A Slog up the highest Pk in Southern California

On Sat 14th June on what was a very warm day in Redlands (40 odd degrees) we arose at 4.30 in the morning to be driving by a little after 5. We were off to climb the highest peak in Southern California. San Gorgonio is the name and the Trailhead is just 40 odd mins from where I live. It is 11,499 feet (3,505 m) high and was the highest I have ever been by about 1400ft (I think). The route we did of course it is not the easiest and has over 7000ft gain (2200+ odd meters) and we took a longer route back so did 28 miles all up in a 10hr mission. Part of the reason for leaving that early other than for time constraints is to beat the hot temps before we got to the summit.

Anyway the fellows on the expedition were Derek, Myles, Mike (another guy from work) and surprising Dave Bones. Have not seen him in years and he has just recently moved to Orange County so thought what better way is there than two former CUTC (Canterbury University Tramping Club) Committee members to catch up. We might as well slog up the side of a big ugly granite mountain. Well hey at least it got us above the smog right…!!!

What was quite interesting is that we had 3 kiwis and two Americans climbing an American Peak. Figure that one out aye...



Anyway as you can see from the Pics its very different than the mountain back home. It really is odd to me that you can be on the top of a 3500m peak and not far below are large trees. Not to mention the Chipmunks trying too steal our food. I held up pretty well though. I think we all had stiff muscles a couple of days later. Well I know I did. The main issues I had was my big toes. They are quite bruised so I am hoping the nails will not just fall off.

Anyhow this climb has got me keen to do some more. In Sept all going well we plan on climbing the Mountaineers Route up Mt Whitney (The largest Pk in the US outside of Alaska) as well as the large local 'Cactus to the Clouds' climb up San Jacinto. A huge 3000m+ ascent in a day.

The day after the climb I headed round to Al's place for a pool party celebrating 3 birthdays. It was 40 odd degrees again and Margaritas and a pool were just what the doctor ordered after the big day before.

Until next time keep safe,
Cheers,
Kurt


This is absolute gold...