A Steep Uphill Climb To Pay For Our ‘Sins’

After our Monday night dinner at Sherman’s, Paulette and I thought it would be a good idea to go for a long hike yesterday to repent for our sins (aka Carrot Cake and Lemon Meringue Pie).  Even though it wouldn’t wear off many of the calories consumed during our dinner at least it would make us feel a bit better.  It was a nice afternoon so we headed straight down the Gene Autry Trail to where it dead-ends at Hwy. 111.  From there it was straight up the mountain!

We made it to the top high above Palm Springs and the desert

The first part of this trail is a gravel service road that leads up to a huge water reservoir.  From there it narrows down a bit but the grade steepens considerably.  It reminded us a lot of the hike up to Old Mt. Baldy back home in the Cowichan Valley.  There are no easy switchbacks to allow for catching your breath – it’s just straight up!

As difficult as it was, the hike to the top of the mountain was sure worth it.  Not only did we get a spectacular view of Palm Springs and most of the entire Coachella Valley, we also got a good close-up look at Mt. Jacinto and a far away view of Mt. San Gorgonio.  It was nice to find a flat rock, sit down and just enjoy the view and the warmth of the sun.

Even Rylie looks a bit tuckered out after the long climb uphill

Walking back down the same trail we hiked up was much, much easier.  It only took us about 20 minutes compared to the hour or so we spent getting to the top.  From there it was just a fifteen minute drive and we were safely back at the Sands RV Resort.  We seem to have settled into a nice routine of activities, rest and leisure here.  I guess ‘rest and leisure’ are pretty much the same but, heck, we’re on holidays so 2 for 1 is fair.

In Palm Springs, a golf course is never too far away

The countdown is on for the arrival of Paulette’s BFF, Claire, next Tuesday.  Claire will be staying with us and I will be magically transformed into a 7-day Quilt Shop Chauffeur.  Both Claire and Paulette are hopeless quilting fanatics and OMG – they’ve even printed up a schedule that includes day trips to quilt shops in San Diego, Temecula, Los Angeles and points in-between, OMG!!

Have a great Wednesday, and thanks again for visiting!