23.05 Sierra Nevada Mountain Loop 23.06 Los Cahorras (Gorge), Monachil

The wide open spaces, Sierra Nevada.






The ski village of Pradollano, (without a house), at the base of Pico Veleta, 400 feet
up from lower village.



Following a rest after the climb to Pico Veleta, we did a hike below the big mountain but came
across enough smaller ones to feel the strain on the muscles. The following day, we headed down a
mountain road by car to reach the town of Monachil, a few thousand feet lower than our base. It was
also about twenty degrees warmer. Upon arriving in the town we decided to rather return and hike
at higher altitude—one of our smarter moves. While driving up the steep road, we noticed two youngsters
struggling in the heat and offered them a ride. Each couple tried to communicate in Spanish and with
hand-signals. Turns out they were from Michigan. We understand the northern accent so we were able
to converse intelligently without putting too much emphasis on the adverb. They had been searching for
the hike we had intended undertaking. Although we had not found the trailhead, we thought by then we
had passed it.

They were a little lost which begs the question of how many degrees of lost there really are. We offered
to take them to another hike or drop them at the main highway. They elected the former and when we arrived
close to the trailhead, they expressed concern that the only bus stop they knew of was close to where
we picked them up. (They relied on bus transport). What was that all about? So down the mountain we drove
for the second time. We arrived at the parking lot, which is nearly a mile from the trailhead, and decided
to hike as it made no sense to return again. Besides, it was late. In retrospect, it worked out well
and the hike was enjoyable notwithstanding the harsh conditions.




Jen crests after a big climb from down yonder only to face another.





Another sunset from the village of Pradollano.





In the gorge and along the edge.





Breathtaking sunsets in the region.



We took the full loop which climbs over 1,200 feet out of the gorge and places one towards the top of
the mountain with wonderful views. The walk in the gorge and along the river was a different experience
and cool as well. The downside (which was actually the 'upside') was by that time the temperature
reached 105 degrees. As some tell us, it's not too bad should it be a dry heat. We found that very comforting
and although Jenni felt like fainting for the final stretch, she took solace that it was a dry heat and
therefore, most pleasant. Our only concern was that we had planned another climb to Pico Veleta
for the next day and wanted to be in peak condition. In case we forgot to mention it, we love the Veleta.




A house at the peak in what seems a harsh and dry climate. (Actually, 'seems' is a kind word in this context.)





Always time for some action...about to reach top.





I've got that sinking feeling, a spent force...temporarily.





Next stop the Mediterranean, a full moon reflects.


Cheers,


Jenni and Jeffrey