Mt. Charleston, Nevada

Mt. Charleston reaches 11,918ft starting from 7,500ft at the canyon trailhead. Canyon trail shaves a few miles but elevates the ascent from 7,500ft directly to 11,900ft. I hiked from the canyon trailhead to the summit and back in about 8 hours (~16 miles) including stops and a small mid-trail nap. Bring 3+ liters of water — there is a spring on the trail but I arrived at the car with only a quarter liter.

Past the junction: limestone exposed alongside the aftermath of a devastating forest fire from a few years ago. Switchbacks to ~10,200ft, then dwarfed trees and impressive scenery along the ridge to the Bristlecone Pine forest — fascinating! Trees over 1,000 years old, one believed to be 3,000 years old. Walking through an ancient living forest. Final approach to the summit with more switchbacks.

The summit had impressive views of Pahrump, Las Vegas, and small pieces of Death Valley. Spotted a storm brewing and heard thunder — made my way down before it rained. Not a place to get stuck in a storm. Met some great people on the trail. Winter mountaineering on this route would be fantastic.