Cougar Ridge to Jack Creek Meadow Trail

I had a holiday party later tonight. And what do I decide to do? Go on a longest hike I've been in a while, of course! Cougar Ridge to Jack Creek Meadow trail was one of those 15 mile trails that you think to yourself you would hike just partially and at some point just turn around and go back... That did happen, indeed, but a bit farther along than I would hope.

It started out slowly gaining elevation and continued at the same pace, up and down, throughout the hike. Stanley Peak was ultimately the turn around point, as I knew there was no way I was making it to that party if I continued...

I found the hike rather isolated with only a few people nearby. The weather was cloudy and misty, and only at one point during the hike did I see the sun peaking through the clouds. It made the trail somewhat mysterious and suspiciously remote.

A nice pond (or I call it a pond) was located along the trail, and it was a perfect spot to relax and take a break. For whatever reason, I can't find a picture of it, but trust me, it was worth sitting next to.

Stanley Peak did not seem like a destination point initially, but as I ascended the mountain, the views really opened up.

On this gloomy day, I could not imagine a better place to enjoy the view of the valley (although I have to admit, I was pretty frustrated with initial fog).

The distance I covered ended up to be 13.5 miles, but I was exhausted somehow. Knowing that I had to go to a work event and pretend to be fresh and cheery felt like a burden, so after a nice cup of late afternoon coffee and half an hour in front of the mirror, I was ready to be that person :)