After the rain, the mountain trail became incredibly slippery, especially on sections littered with loose rocks. Each step required careful consideration; a single lapse in focus could easily result in a tumble. As I passed through a serene pine forest, the soft, red earth felt almost alive beneath my feet, as though it pulsed with the heartbeat of the earth itself. Thanks to an enthusiastic birdwatcher, I caught sight of a stunningly vibrant red bird flitting among the branches.
The final kilometer pushed my muscles to their absolute limits, leaving me breathless but determined. In the future, I plan to incorporate more aerobic exercises into my routine and gradually increase the distances I walk, preparing myself for even greater challenges. This hike took place at Quebrada la Vieja, following a route that first ascends to Claro de Luna before reaching Mirador de la Virgen.
At an elevation of around 3,000 meters, every step upward made my heart race faster, reminding me of the breathtaking power of nature at such heights.
