About two months ago I decided wanted to plan a day hike. I missed hiking, trees, fresh mountain air, pushing myself and I really wanted some of my mama friends to join me.
After realizing I would need a few weeks to get in hiking shape I conveniently discovered that June 2nd, 2012 was National Trails Day.
I asked a number of my mama friends if they wanted to join me and hike up Mt. San Antonio (Mt. Baldy) on the bowl trail. My friends were quite enthusiastic about this idea and we started planning our adventure.
Very few of my friends had ever been to 10,000 ft or hiked such a steep trail. They were up for the challenge but I wanted to make it as comfortable and enjoyable as I could for them.
A few of us did a pre-hike a couple of weeks ago. I am so glad we took the time to hike part of the trail before the actual day of the hike. My friends were more ready for the experience and I know it helped me mentally on the day of our hike to the top too.
We started on the trail a little after 7:30 am. Too many to count eager hikers packed the trail.
This is not how I prefer to hike. I enjoy seeing a few people while on the trail but I don’t like to feel like I am marching up an anthill with hundreds of other fellow ants.
There wasn’t anything we could do about this and my friends didn’t seem to notice the parade we were in. So, I pushed my thoughts away from what was wrong with the moment and found the beauty in the view, the company and the experience.
This is a new way of thinking for me, it isn’t the first place my thoughts go…I was really happy with how the day felt because of this shift.
The crowded trail did thin out after we stopped for a snack break at the Sierra Hut a few miles into the trail.
Our hike was pleasant, meaningful and filled with reflective conversations when we weren’t preoccupied with our breath. It was also challenging and something I hope to do again very soon.
Here are some pictures from the trail.
snack break at the Sierra Hut (about 1/2 way from the top)
A chipmunk eating a snack of his own.
view of the Sierra Hut and surroundings.
On our way UP.
The bluest sky and a beautiful tree on the trail.
Almost there!!
So proud to hike with these great Mamas.
On our way down.
a striking wildflower and yucca combination.
Honestly, I would not have had an idea there was a National Trails Day if it weren’t for my PCTA (Pacific Crest Trail Association) membership and yearly calendar (I look forward to every year–great pictures) that comes with the membership. It is a 20-year-old event that I had never really heard of. Hopefully next year my family can take part in one of the National Trails Day events. Trails are where I find peace, it only seems fitting to honor our local trails at least one day during the year.
Did you know it was National Trail Day this past Saturday? If so, what trail did you enjoy? Even if you didn’t hike on Saturday, what is your favorite trail near or far?
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I totally need to find some hiking mama friends of my own! Love this idea.
Yes! It was so great. My mama friends were willing but with little experience. I am so happy I was able to show them a place and hike that I love. I am so proud of them!
It was a beautiful way to spend the day. I highly recommend it.
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