Saturday, December 23
Summits: Wildcat A-D; Carter Dome; South, Middle, and North Carter; Moriah
Start: Wildcat ski area
Finish: Carter-Moriah TH
Miles: 17.84 (+9.41 bike ride)
Elevation gain/loss: 7280′ (+1237′ bike ride)
After dropping off my bike at the trailhead last night, I slept out in my car and was at the Wildcat ski area’s lot C by 5:45am. I headed out by headlamp and made quick work of the climb, cruising along Wildcat ridge by sunrise. The trail was thick and slick black and blue ice, and I was very glad of my sharp trail crampons today; with sufficient traction, I was able to make quick time. After the Wildcats, I dropped down to the hut where I stopped for a snack and to refill my water.
I climbed up to Carter Dome and then over South, Middle, and North Carter. The descent off North Carter was spicy, but my spikes took good care of me. I took a quick break after and switched my empty water bottle for the one I filled up at the hut. I then realized that the hut water had at least a tablespoon of dirt and leaves in it, as well as a dead spider bobbing on top. I considered it a loss and tossed it. I made it up to Moriah with little trouble and then hurried down as quick as I could. I made it to the bottom by 2:45pm and transitioned over to my bike.
After packing up my bike lock, adding neoprene toe covers and a helmet, I headed out. The ride took a bit longer than I had expected but my legs were tired. The route was moderately uphill the whole way but the shoulder was wide and clear. I did end up walking my bike up the freshly graveled parking lot road since it was very loose. I made it back to my car by 4:15pm, loaded my bike into the car, changed my clothes, and started the drive home, done with my December grid!
