Sally, Perry A and I hiked up Deer Springs to the summit and down Devil's Slide yesterday after arranging a car shuttle. The weather was perfect -- not too hot or cold.
The largest group of folks we saw were PCT workers. There was lots of new (and old) mule dung on Deer Springs
As we started to enter Little Round Valley, we found logs blocking the trail. The first ones weren't that large -- I thought perhaps that this was caused by water from thundershowers cascading down the trail.
Unfortunately, it soon became apparent that the obstructions blocking the trail were man-made (or should I say A$$ made)
Even the logs/branches from the side of the trail had been moved into the trail. The three of us were able to move the obstructions back off to the side of the trail, though some work needs to be done to arrange them the proper way. As a reward, we saw a beautiful deer in the meadow.
Fortunately, no one had messed with the tail as it climbs out of LRV. We heard voices as we arrived at the summit and met a group of Hungarian hikers. We were in and out of clouds and mist the entire time -- it was beautiful and peaceful.
On the way down, I was pleasantly surprised to meet Steve Fossett and Steve coming up. Made introductions and had a nice chat with them and the Hungarians before continuing down. I was still pumped up from seeing my San Diego friends and wasn't paying attention -- tripped and then fell onto a big rock which hit me right in the middle of my right thigh. Ouch -- that one hurt
Felt like someone had nailed me in the quad with a fast ball for the remainder of the hike. At least I didn't peel off any skin.
Having appeased the San Jacinto gods, we resumed our descent. The clouds got darker and we felt a few rain drops, but the skies never opened up. Made it down without further incident and had a great meal at the Mexican food restaurant across from the Ranger Station -- I'm going into Las Casuelas withdrawals
Miles of smiles,
Ellen
