We have hiked more than 3.4 miles up mountains often; we have hiked up mountains with more than 4,100 feet elevation gain, less often. However, today was the first time we hiked 4,100 feet upwards in 3.4 miles. In fact, within the first mile, we would not be surprised to learn it is greater than 1,600 feet. For perspective, 600 feet per mile is a reasonable rate of ascension. Pyramid Peak, following the unofficial Rock Creek trail, is considered the severest vertical climb in the Tahoe Sierras. We can attest to the vertical part.
Last week, when we noticed ‘the pyramid’ from Mount Ralston, we mentioned to our lovely editor (now back to work) that we need to explore that ‘beauty’. “Of course, we should climb it if there is a way to the top,” she replied. However, a little later when she heard the statistics, she pushed the date back a year. Fortunately, we were able to convince her of the merits of completing the three peaks, Ralston, Tallac and Pyramid in one week. As we crossed Highway 50 after returning on the treacherous downward path, we sang to our heart’s delight: “3 peaks for Jenni.” We might have looked odd to passing motorists but then again, after seven hours on that mountain ‘odd’ is fine.
This and the previous blog are a bit technical, we admit. As they cover two very special hikes, we took the liberty of providing some ‘dry’ information. We conclude stating that we reached an altitude 10,000 feet (less seventeen), a round-trip distance of 7 miles and witnessed incredible sights once again. We gained a glimpse of Lake Tahoe, approximately 25 miles away by road, Fallen Leaf, Aloha and other lakes. The views of the surrounding mountains are enthralling including the two we climbed last week—Ralston and Tallac—some snow capped, snowfields, ski-slopes, thousands of trees filling the valleys and covering the slopes, meadows on mountain tops, all are captivating.
The initial part of the hike, both up and down was testing; the slope is suicidal in places. The last part, ascending on talus, is unusual. When we observed Pyramid Peak from both Ralston and Tallac, it looked like a smooth, one-piece granite rock. It’s not the case at all. The pictures will illustrate the true nature of the peak. As we climbed those pieces, with some moving beneath our feet at times, we wondered if we were not being a little fearful or was it in fact, a huge dosage of adrenaline released.
Finally, it took us three-and-half hours up and less than three down from the pyramid. No matter how attractive, it seems that sadists use pyramids to enslave people. Fortunately, we are free but chose to be masochists today.
A non-technical blog follows for those less interested in climbing. Kindly scroll down.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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