Was out of camp by 4:15 am. My goal was to make it to the top of Mathers Pass before sunrise. Success. The mountain peaks looked majestic as they lit up before the valley below.

I also had wanted to make it down before the downhill slope saw sunlight. This helps prevent my micro spikes from slipping, which happens as soon as the sun warms and melts the snow.

I had to run down at the end to find dirt to do my business in. I had to do this on Forester Pass, so I had some idea of how quickly I needed to move.

The valley below was a non-stop adventure through some of the most incredible scenery. Had breakfast with a view, had lunch next to a river (which I took a little dip), and didn't ever stop taking pictures. I even learned that this awesome phone can take slow-mo videos... Enjoy.

I could have spent a week in this valley, but instead only had a day.