| Peak | Mt Wilson |
|---|---|
| Group | CSUSB Geology |
| Trailhead | Chantry Flats |
Coming into the six pack challenge we underestimated how difficult the trail to the top of Mt. Wilson actually is, especially for someone who is 6 foot, 260, and out of shape. Nevertheless we set out from the parking lot at 6:15am and were confident we would finish rather quickly when we reached the halfway point in about an hour. Shortly after the halfway mark the trail starts to climb and continues to climb until the end of the trail. After a mile or so I began to feel tired and my quads started to cramp, so I slowed my pace considerably. The last half mile of the trail was not as well shaded as the rest of the trail and with the sun and my body working against me, it was the hardest part of the whole trail.
Along the trail I was passed by many other hikers, but there was one couple that noticed I was struggling and decided to take my mind off of the strenuous activity I was doing by simply talking to me as we hiked up the trail. The husband, Brandon, and I exchanged small talk, which lead to him asking me what do for work. I told him I just graduated from CSUSB with a geology degree and that I am starting my masters in the fall. He then asked about different geology related topics, which took up about 45 minutes without me even noticing. This helped me take my mind of of the various aches going on within my legs. Eventually we were separated because I had to take a break, while they continued onward.
The weather was warm today, but most of the trail is shaded, which was enjoyable. Bugs were annoying, but many people had bug nets on, which would come in handy for the next trip up to Mt. Wilson.
