The first real hike that we ever did together was about 4 years ago, in May 2009. Based on Katharine’s research on Modern Hiker, we did the 7 mile loop to Sandstone Peak in the Santa Monica Mountains during a hot May day. Like many beginner hikers, we didn’t bring quite enough water for the hot day and found ourselves exhausted at the end, but that didn’t stop us from falling in love with hiking.
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Photos from our 2009 hike
Video from our 2009 Hike
Now, 4 years later, we consider ourselves avid hikers and backpackers and have bagged many of the highest peaks in southern California.
Since we are planning to move to the East Coast at the end of the summer, we thought we should hike Sandstone Peak one last time. This time we were in better hiking condition and the weather was much cooler. 4 years ago it was a challenging hike to reach the top and return, but this time it was just a stroll in the park.
2009 (I sense a little more enthusiasm)
2013
While eating a snack at the top we were entertained by a small mouse gathering grass, so of course now we have 84 photos of a mouse thanks to Nathan!
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A couple weeks after our hike, the Springs Fire swept through just northwest of the trail, charing all the chaparral. Luckily this section of trail was apparently not affected, but we expect the views of the surrounding hills may be quite altered.
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It was fun to return to where all our hiking began and see how far we’ve come!