A couple of weeks ago I had a great time at HM. Hiked up to Cottonwood pass, then along the ridgeline to Trail pass, then back to camp. It was a great hike. I thought of going up to Trail Peak, but wanted to save energy for my upcoming day hike. Hindsight being 20-20, should have gone up to Trail Peak.
I had an encounter with some of the cows at the first stream crossing up to Cottonwood pass. It was very early and the sun was comming up. I think both sides were startled at the meeting, but what really got my adrenaline going was out of the 5 black cows, there was a much bigger, rust color, with big horns, bull standing on the other side of the stream. Fortunately, he took off after the cows as they went back towards the meadow. I had a brief thought of 'who needs to go to Spain to run with the bulls? I can do it right here at 10k'
Also had some great campsite neighbors. We combined our resources and had a great happy hour. Beer, wine, whiskey, cheese, crackers, pretzels, peanuts, trail mix, double stuff oreos, fig newtons, a campfire and good conversation. A good time was had by all!
