For my first backpacking trip a friend of mine, Caroline, decided to take me to Inyo National Forest along the John Muir Trail, near the town of Big Pine. She goes backpacking often, so I knew I'd be in safe hands. The plan was to hike a 15-mile loop around seven lakes and camp overnight halfway through.

We met up with Cadie, Caroline's former co-worker, at the foot of the trail and so began the hike. Surprisingly, carrying 25lbs. of stuff was easy (I guess it's from carrying all that climbing gear to and from crags), and the uphills weren't too bad. The scenery was breathtaking, the air so clean, the sky incredibly blue. The color of the water was amazing. We camped at Fourth Lake. It was COLD AND WINDY--they assured me that not all backpacking trips are like this! Needless to say, after a dinner of freeze-dried mountain chili (another first!) I happily snuggled into my sleeping bag and fell asleep to the sound of leaves rustling in the wind.

Took some great pictures of Fourth Lake with the water as smooth as glass and reflecting the sky. We packed up and went to see Fifth and Sixth Lakes as well as Summit and Black Lakes. Lots of hiking! After a break we started heading down, and that's when I began having problems with my shoes. My hiking boots may be perfect for short hikes to and from crags but definitely not for 7-8 miles of downhill on uneven ground! I was in pain for about 4 miles... So in addition to all the great photos I now have a purple toenail for the next 6 months. An unintentional souvenir, but definitely worth it.

› The Seven Lakes slideshow