newbie making a test run to Chilnualna falls

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MountainMinstrel
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newbie making a test run to Chilnualna falls

Post by MountainMinstrel »

Hi everyone. I am a 50yr old(?) newbie who hasn't done any backpacking for 30+ years. But that is changing this year, as I am going for a three day to Jennie Lakes at the end of this month and Mt. Whitney in October. I have my pack and basic equipment all ready to go (about 20-25 lbs. without food). I am planning on taking a day hike to Chilnualna Falls this Sat. with the pack to see how it goes. Do you think this is a good idea? I just feel that I would rather sort out any problems on a solo day hike than to hold up my companions next week. What do you think?

Thanks
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DoyleWDonehoo
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Re: newbie making a test run to Chilnualna falls

Post by DoyleWDonehoo »

MountainMinstrel wrote:... I am going for a three day to Jennie Lakes at the end of this month and Mt. Whitney in October. I am planning on taking a day hike to Chilnualna Falls this Sat. with the pack to see how it goes. Do you think this is a good idea?
Well, doing Chilnualna Falls (2100 feet of gain, 3.5+ miles) in the summer heat is akin to beating yourself with a stick. Jennie Lakes is trivial in comparison, though if you do Whitney from the east side, well, nothing is going to prepare you for that (west side is better). A hike to Ostrander, Sunrise, Poly Dome, Young, 10 or Cathedral lakes may be more revealing.
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krudler
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Post by krudler »

Sounds like a great idea to me! You can always turn back.
Enjoy!
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MountainMinstrel
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Post by MountainMinstrel »

Well it looks like a tie here so...I will be up probably before dawn to try to beat at least some of the heat, and taking mucho water. It looks like I could cook and drown all in the same day. But at least I'll get the chance to test the rain gear :D
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Post by MountainMinstrel »

Well I survived the hike to Chilnualna Falls and I have to say, Doyle you were right. I do feel a bit like I have been beat with a stick. But I made the whole thing without any real difficulties and am chomping at the bit to get out of here next week. Jennie lakes here I come!!!

You know this may be the perfect way to make a 50 year old feel like a kid again. :D
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Post by krudler »

Woo hoo!
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Post by dreamer »

Hey newbie. Glad you liked the falls. Pretty area, really. As for Whitney -- if my best friend could make it to the top when she was a smoker (hard core smoker back then) and had a hernia that needed surgery, then so can you! She was well into her 40s then. Might encounter some interesting weather in October, so be prepared. We spent one night the first time, and then I went once in a day. Hard, but I'd do it again if I had a chance. Only this time, I'd want to time myself.
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Post by Snow Nymph »

MountainMinstrel wrote:
You know this may be the perfect way to make a 50 year old feel like a kid again. :D
Exactly how I feel on the weekends! :D :D :D
Expose yourself to your deepest fear; after that, fear has no power, and the fear of freedom shrinks and vanishes. You are free . . . . Jim Morrison


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MountainMinstrel
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Post by MountainMinstrel »

If anyone is interested here are some shots of the hike.
http://community.webshots.com/album/552941569UDjcwF
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Trailtrekker06
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Post by Trailtrekker06 »

Looks like a beautiful place, thanks for posting the photos!
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