We don’t need no stinkin badges! ~The Treasure of the Sierra Madre September 3, 2025 — You know you’re hiking with a professional when he chooses the ultimate weather day to finish his 100th round of 46 high peaks: bright skies, cool temps with the possibility of light rain showers. I’m concerned to see only one hiker among a lot full of empty vehicles when I arrive at the Atmospheric Sciences Research Center trailhead. Am I late? “The crew just left,” Gridder, Jay Brooks, #11245W announces. Hikers are strategically advancing up the mountain in small groups so as not to overcrowd the trail, he informs me. While we pack up last-minute keepsakes that will be added to the three-ring binder that Donna Merrill, #10361WV compiled and will present to Gary on top, a white pickup truck pulls in and Tony Goodwin, #211 hops out. When Nancie Battaglia, #3543 arrives, I sprint back to the car and off-load my 35 mm camera. No need for that now! The first leg up Marble Mountain is invigorating and unrelenting with lively conversation while gaining 800 vertical feet over 0.8 miles. One mile later, we converge with some groups near the top of Marble Mountain. Gary is munching on a granola bar and surrounded by friends: Suzanne Lance, George Sloan, Brian Hoody, Barbara Place, The Tupper Lake Boys — Ben 10 (Tennyson), Gerry Gnann and Nathan Shaheen. Dave Gomlak and others are returning from Esther. We down liquids and share snacks. Sherry Roulston #12512 Glossary: CHUMPS - Cadyville Hiking and Ultimate Mountaineering Pedestrian Sect CLO - Canine Liberation Organization Grid - Climbing all 46 High Peaks in each month of the year. 552 (46 X 12) high peaks! SCUMBAGS - Senior Citizens Underhanded Mountain Baggers and Adirondack Geriatrics Society (AKA – Sunday Hiking Group) Snack break near Esther junction - Photo Credit Nancie Battaglia 100 ROUNDS OF THE 46 HIGH PEAKS Gary Koch #1137WV & 100 Rounds WINTER 2025 | 15
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