Hillsboro Peak via Black Range Crest Trail #79(edit)

Bill and Teresa Hiss hiked all the way to the top of Hillsboro Peak. We camped at the top of the Emory pass. It was a bit chilly for the 9 AM beginning, but warmed up very quickly to a balmy 80° in some locations as we hiked along the trail depending on what side of the mountain we were on. Near the top we experienced snow pack from the winter months. It was fun slipping and sliding and trying to make our way across the snow patches. At the top of Hillsboro Peak is an observation tower that is maintained by the forest service. There is also a A forest service residence and a rustic cabin at the top. A porta potty was also available for use. Even though I did use outhouse I had some reservations because of COVID-19 pandemic. At the beginning of the trail head it had been posted that all of the building structures were closed at the top of Hillsboro Peak in regard to the pandemic. The night before we did meet up with a couple of people who were hiking The continental divide Trail. They had committed to hiking Sawyer Peak the same day that we were to hike Hillsboro. We saw no people along the trail except for a gentlemen was on the trail as we headed back to the truck. The area had been burned horribly in 2013 and the entire area showed very little undergrowth recovery. The trail is a relatively easy walking trail with some gentle inclines and declines. The trail inclines much more rapidly near the end with several switchbacks in order to gain the peak. Along the way the trail provided lots of spectacular views in every direction.