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| - I have been climbing redrock canyon for more than a decade but I haven't tried this trail. I always pass by here but I have no idea how this hike is. We got there past 8am and started to navigate the trail while stopping in each and every beautiful flowers we saw to take pictures. We end up climbing a big rock on the left side to take pictures and while doing it we heard a rattle sound! I got scared! For the longest time I hike in redrock, that was the very first time I heard a rattle snake! Like everywhere else when you're in a National Park you need to be careful and be mindful at all times. We left that site immediately and proceeded to the turtlehead peak. It was a slow ascent during the first 20 minutes. We were enjoying the cold breeze and the warmth of the sun. We stopped in the first midsize rock on the middle of the path. We can see the turtlehead peak on the right, the sky was blue and the chemical rays are quite fabulous!
In the meantime we didn't really know the end part of the hike as we have no map. We are basically just following the people hiking before us. After a few minutes, oh boy the trail was getting harder and harder. It became a vertical hike. The trail is quite rocky and loose. Some part are full of gravel. It's quite dangerous. We tried to look for another way where more stable rocks to climb on but we ended up in a steep spots. Stay on the trail, do not look for short cuts as there are none. You will end up in a more dangerous spots. Stop and rest, drink water and don't rush. Always take your time and phase.
We finally arrived on the top big rock at the last curve heading to the peak. We sat behind that rock to rest and few steps away is a beautiful view of the Canyon. From there is another 20 minutes to the peak depending on your phase. It took us at least a couple of hours to the top. The view is amazing. If you will do this hike, come prepared and never give up. If your halfway, might as well finish it. It's well worth it.
After the scenic view, the cool breeze and the warmth of the sun, going down is another thing. It is quite grueling and uncomfortable. I got blisters on my feet. Going downhill requires a great balance and control. While it was a steep incline going up, what can you expect going downhill! Make sure your hiking shoes is your best hiking shoes. It took as an hour to go down. It was a fun and challenging hike. If you love to hike and haven't tried this trail, I highly recommend but remember to come prepared, bring enough water and some snacks. Wear sunblock. Rest when you need to. This is not for older people who are frail and not fit. For an experienced hiker this is moderate but for others it is quite a strenuous hike.
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