Sheep Mountain, Martinez Mountain

11-12 March 1967

By: Bob Van Allen

Leader: Bob Van Allen
Asst: Roger Mitchell

Once again, an enjoyable weekend with beautiful hiking weather was experienced by those who refused to let the weather in Los Angeles affect their plans. No rain, snow, sleet, etc. came to spoil our days.

From late Friday eve until the appointed meeting time Saturday morning, people came to Pinyon Flat Campground. By departure time we had gathered 25 participants, 5 for a day hike and 20 for the backpack. The hike to camp at Cactus Spring was made at a leisurely pace and we arrived in a little over two hours. We took time to set up camp and have lunch before departing for Sheep. Our return from Sheep left us with time for area exploration, a trip to Horsethief Creek, and for some, a pleasant afternoon nap. Temperature at 7 p.m. was 33 degrees. Although there is no water at this camp, there is plenty of wood for a campfire.

Sunday a.m. we were on the trail at 7. Earlier, the summit of Martinez was shrouded in clouds. Now it began to clear and by the time of our arrival at 9:20 we were in beautiful clear sunshine. After lunch (or was it second breakfast?) huddled in the rocks, we began the trip back to camp and were about 30 minutes down when the top was again socked in. Twenty minutes in camp to finish packing and we were on our way. We were at the cars by 2:15 and for a change enjoyed a leisurely daylight trip home.