67.05 Punta de Hidalgo: Chinamada: Not just a taste of heaven but a large hug, too, and the usual 'slug' to the top.
From the outset of this hike, a person immerses oneself in rugged beauty. There's never a moment when one is not gazing, entranced or surrounded by fascinating plant life, distinctive mountains and coloring and less frequently, views of the ocean and even the town. Of course, upon acquiring altitude, the views below and into the canyon and across it, add an additional dimension of perspective. More height adds further exposure to previously hidden mountains and features as well as to distant sights including rural dwellings and other structures nestled into the mountain slopes. While surrounded by these multi-faceted attractions, one continues the climbing struggle, often balanced on precarious edges. The trail is extremely well-constructed including much variation, steep and frequently, alters its direction. These components add further to the previous comment about it being an unusually varied experience. Upon reaching the peak, additional views comprise farm...