"Wednesday July 17, 2013 was the most physically exertive day of hiking in my life, 14.6 miles, 8.6 of those with a backpack, 7 major and minor peaks and a daily elevation gain of 6485 feet. Although surprisingly it did not seem very difficult. The 2 day hike was 22.7 miles, 9 peaks and an elevation gain of 7586 feet. I spent almost the entire 2 days on beautiful ridgelines with expansive views in all directions. Because I was spending the 2 days high above streams, I had to carry all the water that I needed. I cleared out many of my ultralight luxury items and carried about third of my backpack weight in water. My pack weighed 33 pounds and 11.25 pounds was water; 180 ounces or 1.4 gallons. There was enough water, but I still could have used more. It was a crisp 45 degrees when I started hiking at 7:45 AM. I had a 3 hour drive to get to the Galivan trail head just before the Taos, New Mexico ski area. The starting elevation was 8893 feet. I did not have anyone else that could go with me so I went by myself. I left my dog at home thinking this hike might be a little too much for her. As I started the hike I saw a mother deer with 2 of the smallest baby deer that I can remember. T..." — Phil-Robinson • Jul 17, 2013