Transition

The rain lashes against the windshield, a cold symphony mimicking the tremor in my hands. Trapper Peak looms ahead, shrouded in mist and promising an icy welcome. It’s August 29th, and instead of sun-drenched summits, I’m facing a gauntlet of hypothermia. But hey, what’s a little discomfort when a mountain whispers your name?

Yesterday, I was basking in the warm glow of camaraderie at the Leverich Canyon Crankup. John Curry, as always, left the competition in the dust, a blur of wheels and grinning grit. But the real win was catching up with friends, their laughter a balm to the recovery fatigue lingering from those endless 100-milers and 24-hour races.

Evening saw me huddled around a table with Sten and Kristy, the clink of cutlery and murmur of jokes chasing away the shadows. It was a simple moment, bathed in the golden glow of friendship, a reminder of the quiet joys that fuel every uphill battle.

But the road always beckons, and tonight, it leads to Trapper Peak. Rain whispers of retreat, paints doubt on the windshield, but the mountain’s call echoes louder. This isn’t just a hike; it’s a dance with the elements, a test of spirit against the bite of the wind.

Maybe I’m crazy, maybe I’m just a glutton for punishment. But when the world shrinks to the rhythm of your own breath, to the crunch of boots on wet earth, that’s when the magic happens. That’s when the chill becomes a baptism, the rain a cleansing storm, and the summit, a hard-won crown forged in the crucible of discomfort.

So, Trapper Peak, here I come. Hypothermia be damned, my spirit’s a furnace that won’t be doused by a little rain. This mountain may test me, but I’ll dance with it, embrace the icy wind, and claim that summit as my own. Stay tuned, folks, for this is a story written in raindrops and etched in frozen footprints. The adventure awaits.

Resources

Trapper Peak: This is the highest peak in the Bitterroot Range, standing at 10,157 feet¹²³. The climb is a steep, strenuous hike³. Beyond the wilderness boundary, the trail becomes indistinguishable but is marked by cairns³. It’s necessary to pack water as there is none along the trail³.

Leverich Canyon Crankup Mountain Bike Race: This race takes place on the Leverich Canyon Loop, a popular mountain biking trail⁴⁵⁶⁷. The trail is known for its steep but smooth singletrack trail up the mountainside⁴.

Recovering from 100 milers and 24-hour races: Recovery from such intense races is crucial. It’s important to rest, hydrate, and replenish your body with proper nutrition^89101112.

Preventing Hypothermia: As you’re heading out in cold and rainy conditions, it’s important to take measures to prevent hypothermia. Wear synthetic materials or wool, which can keep you warm even when wet^1314151617. Stay hydrated and snack often^1314151617.