Gunsight Notch Peak

April 2, 2006

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Mike S. (juggling), Mike R., Joel, and Roy on summit

Ascending the steep canyon

We march upward, upward

Water flowing down the walls of Pine Creek

Juniper Peak with Calico Hills in the background from Gunsight Notch Peak

Report by Mike Ryan, Photos by Joel Brewster

It was another beautiful sunny Saturday at Red Rock. The "Fab Four" (Joel Brewster, Mike Ryan, Mike Shackleford, and Roy Trafton) decided to make the arduous ascent up to Gunsight Notch Peak. Led by the skillful trailblazing of Joel (also known as "The Mule" because of his propensity to carry heavy loads or small children up any trail), the group rock-hopped their way towards the summit.

Our route up the wet slabs in the canyon

Water flowed freely in Pine Creek, so finding a dry route was a little more challenging, but these stalwart LVMC hikers forged ahead. Schooled by the wisdom of Joel to always take the left fork (and avoid sharp knives), they progressed upstream like a troop of happy salmon. Once out of the brushy wash and into the beautiful canyon, the group paused to snack and listen zen-like to the many streams and rivulets that trickled over the rocks.

Mike R. descending the canyon

Then it was on to the summit. All were successful, although one person who we will not name had to do a little backtracking. This perfectly wonderful day was topped off by a little skinny-dipping in a crystal-clear ice cold pool. Can you say REFRESHING! Joel did film this event. CD's are available at a reasonable price for those 17 years of age or older. And so ends our tale; all I can say is that you should have been there!

Mike S. going for a BRISK swim in an icy pool