We only climbed 1,000ft of elevation today, to some gorgeous alpine lakes with snowy peaks behind them. BUT... That elevation gain happened in probably half a mile. It was so steep! We were all sucking wind... And thankful that it didn't last any longer!
The worst part was, there were yaks climbing uphill with us... Going straight up instead of taking switchbacks, their giant bodies handling the elevation gain with ease. How is that even possible?Anyway, they were following us because the top leveled out to a beautiful alpine meadow- again with mountains all around- and there were scores of other yaks grazing there when we arrived. We also shared the meadow with some Blue Sheep, which are wild and native to the Himalayas.
If you look close at the picture to the left, there is a herd of blue sheep on the hillside - with their silhouettes shown by the white of the mountain. I got this photo right before they all spooked and ran up the mountainside out of the frame.
The alpine lake that was our destination was well worth it... The only problem was that everyone else was cold and/or hungry so they were ready to head back down within ten minutes. Dad and I could have stayed much longer, but we followed suit and joined them.
This whole hike was in preparation for tomorrow- when we will gain over 3,000ft of similar tough elevation to a pass at 16,000ft, and then hike 3,000ft down the other side. This all happens over 13 miles.
Considering we have only been doing 5 - 6 miles the past few days, I think many of us are going to be greatly challenged tomorrow. It will surely be the highest I have ever been... And a couple people are suffering from colds already. Here's hoping it all works out- I may just be too tired to write tomorrow!
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