Echo to Hillgard fastpack by Brian Story

Celebrating a fine day near the summit of Dutchman.

Leah and I were able to get out together for a weekend in the high peaks of the Southern Madison range.  By going light, we were able to summit Echo, Dutchman, and Hilgard peaks with overnight packs without too much slogging.  After a casual late morning start, the first day went smoothly.  We easily walked up to Expedition basin, climbed Hilgard and Dutchman, and dropped to a high camp above Dutchman lake.  I over estimated how long the trip would take, and we had extra time to relax and enjoy the evening.  By bringing a few exciting dinner foods and enough warm clothes, we also slept in relative comfort.  The next day we easily summited Hilgard and made the standard egress out the Avalanche creek trail.  The only hiccup of the trip came when Leah unexpectedly sliced her leg on a sharp rock, but we were able to close the wound with a series of band aids and tape, and it didn't derail the trip.  I had a great time.  It was pretty magical to spend a few days in such a beautiful place with such a special person.

Crossing Expedition basin.  Photo: Leah

Leah climbing Echo.

Nice plateau walking on the South side of Echo.

Starting the climb up Dutchman.

Sunset at camp.

Leah enjoying a frosty morning.

Traversing the Lake Eglise basin with Hilgard behind.

Last climb out of the Lake Eglise basin.

Thoughts I think fastpacking an underrated way to explore the mountains.  It is an efficient way to spend a lot of time up high, and the few trips I have done feel like a magical respite from reality.  I have been a little turned off by the gear requirements to get into ultra light backpacking, but it has worked well to just kind of leave everything unnecessary at home.  Will try to keep doing a fastpack trip or two a year.