Paths to my personal best

I took another run today at Tiger Mountain, following West Tiger 3 from the road leading to the trail head to the terminus at 2,522 feet. It started out easy, but after a few heat flashes, it became difficult, and finally, grueling. Washington Trails Association says it isfive miles round trip and a gain of 2,100 feet. Based on today's experience, this will likely be my training trail for the foreseeable future. I probably walked more than five miles because of where I parked, but I will go with WTA figures.

The lighting was very favorable, so I engaged in a favorite pastime -- capturing images of the trail, which follow.

Distance: 5.5 miles, or 10.4 km *
Elevation gain: 2,100 feet
Load: 13-pound pack
Notes: Forgot bug spray again; the bugs are out, and when I sit down to rest they find me. Lot of sweating, but I hydrated enough that I didn't get charlie horses; however, I think I came close on one occasion when I was trying to get my boots off. Statistics: Washington Trails Association said this was a five mile hike, but the trailhead sign said it was 6 to the lookout. I've added to that a half-mile to the car, which is probably understated.

Stats for year to date:
Distance: 269.94 km
Elevation Gain: 18,270 feet