Pisgah after first frost

ByMichael Goatbells

The morning was cold and in some places frost. My hike at Mt. Pisgah started around 11:30 after breakfast and warmer weather.

Just past the North TH in the shade some frost lingered and spider webs were magic

If there was any question about fall’s arrival, the thistle sealed the deal

On the other hand, the forest was recovering from late summer browns and the trailside greens were in full force after the recent rains.

From Pisgah summit, the atmosphere was bad to the east toward Lowell. My guess is that a combination of no upward air, wood fires for the cold morning, and possible smoke from Emigrant fire. But hazy at best

The second time at the summit around 1pm, S. Sister and Broken top more clearly showed off their new snow.

The Route

Started at North TH, wound around Tr 3 to Tr 4/2 to the summit, and then back down to Tr 2 all the way to East TH. There, a mid-sized feline was standing in the trail. After a 60 second stare down and photos, it wandered off the other way (the way I planned to go). I figured best to give it space, and I turned around and retraced my steps. The feline photo? You have to ask. It was fab!

Human traffic was very light on the back side of the hill – peaceful. Even the summit trail was light traffic for such a nice day.

Data Geek Cellar

  • Shoes: Altra Lone Peak 7 mesh lowers
  • Pack: REI Flash 18
  • Upper Layers: 2 – long-sleeve base-layer and SkyGoat fleece
  • Upper shell: none
  • Trekking Poles: Gossamer Gear
  • Approximate Times: 10:45 – 2:00
  • Carbon ratio: 1.75 hours (1.5 hours driving: 3.25 hours hiking); YTD = 157 hours banked
  • Miles hiked YTD: 1045
  • Notes:
    • Photos: low
    • Speed: fast – >3.0 mph
    • Difficulty: easy

All Trails Data was not available as the app froze at the “Record” and I didn’t look back.