Plateau Mountain

I had parted company with a fellow hiker upon reaching the trail junction in the col between Sugarloaf and Plateau Mountain. I decided to tackle the steeper mountain first, and began my ascent to Plateau. The morning sun had been hidden by the mountains when I began my climb. Soon it began to peek above the ridge behind me, and I stopped to peel off a layer of fleece.

Temperature were still just a bit above freezing, but the exertion of the hike through a series of switchbacks kept me warm. The trail was not as clearly blazed as I would have liked. I stopped every now and then to confirm I was not drifting too far off course.

I continued to look back over my shoulder, watching the sun rise at my back. This hike was steep, and my lungs were feeling the burn. Behind me, Sugarloaf stood in the distance, reminding me that I was not yet even halfway through the hike.

Before long I was presented with some good opportunities to scramble over boulders that had once been part of a tropical seabed millions of years ago.

Above 3500 feet, the precipitation had turned to snow, perhaps only a day ago. The light dusting reminded me of the season to come. I was looking forward to the change in scenery. Winter hiking is my favorite.

On my way to the trail that runs along the ridge, I passed two hikers that were also making their way to the top. I nodded good morning and kept going. I don’t like to hesitate or stop on the steeps.

Reaching the top, there wasn’t a canister or marker to identify the peak. The trail continued away from Plateau towards other destinations, but this was my turnaround point. I had a date with Sugarloaf in the opposite direction.

On my descent, I passed the hikers that were now closing in on the summit of Plateau.

I would guess they were in their 30’s and I smile and greeted them in passing. The second hiker, greeted me in return. She smiled and said between breaths, “Good morning sir, I hope when I reach your age, I am in such good health.”

I laughed, mostly to myself and said thank you. Apparently I am indeed old, just not yet decrepit!

Down I went and on to Sugarloaf!