Sat, Aug 15 2009 - Summit Sunset Series #1 - Mount Yonah (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Tony C, cliff j Participants: Tony C, cliff j, megan crute, Katy Dennison, Angela, Scott Looper, Launa, Kristi, Jim, Arlene S, Suzie Q

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Write Up:
The weather cooperated perfectly for our hike....we set off on the trail at about 6pm.  Despite it being a mid-August day, once we got under the trees, it felt better and then it cooled off quickly as it got later into the evening.  We hiked at a very reasonable pace up to the first overlook where we took a break and enjoyed the view.   Then we headed up the steepest part of the trail and made our way to "The Boulder" where we took in the views of the mtns and the clouds (see pics).  After making our way up the trail to the top of the mountain, we enjoyed the dry conditions and could explore much more than on past Yonah hikes when the rock was wet.  We hiked along the edge with firm footing and just enjoyed the wide open spaces up there. 

After meeting up with the rest of our group who had hiked ahead to get a better workout, we took a quick trip to the actual summit and then headed back down to the prime viewing area for the sunset.  It did not disappoint and the clouds took on brilliant red and purple hues as the sun dropped further and dipped below the horizon.  We hung out for awhile and enjoyed the fading colors and then headed down with our headlamps.   It was an easy cool hike down and after some superb stargazing at the trailhead, we headed home....another great day on Yonah.

Pics: http://tonycicc.smugmug.com/gallery/9332468_Du66z

Sarita's pics:  http://picasaweb.google.com/SaritaGx5/MtYonahPics?authkey=Gv1sRgCK_ptdTS29HSggE#

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