July 26 -Last hike -

July 26th-
Today is where this whole experience will come to an end.  Before this happens though, we still have a long day of hiking ahead of us.  To be more precise, we need to hike up 1500 vertical meters.  That's a long and difficult day!  We climbed up to Brévent and back down to PlanPraz to complete the circuit - 170km.  It took us about 7 hours -to complete the 1500 vertical meters.  After going up, we had to hike down about 500m (vertical meters).  A much faster feat!

Some details...

Highest peak is where we are headed.

The hike started early in the morning in the woods - it was a nice way to start the day.  Don't get me wrong, it was challenging -but at least it was mostly shaded which helps.  Emily -our support crew at camp -is the one that led us today.  She's studying to be a European Alpine Guide, and so under the guidance of John, she was at the front of the line.

After walking for quite some time, the shaded area ended and we ended up in a clearing.  From then on, the terrain changed.  No more trees and roots.  It became more difficult with some exposed areas -not my favourite - but I did them ALL BY MYSELF this time!  Only a few encouraging words from Emily!  After these difficult parts, rocks, more rocks.

Just before lunch, there were some steeper sections, but nothing like le Col du Tricot!  Phew! What a relief!  After lunch, the terrain was even rockier -this time, large rocks - gorgeous and fun terrain.  As fun as it is, you can't wait to be done because it's so hot, and going up takes a toll on your body. 

When we finally reached the top - Brévent, John and Emily had a nice surprise for us... champagne!  What a thoughtful thing for them to do (supposedly they don't do this for every group they have)!  We had a drink, high fives all around, some tears, took some pictures and then the fun had to end as another storm was on its way, hence why we had to leave earlier again this morning.  Most of the group went down from Brévent in the cable car.  Only Rémi, Derek, Kevin, myself and the guides walked down to PlanPraz to complete the circle and end up where we started. 

How exciting!  We finished!  In one piece! 10 days of serious hiking.  Up and down mountains, aching feet, cut toes, blisters, bummed knees, fatigue, tents, extreme heat, every emotion possible, beautiful views, an all encompassing experience.  I don't know about the other hikers... for me, I know this will remain in my memories for a very long time!

We met the rest of the group in Chamonix for a celebratory drink and it then was time to make our way back to camp.  Tomorrow, we have one last free day in this beautiful region.  7 of us have plans to do hydro speed down the river.  We shall see how that will turn out!