Hurrying towards North Schell Peak, sunlight bounces off something in the distance. My brain screams “reflection,” but a nagging voice whispers, “roll down the window, buddy, is that thunder?” Turns out, the little voice was Einstein today. Another flash, then a rumble confirms it – storm’s brewing, maybe 6 km out by the sound of it. Time to ditch the hike, park above Timber Creek, and see which way this tempest decides to blow. One hour rain check, Mother Nature!
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Ten minutes by the car, all seemed peaceful. New plan: hike the scenic creek trail to the tree line and see how the storm unfolds. Easy path, wispy clouds, zero rain – things were looking up. But wait! Dark clouds creep in from both sides, like a scene straight out of a movie. Before you know it, rain starts falling, but hey, it wasn’t a complete downpour. Sheltered by the trees for 45 minutes, the storm grumbled for an hour before finally clearing out. Blue skies again? Time to crush this hike!
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Reaching the end of the ravine where the stream dives under the snowpack, I veer right and walk up some slightly steeper, rocky slopes. Easy climb though, no trail needed! Half an hour later, I reach a small saddle below the summit. A few more minutes and I’m on top! Panoramic views in every direction, a small stick marking the summit, and even a benchmark. After a classic apple refuel, I head back down the same way I came.
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A little over an hour later, I’m back at the car and cruising towards Ely. Two nights in town – comfy digs and some evening work to catch up on. Wheeler Peak’s calling, and tomorrow, that summit is mine!