Big bend national park 4: Emory peak - TX, USA (2014, 12, 26)

There are three hiking trails that we could try in a day or half a day: Emory peak trail that can reach the highest point of the national park, Window trail that ends up at the "Window" and Lost mine trail. My first thought was to hike Lost mine trail, because it seemed not difficult (actually it was labeled as "moderate" in national park guide brochure and in fact, it was) and the most famous. However, I wanted to figure out the limit of my physical ability on the first day. Also, I thought that, if I could complete the toughest one, the rest of trails would not be any problem in following days. Thus, we picked Emory peak trail and headed to the top of the mountains. The trail started at the lodge very mildly enough to enjoy the great and spectacular views of surrounding peaks with cozy breathing. 10am was perfect time to begin hiking because of fresh and cool air with colored views by morning sun.

One step further made me one step higher. At some points, I just realized I looked down the lodge far away. Instead, at the same shoulder height, the peaks that I looked up an hour ago, greeted us. I did not hesitate to take a picture, especially with my new wide angle lens, and was very satisfied with it. No clouds in the sky gave me illusion of sky expanding without any limitation.  

After 2 hour-hike, we had a short break having some water. Water, very important in this park. I strongly advise if you have a plan to hike this park, any trail, to prepare some bottles of water. We had a great plan having lunch at the top of the peak, so ordered lunch boxes in the restaurant of the lodges. Luckily in the boxes, there were one bottle of water and an orange, (not so good though). After a short break at the junction between emory peak and south rim, we headed to Emory peak with spectacular views of rocky mountains exposing themselves thoroughly and arid desert far away. Shrubs were spotted everywhere to swag their "life"s. It was very impressive and I could feel their energy.  

Finally, top of the park. Just below the top of the peak, we met an extremely rocky, so dangerous part of trail but we could make it. Unforgettable panoramic views that 3 hours intensive hiking gave us.