Desert Divide: Sam Fink Trail
Leader: Paul Lipsohn
Asst.: Les Stockton
Despite the weatherman's dire weekend predictions, 26 indefatigable climbers
assembled at Morris Ranch Road for a short caravan to the trailhead at Tripp
Meadow. We climbed the "Switchback Trail," and on attaining the main ridge
exchanged backpacks for summit bags and began the southern leg of our trip.
Blessed by improving weather, which ultimately became just overcast, we promptly
bagged Pyramid Peak, Lion Peak and Pine Mtn. During lunch on Pine Mtn. we
reconsidered our plans to attempt the summit block on Pine due to a shortage of
time and equipment. Resuming our northward trek, we regained our packs and
proceeded for Palm View Peak, arriving in a white-out that was to remain
throughout the rest of the trip. This marked the end of the trip for 11
climbers, who were led back to the cars, while 16 backpackers proceeded towards
Fobes Saddle and a well deserved rest.
An early call started our peak-baggers off into the gloom towards Spitler Peak
on Sunday. Passing through oak, fir, and cedar groves, we soon attained our
summit, paused briefly, and pushed on for Apache Peak. On reaching Apache Peak,
the weather really turned poor, forcing cancellation of plans to do Antsell
Rock. Retracing our steps through wind-driven rain we regained our camp, rapidly
packed up and returned to the cars at Morris Ranch. Wet, tired, cold, and
hungry, most of the group assembled at Mountain Center for hot food and an early
start home.
