ROAD TO MT. UTSUGI -Fly on the wall-
Unlike the more popular and lively Mt. Kisokoma area, the route to Mt. Utsugi offers a quieter, more rugged atmosphere. These photographs document a two-day, one-night backpacking trip through the sparsely traveled mountains of early autumn.
Central Alps: Mount Utsugi, 2,864m (Nagano Prefecture)
Carrying overnight gear, the route follows an endless ridgeline, crossing one peak after another. The landscape shifts with every ascent and descent. Looking back, the ridgeline stretches far into the distance, tracing the path across the mountains.
The first day’s route ran from Senjojiki to Hinokio Hut. The changing scenery along the ridgeline was remarkable. Originally built as an emergency shelter, Hinokio Hut was renovated four years ago, with a campsite added alongside it.
Mt. Utsugi, rising in the distance along the ridgeline.
The campsite at Hinokio Hut, with space for around 20 tents.
For this trip, the new BANANE SLEEVE was worn as a base layer, paired with the ACTIVIST SLACKS. During the colder mornings and evenings, the VISOR HOODIE -SWC- and ACTIVIST SLACKS -SWC-, both scheduled for release this winter, were layered over the base outfit. These are signature softshell pieces that have been refined through successive updates.
The second day began early, with the aim of descending before sunset. Reaching Mt. Utsugi required crossing four more peaks, making for a demanding route.
Rather than offering long stretches of gentle ridgeline walking, the trail is characterized by relentless ups and downs, with plenty of rocky sections and chains to negotiate. It is a varied and challenging traverse. Scrambling over rocks with a fully loaded backpack is demanding, as always.
After breakfast on Mt. Kumazawa, the journey continued toward Kiso-dono Hut. From there, only the steep ascent to the summit of Mt. Utsugi remained.
Leaving Kiso-dono Hut after a brief rest.
The ACTIVIST SLACKS -SWC-, with the ACTIVIST SLACKS peeking out underneath.
But reaching the summit was far from the end of the challenge. The descent was exceptionally long. Maintaining focus, each step was taken carefully, paying close attention to the terrain underfoot.
It was a tightly packed itinerary, leaving little room for idle time, but an immensely rewarding two days. Physically demanding as it was, perhaps this is what makes a long mountain traverse so rewarding.
STARRING: HIROKI OKAMOTO
