Hike to Shira Ridge Camp, altitude 11,500 ft. Projected hiking time was 7 to 8 hours; I hiked for 7. During this portion of the hike, we left the rainforest and entered the heather zone. In all, we would pass through five vegetation zones.

Every afternoon we had tea and popcorn in the mess tent. You couldn’t start the meal without sanitizing your hands. I was impressed by how vigilant they were about keeping everything sanitary..