic screen cover. I popped the cover back on and everything appeared to be working properly.We continued working our way around the edges until we reached the snow. With our trekking poles in hand, we sat down and glissaded most of the way down near our camp.Time to fix dinner and get rested for another day.Day 3Camp was packed up and we started down the trail.The trail was steep and rocky, but at least it was in the morning and not blazing hot.We started passing Boy Scouts that were on their way up to the saddle and on to the other lakes. They looked worn out. That probably meant some steep downhills for quite some time.It was steep, but beautiful. Passing more lakes and spectacular waterfalls, we kept up a good pace.As soon as you stopped, here came the mosquitoes.After a brief discussion, we decided to push on further so that our last day would put us closer to our exit point.The terrain changed to from lush green to arid conditions. Water was hard to find.We reached more trees and the topo map showed the stream about 100 yards to our right. We went off in search of water.Water was found, but so were the mosquitoes.It looked as though some weather might hit us, so we started looking for a campsite that would keep us dry in the event of rain. There was nothing suitable in this area so we pushed on some more.We finally found a spot near the stream and dropped our packs.Tiredness had set in and we decided to stay put.Rinsing off in the stream and a hot meal for dinner revived us.We were tired, but things were working out well.The clouds had cleared and you could see the stars.We left the rainfly off the tent to enjoy the view.At about 2:00AM, I felt the rain splattering in the tent.We got up, put on the rainfly, covered our packs, and went back to sleep.Of course the rain stopped a few minutes later.Day 4As we boiled water, the mosquitoes came after the heat. The also came after my elbow. I had ran out of repellent. Even with my sleeves rolled down, the mosquitoes made it through the material.We packed up camp and started off on the last leg of the journey.I know the packs were getting lighter, but it didn't feel that way.The trail continued down and we finally broke through the trees and could see the valley and the White Cloud mountains in the distance.Down the trail we went until we finally reached our cutoff point.Turing onto the new section of trail we started a slow ascent that gradually got steeper. We passed hikers with daypacks, so we knew we were getting close to the end.A couple miles later we started descending and we were back at our starting point.It has been great weather for backpacking and the scenery was incredible.Lessons were learned on what to, and what not to bring.This definitely helped in preparation for next year's through hike.Off to the next adventure....... <br><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2443/3765334185_59b9399ff1_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2640/3765335193_e0c57a0156_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3557/3765335983_da1c089e6b_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2466/3765336631_bd06416d87_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=295597</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=295597</link><pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:34:00 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bruneau Dunes - Idaho]]></title><description><![CDATA[<br><img src="http://images.everytrail.com/pics/thumbnail/431367-DSCN1370.jpg"/> <img src="http://images.everytrail.com/pics/thumbnail/431370-DSCN1373.jpg"/> <img src="http://images.everytrail.com/pics/thumbnail/431371-DSCN1374.jpg"/> <img src="http://images.everytrail.com/pics/thumbnail/431372-DSCN1375.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=242952</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=242952</link><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:36:34 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Five Years to Reach the Summit?]]></title><description><![CDATA[Five Years to Reach the Summit?Borah Peak Summit - IdahoAfter
talking for over five years about climbing to the highest point in
Idaho, we were still just talking about it. Other people also wanted to
climb to the summit, but when it came down to the nitty gritty, we were
still just talking.We finally marked the date on the calendar and planned the trip.July 26 would be the day we attempt to summit the highest point in Idaho.The team had initially started out with about 28 people.After a few preparatory hikes and review of the Borah Peak terrain and elevation profiles, the team quickly slimmed down to 5.We piled all our gear (way too much gear) in the back of a Dodge truck and headed toward Mackay Idaho.Along
the way we&amp;nbsp; passed Craters of the Moon and headed toward Arco, Idaho.
Arco's claim to fame is that it was the first nuclear powered town in
the US.Stopping at a gas station in Mackay, everyone scrambled for the restroom, then to get a few snacks.Finally
we reached our campsite near the Borah trail head.&amp;nbsp; One of our team
members had brought his dutch oven and had prepared an awesome meal for
all of us.Next to our campsite&amp;nbsp; a couple guys showed up that
had just spent three weeks hiking through the Sawtooth mountains. We
invited them over to eat with us.&amp;nbsp; We all enjoyed the food and
conversation.We decided to be on the trail by 4:00AM using headlamps to avoid any mosquitoes and to hopefully see a great sunrise.Everyone headed to their tents.Sleeping
did not come easy. There was snoring from various tents and some other
hikers showed up late and were talking until after midnight.The 3:30AM alarm sounded and we all started to break down camp.I
took out my JetBoil and made some hot coffee and oatmeal. My breakfast
was cooked and ready to eat in under 10 minutes.&amp;nbsp; I was ready to go.Unfortunately others got up late and breakfast was a slower process.We
finaly got on the trail at about 5:45. It was later than we wanted, but
everyone was in good spirits and ready to attempt the summit.Out came the trekking poles and up the trail we went.The trail started out on a gradual incline and we made it into the trees.We did not need our flashlights or headlamps so we stowed the gear and continued up the trail.It didn't take long until the mosquitoes were known to us all.&quot;Hey....do you have any more repellent?&quot; became a common phrase.This lasted until we broke past the tree line and out onto the rocks.As the sun began to rise over the mountains, the shadows of the peaks being cast on the valley floor were an incredible sight.Once the sun had crested the ridges, the air began to warm up and we started to set a good pace.We
passed an area out on in the open where a rock wind shelter and fire
had been setup. I thought to myself that that would be a great place to
start from in the morning so that you could possibly be on the summit
and watch the sunrise.&amp;nbsp; Oh, well....maybe next time.The steepness leveled out and this gave our legs a rest. It was short lived though.Chicken Out Ridge was in front of us.We had hear so many stories of people turning back at this point that we were not sure what to expect. It was named Chicken Out Ridge because for a number of hikers, the exposure on both sides of the
ridge is enough to convince them to &quot;chicken out&quot; and return to camp.Google
maps, trail and summit logs.....everyone had a different story about
the COR. Granted, you are exposed on both sides, but it did not seem
that intimidating. This was actually a high-point of the climb for me.The trekking poles were put away and we started up Chicken Out Ridge.I
told the team to stay on top of the ridge line and not to try and work
their way around the edges. Everyone stayed on the ridge and made it
across the exposed area with no problems.We stopped and took a short break just below the ridge and discussed the snow crossing.The downclimb from Chicken Out Ridge onto the snow seemed harder than crossing the ridge itself.Once we had downclimbed onto the snow we were all ready to cross the saddle.There was already a path accross the saddle in the snow, so the ice axe was not needed.We all crossed the saddle and felt a sense of accomplishment.The
trail leveled off again and as we rounded a corner, we looked up and
saw the field of stone above us that we had to ascend. Our legs started
to hurt just looking at it.The air was thinner now and we began
to notice it a little. We drank water from our Camelbaks and ate some
energy bars and then steadied ourselves for the ascent.At a few places you could not find the trail in the loose rocks at all.Just look ahead and up, find something that resembles a trail and head for it.A few steps up...slide back.....a few more steps.....keep going.Watch your step....don't twist your ankle...easy on the knees....None of us wanted to have an injury this close to the summit.Finally the summit was in sight.You could see what looked like a small flag on top of the mountain.Another short, steep ascent and finally we were there!On top of Idaho! 12,662 feet high.5500 feet of elevation gain in 3 miles.We found the summit log and signed our names.Other teams had already summited and we asked them to take our picture with the summit flag.I just couldn't resist it....I had brought my GPS with the location of a geocache near the summitThe cache was located, the logbook signed, and then I sat down to take in the view.Beautiful unnamed alpine lakes and various peaks over 10,000 feet were in view from our vantage point along with a nice breeze.The valley was not as clear as we had hoped (maybe due to the smoke from a bad fire season) but the view was stlil awesome.After eating some lunch, it was time to head back down the mountain.The
scramble down the rocks proved to be hard on our knees (this was
anticipated) and the first aid kits had been stocked with Advil just in
case.One of the team members injured his knees and the weight
of his pack was causing pain. I took as much of his gear as possible to
lighten the load. He was able to keep moving under his own power.We slowly made it back to the trailhead and looked back at the mountain.The weather had held and everyone on the team made it to the summit and back.We put our packs in the back of the truck, headed into Mackay for a hamburger and fries.We were all tired, but we had accomlished what we set out to do.It had been a good day to summit.Now it was just a long 5 hour drive home. But after 5 years in the making, who's counting.......Geographical Information
Elevation: 12,662

State: Idaho

County: Custer

Mountain Range: Lost River

Latitude: 44.137ºN 

Longitude: 113.779ºW 




Historical Information
Alternative Names: Mount Borah



Route Information
Route: Southwest Ridge (most common)
Southwest Ridge Mileage: 7 miles round trip

Southwest Ridge Elevation Gain: 5,500 feet

Southwest Ridge Class: 3Adventure TipsStay
on top of Chicken Out Ridge. The ridgeline is the safest way over COR.
You can get into trouble if you attempt to climb on the sides.Even
into August there can be snow on the saddle after Chicken out Ridge.
You may want to bring and ice axe. I brought my ice axe, but it was not
needed. <br><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3326/3614420316_beb8f82ee1_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3376/3614421254_498fa858af_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2437/3613601833_4dd1c32d5c_m.jpg"/> <img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3012/3613601545_c02a667a49_m.jpg"/> ]]></description><guid>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=236777</guid><link>http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=236777</link><pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:28:08 -0500</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
	