Distance
9.0 mi to summit
14.5 mi total
Elevation
1,980 ft start
3,604 ft max
Vertical
3,237 ft gain
Time
3 hr 23 min to summit
5 hr 23 min total
It was a windy and snowy day in which to tackle a Belleayre, Balsam, and Eagle "Loop" from Rider Hollow. First I hiked over to the summit of Belleayre, acting like I belonged as several skiers gave curiously looks. Then to Balsam, where it seemed everyone and their uncle was out snagging the required winter 35 while the snowpack is low, and finally I battled several snow squalls over to a desolate Eagle, enjoying the solitude along the way.