Ron and I were able to escape LA before the Friday night traffic, and enjoyed a leisurely late afternoon meal at the Okie Girl. It happened to be their first day of the "Okie Fest" celebration, an annual event just beginning to celebrate the umbrellas of one year ago. They serve a fine meal, at a moderate price, and have brewed some good tasting beers. We camped at the Mt. Pinos parking area Friday night in the cool, crisp, clean air. We met 12 people at 7:30 am and began our day. By 8:30, everyone was on the summit of Mt. Pinos, some driving part way up the road and others walking up from the meeting spot.
After a brief look around by the microwave station, we began down the nice switchback west toward Sawmill. The temperatures remained pleasant and in one hour, we were on Sawmill Mtn. The views were marvelous. Three people with their two canines soon caught us on the summit and briefly stayed with us on top.
Grouse was just 45 minutes further, first down the trail from Sawmill, and then up the shady pine covered slope. Jone Levis got her 50th peak. After a brief snack on top and signing in, we were back on the trail. The weather was warming up, but still comfortable for hiking. By 1:30, we were all at the cars and heading home.
Thanks to all for an enjoyable day. Participants were Bruce Hemphill, Dorothy Danziger, Neal Cosand, Harriet Edwards, Thom Allen, Nimi Baue, Paula Bartak, Carol Burns, Jan Spratlem, Heinz and Renee Kafka, and Jone Levis.
