One of the real challenges of climbing Bare (mountain, that is) is trying to
scout the trip. My first, and almost my last attempt was thwarted by two hunters
looking for a moving target. Believe me, by the second shot I was really
moving. The following week weather conditions prevented me from reaching the
top.
November 22 dawned clear and crisp; a perfect no-hunting season day.
Thirty-eight people met at Newcomb's Ranch at 9:00 and caravanned over to Horse
Flats Campground. The ascent of Hillyer was uneventful, and I was happy to
congratulate four on scaling their first peak.
Returning to our cars, we continued down an excellent dirt road to Pinyon Flats.
On the way we suffered our first casualty, a dented fly wheel housing.
A little over half way up Bare Mtn., news was relayed up the line that Larry
Salmon, assistant leader, was having a problem. One of the hikers, a man who had
that same morning done his first peak, was having great difficulty breathing. As
it turned out, he has emphysema, and perhaps was ill-advised trying to hike. The
resultant stop for first aid analysis immediately precipitated further problems.
It was apparent from the beginning that several individuals were unhappy about
the slow pace of the hike. (Next time, fellas, read the write-up.) Ignoring the
emergency stop, they continued on. As they were reminded and others should note,
the Sierra Club Rules of Conduct state: Never precede the leader.
Bare Mtn. summit is right there on top so shortly the party was back together,
signed in, looked about, and headed down.
