On the topic of no training or physiology of old age or just out of shape...I'm not really able to hike / backpack like I used to due to family commitments, but I still have aspirations to do things and am stubborn enough to still try.
I lost a few more toenails but unfortunately no cellulite this weekend going for a second try at Tyndall - after being chased off Williamson in the rain last summer.
Woke up Sunday morning at 12,000 ft feeling like my head was exploding and wanting to puke...couldn't eat more than 2 small bites of the rock hard pnut butter granola bar that was supposed to be breakfast. Like my friend said, felt like a really bad hangover. Could have been caffeine withdrawls though...
Anyhow, couldn't let that stop me since I didn't feel like a third try...so I put on my huge, albeit almost empty backpack and started shuffling towards the north rib like a zombie.
For some reason, I started feeling better about half way to the summit and by the time we summitted, I felt great!
I wouldn't recommend everyone ignore those symptoms, but there you go.
For those of you unfamiliar with Shepard's Pass, it's 11 miles and 6,000 ft. elevation gain to the top of the pass from the trailhead and except for Bulldozer Gulley below Anvil Camp, it's in fairly good shape now (compared to when we did it last year).
Shepard's Pass from the ridge of Polychrome Peak:
And while you're up there, you should check out Polychrome Peak as well. It's like a miniature Alabama Hills on the summit:
Anyhow, just saying don't discount the benefits of training because you will enjoy yourself more and probably be a little faster and lighter on your feet...but don't discount old bags with gummy tummies either because they can be stubborn
