West Defiance - Putrid Pete's Peak

In search of accessible, 3,000-foot-plus hikes, P3 beckoned. Its numbers (mileage and elevation gain) make it seem tame; but it’s anything but tame. And the farther up you go, the more serious it becomes.

As my wife and I ascended, hikers seemed to turn back left and right. It’s a steep hike, but it becomes dangerously steep in its upper reaches. In quite a few spots, if you slip and couldn’t catch yourself within a few feet, you would be in some serious trouble.

I tried to not think about that, though, as I scrambled up the mountain, grunting, huffing and puffing.

I’ve been on many exposed Class 3 and 4 climbs (unroped on solid rock), but this one provided the added element of slippery dirt and loose rocks. I was actually on all fours for great stretches of this climb. And I deemed it rather sketchy in a few spots.

The vegetation actually came in handy. For the first time ever, I clutched grass tufts for added security, so take that for what it's worth.

Toward the top, the scrambling was much more enjoyable. And the last stretch up the summit block was lots of fun. I wish it lasted longer.

Enjoyed some awesome views up top, as it was a bluebird day.

Getting down the steep sections took almost as long as getting up them.

As you descend, don’t be lured into taking the parallel spur ridge to the left. I didn’t notice it on the way up, but as we descended (and didn’t see anyone coming up or going down at the time), I second guessed myself for a minute and had to consult my map and gps to confirm we were on track.

We spent 2.5 hours getting up and 2 hours getting back down. Great physical and mental workout.