The Hermit was an educated nobleman named Juan de Agostini who lived in a cave near the summit in the mid-1860s, possibly in a self-imposed penance for some indiscretions back in Italy. He traded carved crosses for food and the locals - who were big fans - would hike to the top to receive blessings and healings. Visits by religious folks still continue
The Hermit
It is less than an hour drive to Las Vegas and then 15 curvy miles before the tiny mountain towns of Gallinas and El Porvenir
Hermit's Peak
The trail was very rocky - should have worn harder soles
The massive summit at 10,212' with some steep drop-offs that I kept my distance from
Looked for the cave awhile and finally found a trail to it - less a cave than a shelter
Earlier in the week we had gone up to the Jemez mountains for a long run
Hud had a good week hanging out with 3 chicks
