Comanche - Spring - Venable
Date: 8/1/2021
Partner: Heather Ryan (Photos all)
Trailhead: Comanche/Venable Trailhead
Summits: Comanche Peak, Spring Mountain, Venable Peak
Distance: 13.9m
Elevation Gain: 5300ft
Duration: 7hrs
GPX
Comanche Peak 14ers.com Page
Spring Mountain 14ers.com Page
Venable Peak 14ers.com Page
The weather wasn't great but with no real storms in the forecast, we agreed that that getting after these peaks in the fog could be fun.
The route consisted of cruiser trail to and from the passes. The hiking up and down the peaks themselves was class two. The most challenging aspect of the day was navigation without visibility.
At the start of the day, we considered adding PT12,873 to the mix. However we opted out of that given the visibility and chances of deteriorating conditions.
The mist in the trees was haunting, the wildflowers were in full bloom, the marmots were wet and we were buzzed by an eagle. All in all this was an awesome day in the Misty Mountains!
13.9m - 5300ft - 7hrs
A vast majority of the day was on cruiser trail
Venturing into the misty mountains
Heading up Comanche - Thankful there was no slick talus
Purple Rain
Wildflowers pop against the fog
We stuck to the ridge on the way to Spring Peak
Watch out for the slippery lichen
We briefly got off route descending Spring's summit. Navigation can be tricky with no visibility
Oh... Hey there lil' buddy!
So... What's your name?
How ya like my new hair?
Best lookin moist marmot I've seen outside of Vegas
Back on route, we navigated the slick lichen to Venable Peak
Coolest terrain of the day
More foggy views of gorgeous fog. Thankful for mild temps and no wind
The clouds briefly cleared on Venable's summit and I opted for a power nap
Oh... that's what Venable's summit ridge looks like. Back into the fog
A walk through the enchanted forest on the cruiser trail back to the truck
Frosty Ball Thistle (from outer space)