Greetings from beautiful Warner Springs in southern California. For anyone who ever thought there arent big mountains in southern Cali, Ive learned this is far from true. So far Ive had a 4,000 foot climb in a single day as well as an incredibly exposed and rocky 3,000 foot climb that I decided to do in the evening to avoid the heat. The path was bairly a foot wide and washed out in places on such a steep slope that anything lost over the side to the wind would surely never be recovered. There are peaks over 10,000 feet in the distance and awesome, ruggid mountains all around us. This is certainly no boring desert.
The heat has been a challange but most of us have adopted the "Ciesta" style of hiking which has been quite a treat. The day starts before first light with the moon revealing the surrounding landscape, hiking begins with a headlamp and continues through dawn until the sun gets too high. Hopefully around that time we are nearby to a reasonable amount of shade to hide in through the heat of the day, and if we're lucky even a water source. We nap, read, play cards, write in our journals, and even cook dinner. Once the heat breaks (anywhere from 3-6) we head out to hike into the night. Night hiking is incredible. Lots of creatures are out like crickets chirping, geckos catching bugs, coyotes yipping on a nearby ridge. Before the moon comes out the stars are at their best in the dry desert air and the horizon is all I can make out of my surroundings other than my little 10 foot circle of light. Sometimes I'll glimps the light of another hiker on the trail far ahead. Once the moon rises the ridges and craigs come to life. And the whole time it is a lovely 65 degrees. That is until the sun comes up again =-)
Peace and Love
~BEADS
Greetings from beautiful Warner Springs in southern California. For anyone who ever thought there arent big mountains in southern Cali, Ive learned this is far from true. So far Ive had a 4,000 foot climb in a single day as well as an incredibly exposed and rocky 3,000 foot climb that I decided to do in the evening to avoid the heat. The path was bairly a foot wide and washed out in places on such a steep slope that anything lost over the side to the wind would surely never be recovered. There are peaks over 10,000 feet in the distance and awesome, ruggid mountains all around us. This is certainly no boring desert.
Wow, The beautiful scenery is a real treat. The high desert is gorgeous. You look like you're having a blast. Miss and love you lots. Can't wait to see more.
ReplyDeleteCindy
Beautiful!! What an adventure! Did you get the stickers out? Joe says he has a sharp edged piece of steel he'll ship to your next check point if you want, LOL!! He'll include some tweezers!!
ReplyDeleteBe safe! Love oand hugs from me and Tattoo!!
Wow Laura, what a gorgeous area! Night hiking sounds magical and makes a lot of sense! I'm glad there are other hikers nearby. Congratulations on your first 100 miles :O)
ReplyDeleteTeresa
Laura, your hikes are always such an awesome experience to track! I truly wish I could join you on one of these hikes someday, but for now I will have to live vicariously through your adventures. I wish you God's speed and fair winds. Don't get too close to the edge on that narrow path, we cannot afford to lose you to the wind! :D Be safe, stay sane, and thanks for making me a part of the hike (you know what I'm talking about, Beads! :D).
ReplyDeleteKevin
Laura, you are up on the Website and Teresa has sent instructions so all us oldies can figure out how to send comments. We love what your are doing and love the updates, pictures are wonderful. Be safe out there and enjoy. A once in a life time adventure. The dogs send their love.
ReplyDeletePat
Enjoy those beautiful desert blooms and stay cool out there!
ReplyDeleteBecca
Take your time and remember to smell the flowers on the way. Enjoy this great adventure.
ReplyDeleteCheers,
Dustin