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Hiking | 8.40 Miles |
3,499 AEG |
| Hiking | 8.40 Miles | | | |
3,499 ft AEG | | | | |
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| no partners | | After a lifetime of wondering about the Amethyst Mine hike, I figured I'd better do this one. I started my hike up Browns Trail in near freezing temps this morning, and reached Browns Saddle in less than an hour. Lots of golden brown autumn color from the gambel oaks at this time. I bushwhacked down from the saddle to reach the Amethyst Trail, then cruised along its brushy course, enjoying awesome up-close views of Four Peaks while my bare lower legs got scratched to pieces. Scattered pines and firs against a backdrop of jagged peaks: good stuff! A very "sky island" experience. I got to the amethyst mine's gate, and decided to bushwhack way down below the mine property to search for some amethyst. I came away with a few pieces of amethyst float, washed down by countless rains. Nothing great, but hey, how often do I find amethyst on a hike? I returned to Brown's Saddle, then ascended the always exciting Brown's Peak with a healthy amount of fear. Took some photos on top, then made the hike back down to less vertical terrain. I believe I'll pass on the Motherlode. Browns Trail had a surprising number of hikers going up while I was going down. Clouds rolled in after departing from the trailhead, and Four Peaks got teased by some passing snow flurries. A very fun day today. |
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Autumn Foliage Observation Moderate
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"…you never know when a hike might break out" -Jim Gaffigan |
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