We woke with the light, and had to say goodbye to Jack, who was headed back to Base Camp for his day off. Our hike to French Henry staff camp followed the creek. We crossed the creek many times as we followed the muddy path up the canyon wall. After a few miles, we came to the camp, which is on the site of a former gold mine. The staff explained the history of mining in the area, and then the scouts got to try their hands at gold panning in the stream. The most interesting finds were shiny flakes of mica and green malachite.
After our break, we started a tough climb up to Baldy Town (elv. 9825ft). The climb was steep, and as the elevation increased, we struggled to catch our breath. Tempers flared as the scouts struggled to stay togther.
Arriving in Baldy Town, we found our campsite was nestled in a stunning grove of aspens. Our hiking for the day covered 6 miles. Although afternoon rain and hail kept us pinned under cover for a bit, when it cleared, sun filtered down through the rustling aspen leaves.
After hanging bear bags and eating dinner, we got to bed early, knowing that we had to rise early for our hike up Mt. Baldy the next day. Overnight, we awakened to a long thunderstorm, with lightning, hail, and rain pounding the campsite for what seemed like forever.
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