55.21 Andorra: Pic Casamanya, one hike we never wish to miss, come rain or storm.

After climbing for a while, Jen stands before 5 false peaks, the first three being tough. (See below)

Recently popped out of the forest. The protrusions at right give one a reliable indication of what lies ahead, just one of a few to go.
In each place we revisit, there are always hikes that we have to repeat, sometimes multiple times. It's always because they provide a unique challenge rather than an opportunity for an easy day. Easy hikes are almost a waste of time unless they afford a person something special like incredible views or someone's giving out ice-cream cones at the peak. It goes without saying we're about to mention Pic Casamanya, a hike we completed for the fourth occasion last Friday (1st of this trip). What makes this particularly one special is that it is a tough challenge on the strenuous side rather than difficult. It climbs quickly at over 1,000 feet per mile. There are 5 false peaks following the climb through the forest and the somewhat steeper ascent thereafter. A person knows the smooth, steep mounds ahead are but just one before the next. While one hopes the next peak is it, experience tells us that just when you think you are about to summit, you're wrong. 

  We have a little history with Casamanya (always sounds and usually is ominous). In 2016, we headed for the peak one early Friday morning. Jen was nervous as she noticed the early formation of clouds. When we reached approximately half-way up, she decided the stress of the build-up in the sky was too much for her. Generally, and understandably, she has a fear of electric storms. We agreed that she would return to the car while I'd dash up and down and join her thereafter, after completing the dashes. 

  As I approached the peak, there was a flash of lightning followed as is predictable, by a crash of thunder. Rain and hail followed while I stood like the 'not so smart' fellow I am. I will admit, I cannot understand how anyone could contradict the feeling that it was intimidating (how about frightening?). Certainly, the first few flashes and thunderbolts are enough to make a person experience serious fear. Hail stones striking the head and knuckles is not without pain. I'll leave it there but will concede as much as I tried to avoid the lightning, I did take a few pictures between flashes. They are published below illustrating the contrast of a sunny and not so sunny day.  

  There is additional good news to this little story. In fact, two parts to form a happy ending. Jenni waited in the car for my return. I did not have to walk back home. In addition, she awaited my arrival to eat brunch thus ensuring I would at least have a reasonable portion. Some days, I have all the good fortune.

Always nice to keep an eye on the towns below.

Or keep an eye on the route back down.

There was only one pair of hikers ahead of us. One of them stood above, on the third false peak.
Jen passes the rocky outcrop and takes a peek at the town...it's still there.
Indicative of the mountainous nature of the region.
Jen about to reach the peak. The shirt attached to the pole belongs to the hiker mentioned earlier. The shirt really suits his body.
However, what she fails to admit is that she 'cheated' for the last part of the ascent. Apparently, the pilot was out for a spin counting trees for the local census and when Jen waved, he decided to offer her a kindness. Meantime, Mr. Plod ahead was oblivious to this.
Mr. Plod approaching the peak. This was the easy section.
Jen a few feet below the peak but in a far more attractive position.
6 years prior, a similar position but after a hail storm. (No pain, no gain (beauty)).
As above, less rain, no hail.
Plod awaits the arrival of the passenger. Wonders why he missed a ride.
Perhaps, recalls the lightning storm that created a precarious situation.
On a clear day, life and the sights are very different.
Captures the peak and for a moment thinks he's a big deal until he remembers his insignificance in the scheme of things.
I wanted to say Jen finally gets off her 'high horse' and meanders over to the peak but I suppose she got off a 'chopper'.
She makes her way down from the peak the old-fashioned way.
From the peak (2016), an amazing sight but one filled with risks.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey