Second of three sections of inclines up the Frenchman. (One of us might be spotted on the trail...see the dot.)
We hiked the French Mountain last year. It is very steep, the path is a 4-wheel drive road covered with loose stones. I'd like to see a car negotiate that road. The editor, for reasons that sort of make sense, hated the hike last year, particularly the downhill stretch. On the other hand, I think it is a great workout with incredible views of desert mountains, Lake Mead and Las Vegas. In fact, it is difficult to argue against the experience because of the many positive elements. Anyway, the editor decided she would not climb it on principle. I had never seen her so adamant about a hike or the fervent passion not to attempt it again.
We climbed part of Sunrise Mountain which sits opposite the Frenchman, earlier. The weather turned poor with the winds blustering at dangerous levels of velocity for mountain edges. So we headed down and I could not help noticing the impossibly steep channel of the Frenchie beckoning from across the way. The editor suggested that I take a quick 'run' up while she would wait in the car. I loved the idea wondering why I had not thought of it. Actually I had. I just did not have the courage to suggest we do it. Far be it to encourage a person to go against her principles. In a moment of brazen stupidity, I suggested she walk up to a point, a little under half-way up. I mentioned that the rough stony area was above where she would turn around, therefore, it would meet her criteria. To my surprise and glee, she agreed to break with principle and off we went. I knew I had to move fast so that I could reach the target, turn around and hopefully, catch her before she reached the car. Jen in fact did not stop at the agreed position but continued until I reached my endpoint. I signaled for her to turn and we eventually met and walked the final bit to the car together.
I loved the hike, the views were stunning and Jen did not concede that it was okay but she did her bit so who cares. Nevertheless, three days later, knowing the weather had turned for the worse, Jenni decided to invoke principles again and not join me for a sunrise hike on the Frenchman. I had the urge to do it and endure the wonderful climb to heights above the greater Las Vegas region. The weather forecasters, unfortunately, were correct. It was extremely cloudy with light rain. Luckily, as we completed the hike, it turned into a shower. It was my good fortune to meet a young man, Matt, partway up. His friend decided to return to the car and so we spent the whole time conversing on a myriad of subjects. Suffice to say, when a person meets a kindred spirit, there 'ain't' too many pauses in the conversation. It was a real pleasure, Matt.
The 'comet'...as the sun lights a column of mountains and the edge of another.
Another stunning view closer to the second of three tops.
Jen passes the only other hikers on trail, a family of four.
Meantime, upon leaving the Sunrise mountain, we head down to attempt the Frenchman.
Jen hangs back as she catches the sun hit the side wall and her hubby moving up relatively fast.
On a relatively dull day weather wise, the sun makes a breakthrough.
Frenchman 2: Sunrise on a dull and rainy day. Three days later, at about 6:20am, I reached this location with a partial view of the city.
More backlit mountains as we get close to ground level.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
Frenchman 2 (Sunrise). On the way down with Matt, we had beautiful views and could even check on our cars below.
The 'original little Frenchman' (Benny) fights his fear and succeeds.
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