The hiking club (or at least the few who were able to attend) braved the weather for what ended up being an amazing hike up the summit of Mount Osceola. The forecast was sunny, temperatures ending up in the mid 40's and wind gusts up to 60 mph.
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| USGS Surveying Seal: Osceola Peak 4315 ft |
The day started with temperatures in the 30's and warmed up gradually. There had been snow the night before so Osceola was covered! The snow melted as we ascended the mountain creating fog and simulated rain drops all while the sun was shining. It was an odd experience however we were thankful for our rain shells.
The summit was beautiful and the sun managed to stay out long enough for the club to enjoy the view. Mr. Boyle and the students even for the opportunity to help the local squirrel population be providing them a few accidental m&m's. Soon the sun went in and the wind started to blow so the club made it back for the van. Total trip time was about 5 and a half hours: 2hr 30min for the ascent and 2hr 15 min for the descent.
All said and done the hike went off very well. No broken gear, no broken hikers, and the satisfaction of summiting a quite beautiful mountain. Also the SJP Hiking Club enters the 4k footer game!
