So my journey continued climbing higher up the rock strewn southern face of San Gorgonio Mountain, above 9,000 feet. I was feeling relatively isolated up here at times, but being Memorial Day weekend, the mountain was fairly crowded.
The scenery really starts to change the higher you go, and in the distance I could see a snow covered peak, which my guess was Mount Baldy.
There were trees growing between huge boulders. Two women trail running passed me by, one with purple hair, both in hydration vests and shorts. This was around 9am, and they mentioned starting at 3:30 am from South Fork. Here I was still in long sleeves, and warm clothing. It gave me something to strive for. One day I will do San Gorgonio in a day too. But for now, I need to get there the first time.
The trail had tons of rocks at this point, my ankles were not that happy, as my ankle was constantly being jolted sideways, when I stepped on a roll, and it rolled.
Looking out towards the desert in palm springs, I’m between worlds. It’s a hot sweltering summer day in the valley. It’s breezy and in the 50’s up here.
I took a break, and threw on more chapstick. High altitude and wind, can do a number on your lips quick.
There were tons of humongous tree roots, I had to take my time, stepping over. Tripping would have meant face planting on a rock, and I preferred that not to happen today.
I was sure to stop, and take a moment here and there. It’s the journey, not the destination.
Skeletons of trees adorned the eastern ridge. They were victims of this mountains harsh environment. I hoped I would not be. The greener ones have likely tapped into an underground spring. Water is very scarce at this altitude. You must carry much more than you think you might need.
I found an alpine Christmas tree.
I imagined this Limber Pine tree was over 500 years old.
Call me a “treehugger,” because I am. I just love trees, and learning about dendrology, the study of trees. I am most fascinated by the pines that grow at high altitude in places like this, and in the White Mountains.
You get an amazing overview of the power of wildfire off in the distance, from this vantage point. But the forest seems to regenerate time and time again.
A little pine, hangs on for dear life, clinging to a rock.
I found myself up ahead of my group for most of this second day hiking. But that was ok, because I enjoy hiking by myself. I enjoy the quiet, and listening to the sounds of nature. The dog hiking along with us, had his own schedule too.
The tree’s at high altitude are somewhat statuesque. They can live for thousands of years, and look completely dead, even when they are still very much alive.
As the sun began to beat down, as I reached 10,000 feet, the climb became a bit more challenging. The sun had started to suck away a bit of my energy.
I found it was time to strip down from three layers, to just my tank top, and sun hoodie. I was wearing all synthetic because it breathes. Cotton is a no go for me. Sweat is the enemy. It can lead to hypothermia when it’s cold, if your jacket is not ventilated. If you’re not wearing quick dry clothes in heat, you might just be soaked.
More happy trees.
This is where it got interesting. There was a spot where the trail had basically disappeared, and clinging to a tree root was the only way to make it across a huge gap in the trail.
I had realized I forgot my electrolytes in my bear bag hanging back at camp. You’re not required to hang your food here, but I did. I have heard they are in the area, mostly near Vivian Creek.
This doberman was excited for a snowcone.
I took a few rest breaks, waiting for my group to catch up.
There were ample boulders around, so it was never a problem. There was still some trees at this point, and shade. Though that would soon change as I climbed higher.
There was one last big switchback, a series of short ones, and then the final half mile stretch to the summit.
The views seemed to go on forever.
Some trees reminded me of candlesticks.
I spotted San Bernardino Peak, Shields Peak, Anderson, and East San Bernardino Peak.
Mount San Jacinto was off in the distance, and in the foreground, was possibly Galena Peak and Little San Gorgonio Peaks.
The final stretch, to the peak.
Yes, I made it! This is what happiness looks like.
Mt San Gorgonio 11,503 feet!
I took a much needed rest break for about 20 minutes, refueling with a Probar, some skinny pop popcorn, a package of olives, and a fruit bar, along with more water. Still no electrolytes, but at least I had fruit.
Dedication
I dedicate this hike to my Dad who passed away too soon from heart disease, and to my great grandmother who actually lost her legs in the days when women sat around a lot, to raynaud’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder.
I like to think I am not condemned to “genetic” diseases. That’s why I just do it while I can. I try to get out there, and experience this beautiful world today, because we never know what tomorrow will bring.
Now it would only be 12.5 more miles back to the car, after the detour to Dry Lake to pack up the tents.
We stopped at the spring again on the way back, for a short break to soak our feet in the ice water. It’s a hiker tradition after all.
There was a little waterfall happening, and it was a well deserved break. I had logged 22.5 miles on alltrails so far, and had about 4 more to go.
Hiking long trails like this, you’re moving and covering a lot of ground. Sometimes the best moments are when you’re standing still, noticing all the beauty. It’s good to stop every now and then, and realize why you are there.
It’s sometimes the small minute details that we can miss, when we are rushing here and there. I love hiking, and being outside, because you get a chance to slow down.
Everyday on the trail is a much deserved mental health break. I am a believer in the mind body spirit connection. We need to take care of our mental health, just as much as our physical selves.
I hope you get outside today too, and hike somewhere that makes you happy.
About me
I’m Serafina! I’m a writer and California girl who loves to go exploring. Hope you will get outside today, breathe some fresh air, and be happy!
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Disclaimer: The work on this blog is my opinion and my opinion alone and I am not responsible for the outcome if someone were to apply these thoughts to their own life. All text and photography copyright 2021 by Serafina, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers’ usage of the ideas and opinions presented in the blog, are at their own risk. Be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, surfing, walking, cooking, and other activities, which may take place indoors or outdoors. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from reading the blog, or partaking in any activity mentioned in the blog. Read the blog, and use its ideas, if you so desire, at your own risk.
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