The late start
It was late. As I parked my car, I noticed the sun was dimly illuminating the path ahead. I was mentally prepared for the challenge ahead – my first-night hike. I have hiked many mountains, slept in the backcountry, and take night photos from the comfort of my car. But, I always followed a simple rule – “Lights out, Diego in.” It is not that I’m afraid of the dark, but this sunny boy has a healthy respect for mountain creatures who are fully equipped with night vision, huge claws, and sharp teeth.
The climb
As I began my climb, I checked my camera bag (for the 1000th time) looking for my headlamp, a warm hoodie, and (the very relevant) bear spray. Everything was in place, so I had no excuse to turn around and go back to the car. Now the options were to either fully commit to the adventure or accept the boy scout badge of scared chicken, and I ain’t no chicken (or so I like to say to myself). The sun was still illuminating my path during the first 5 kilometers, I was hiking up this steep mountain like a champ. However, my cruising speed drastically decreased as the sunlight faded, it almost felt like I was equipped with solar power engines, some sort of solar-powered Tesla (who am I kidding, I’m at best an old Toyota Prius – boring, but reliable).
The Reward
The mission, up to that moment, was a complete success. I got up in the mountain, took a beautiful sunset photo, ate my chocolate bar, and now it was time to go back to my car. With the sunlight completely gone, I reached out for my headlamp and my hoodie before starting the hike. Warm and with light to guide me through the dense forest, I was ready for the challenge.
The end
I walked over 15 kilometers in a pitch-dark environment. I could only see the patches that my headlamp would illuminate, this uncomfortable situation was taking a toll on my energy level. All I could think was how the absence of light, changes our perception of time and distance. Hiking the last 5 km felt like an eternity, and I kept expecting to see the trailhead after every turn. When I finally got to my car (and stopped shaking), I kept thinking – Mountain Lion, tonight you sleep hungry because I ain’t going back there. Well, at least not for that night.
Sunset from the top of Sulphur Skyline Trail