1088. Pinnacles Middle Loop (06/24/17)

Hikers (11): Andres, Camly, Chinyet, Gavin, Jeff, Karl, Megan P, Mihail, Peter, Ronald, Sarbinder
Distance: 17 miles
Rating: 5 difficulty, 9 beauty
Park info: Pinnacles National Monument south of Hollister

Peter owes a writeup! -- Pictures by Karl and Megan

We had 5 Pig Fence Virgins on this hike, including 3 INCH newbies! This is a tough hike, even for the most grizzled INCH veteran, especially on a day in the high 90s, let alone an INCH first-timer. Andres, who was training for a Spartan Race, just breezed through. Ronald and Camly struggled a bit, but both kept a great attitude throughout the hike, and I'm happy to report they also completed it in good spirits. Great way to get your first leaf!

Torture time about to start!

Camly looking forward to her first INCH climb -- she picked a good one

Newbies get their first taste of The Fence

Andres showing good form up the climb

More vertical torture ahead

Helluva climb!!!

Finally at North Peak (the midday cloud cover helped a lot)

Nice uncrowded afternoon at the Bear Gulch Reservoir

Heading up to the High Peaks on the second leg

View of Pinnacles on an overcast muggy afternoon

Milestones:
Andres's 1^st leaf
Camly's 1^st leaf
Megan P's 10^th leaf
Ronald's 1^st leaf

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