I was up at 0530 and on the road soon after that. We were at the trail head by 0630 and on the move.

We were at the top in 45 min. The view was “great”. Strike that. My view was fog and a dog. The trail is almost empty at this time of the morning.

My gear this am was a 20.2 lbs Dueter 42 Futura Pro backpack. Outdoor Research: rain gear, cold weather hat, and gloves. Mountain Hard Wear puffy (for me), Ruffler puffy (for Kersee), MSR PocketRocket 2 mini w/ lighter and cleaning kit, Katadyn Hiker Water Filter w/ 2 – 700 ml SmartWater bottles, Black Diamond headlight, first aid kit, food ( 3.74 lbs), Gerber knife, Emergency blanket, Space All-Weather blanker w/ 550 cord, bathroom kit, and a Titanium spoon.

Kersee had on a Ruffewear Singletrak Pack and a water bowl.