Chipmunks and lizards are out of hibernation. The snow on the ridge has melted. Time to hike to Tahquitz Peak.
The hike to Tahquitz Peak is normally alittle over 4 miles but the steep road leading to the trailhead is closed so an extra strenuous mile and the hike from the house is added to the hike. Twelve miles in all.
Views of Garner Valley are the first amazing sight.
Next comes the "window" rock.
Our goal is to climb to the almost 9,000 feet peak to this historic fire lookout tower.
This is a view of Diamond Valley Lake in the distance.Anza, the epicenter of the 4.7 earthquake in March is to the left of this photo.
The fire tower is within our sight when we reach this sign.
We reach our destination after 4 1/2 hours of hiking exhausted but elated! An Ecuadorian who grew up in the Andes races up the mountain while we are rewarding ourselves with chocolate for our accomplishment. Wow! In the end, it doesn't matter how quick you are at hiking or if you can only hike part of the trail.
Just enjoy the journey!
