After all the shutes and ladders I finally arrived on the first summit of Calloway. Since I wanted to be sure I had ascended the highest point I went over to the second summit but was delayed by some owner's pets. Their dogs did not want me on top with them. But finally their owners tugged and pulled them away with no apologies notwithstanding.
This was the last summit of the day along the Grandfather Trail before heading back to the car at the Black Rock trailhead. Great view and incredible hike. Even though this peak is the highest on Grandfather Mountain it was, to me, overshadowed by the rockier McRae Peak and Window Attic Peak. I wish there weren't any ladders.
Camped at Profile site (5000'), snow, temp -5 with -25 wind chill at 8 am. At summit at 1 pm, a balmy 10 with wind chill only -18 but beautiful sunny day!! This may be the coldest conditions I have ever camped.
A nice yet hazy day. Took the Grandfather Trail the length of the summit ridge from the Swinging Bridge parking lot to Calloway. Got a chance to test out my new poles...a knee saver!