Howdy all
A big thanks to Walt and Karin for allowing me to achieve my three year dream of doing this hike.
I couldn't have had better company. On the way up Vivian, Walt kept us entertained with tales of his travels and experiences while serving as a Marine overseas. Whenever we met hikers coming down, Walt asked them if there was really a Waffle House and pub at the top of San G
When we reached the lookout above High Creek (about 10K ft), I pointed across to the 10,000 Foot Ridge that Z-dude has climbed. Warning: there's no trail up that ridge
Walt summed up my thoughts perfectly when he said something like "I don't think so."
When we hit the area I call the "traverse" (about 10,500 ft) Walt and Karin both had a few choice observations
The summit was gorgeous. Karin noted that San J looks closer from the top of San G than San G looks from the top of San J. I agreed but maybe it was the added hypoxia from the additional 700 ft of elevation
From the summit we descended 1.5 K ft to Dollar saddle. The ridge trail provides outstanding views of Big Bear Lake and vicinity as well as Mill creek and Forrest Falls. We had our permit checked by ranger Sarah and proceeded to climb out of Dollar Saddle to take in more breath-taking sights. It was surprising how much my legs didn't want to go uphill after going downhill
This was also the warmest part of the hike.
Walt kept wisely checking his GPS to make sure that I wasn't leading us astray. He could also tell when we were getting close to intersections with other trails -- very cool technology. The only downside was when we had 9+ miles left on the trail to our cars and he informed us the GPS indicated 4.5 miles (as the crow flies).
We signed in as The Three Amigos at West SB peak and started the final 8 mile descent into Angeles Oaks. We took a brief stop at the stone bench overlooking Mill creek -- I've always loved this spot. The continued camaraderie and conversation on the hike down took my mind off the usual aches and pains.
By the time we reached the cars, I couldn't believe we had been out for 13 hours. Thanks to the companionship and scenery, the time flew by. The beer and food at El Mexican tasted like ambrosia.
All in all, the perfect day. Better yet, Walt and Karin are still taling to me
Miles of smiles,
Ellen