7/1/15 Another trip to one of my favorite SoCal spots, the Gabrielino and Rim Trails on Mt. Wilson. This time as a hike with my Dad for over 21 miles and roughly 4,500' of gain.
1 Early July in a record dry year means Sturtevant Falls is almost dry. But the 80ft moss stripe is still pretty cool.
2 Dad's picture of me as we head-up the trail from the falls.
3 I almost stepped on the rock right next to this guy's head. I couldn't see the rest of his body from the angle I approached, so I'm glad I saw him just in time.
4 One of my favorite areas of the trail.
5 Made it to Camp Sturtevant, a historic spot along the trail.
6 I don't get a chance to get a picture of a still butterfly all too often. On a slightly negative critter note, we had gnat swarms most of the way, and I somehow managed to get six wasp stings. Not fun.
7 Still some Spring color along the trail.
8 Made it to Newcomb Pass and the junction with the Rim Trail. In my opinion, one of the best, practically unused, trails in all of SoCal.
9 Heading out on the Rim Trail.
10 Hmm, where are we?
11 I always love the unusual trees.
12 More color along the trail.
13 Getting up to some great views of the San Gabriels from just below the summit.
14 A look South over the ridge to the city far below.
15 Some awesome single track along the way. It gets pretty narrow and washed out in places. Just the way I like it!
16 Almost to the summit. This is one of my favorite views in the area. You can see all the way to Baldy, Gorgonio, and San Jacinto on a clear day.
17 Made it to the top and the 100" telescope dome. You get an educational bonus when you summit Mt. Wilson!
18 I had never been to the observation deck in the 100" dome before, but we went in this time. Fascinating stuff.
19 Dad reading the displays in one of the visitor centers.
20 Starting the long trip back down. We made it to the trailhead right on schedule to end another great day in the San Gabriels.