12,633 feet.

Making my way up to the top.

For Cody's 25th Birthday we decided to climb the highest peak in Arizona.  Humphrey's Peak standing at 12,633 feet was just the perfect way to celebrate! We started our day at a wonderful breakfast restaurant in Flagstaff called Brandy's (this was featured on the lovely Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives!). We hit the trail at 8am so we could get to the top when it was at its warmest.  We knew there was snow at the top because you could see it from the distance but we thought it would only be a factor closer to the top. About an hour into our hike we hit the snow! Cody was very pleased about this, I on the other hand was not too excited but it grew on me. 

I struggled a little once we got to the first false peak.  A false peak is when you look up from hiking, see a peak, and then think you only have a little more to go. Then when you get to the top you realize there is a whole other peak to climb! The air got pretty thin and breathing became difficult. The wind was freezing cold and the snow was blinding thanks to the sun. You get to a point where your so physically exhausted after climbing uphill for three hours in the cold and snow that you want to give up.  Then you realize how far you have actually come and that desire to give up just disappears. 

This hike was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had.  To do this with the person I love the most was the best part.  I am constantly preaching to people to go on a hike with the one you love and you will learn things about them that you never knew.  We shared this amazing, difficult experience that took us a total of 7 hours and we came down from it as stronger individuals.  We build teamwork on these hikes and we continue to support each other when things become difficult. Getting to the top of Humphrey's and knowing I was at the highest point in Arizona was an accomplishment I have been planning since I moved out here. I recommend it to anyone.  I could see the Grand Canyon through our binoculars, that defiantly made me feel like I was on top of the world! I have officially caught the climbing bug.  Ashley I want to climb Rainier!