Little Cahuilla Mountain, Cahuilla Mountain, Asbestos Mountain
15 October 1994
By: Leora Jones
Leaders: Ron & Leora Jones
Because of bad weather, only four of the 12 participants showed up. We met at the
intersection of Hwy 371 and Cary Road Saturday morning, to find a white out and
light mist. However, the hike up Cahuilla was pleasant (except for the
persistent fogging of eye glasses), and the fog and mist were so low we couldn't
see any of the surroundings, let alone a view from the peak. The cool wet
weather brought out ticks, and we found three on our clothing.
Back at the cars at noon, we drove the next mile or so to the road head for
Little Cahuilla. One participant chose to leave since it was so wet and cold.
The white out was slowly lifting and we could occasionally see the summit, we
thought no rain on the hike, but quite a breeze dried out our outer layer of
clothing. In the fog we passed the four false bumps before finding the summit.
Nice views from the top with some clearing off in the distance. The ribbonwood
forests on the approach were marvelous, and the fresh smell of plant life due to
the rain was breath-taking.
We caravaned to Pinyon Flat Campground off Hwy 74 to find it almost deserted.
Skies still looked threatening, and the clouds were getting darker and lower
again. Bob Beach decided to drive up Santa Rosa and later return. Within minutes
after arriving at the campground, the rain cut loose. It got stronger and
persisted for several hours. Bob returned and told us of the snow on top of
Santa Rosa. We all dined in our VW van and the 5 of us were quite cozy in the
rain.
Morning was a picture-perfect day. Sunny blue skies, not a cloud to be seen
anywhere around. We drove to the Asbestos roadhead through the recently fire
devastated area. There is already new growth appearing on many of the burned
plants, but it is quite a sight to see so much blackened and destroyed all
around the homes.
The four of us headed across the desert floor through a lot of cats claw and
cholla, but soon were above most of it. The summit view was unbeatable.
Beautiful, clear, crisp and a light dusting of snow on the high points around
us. Ron had brought our video camera and shot about 10 minutes of film along the
way. The views from the summit came out nice and clear.
We returned to the cars around noon, to find a man waiting. He had hit our
van and was waiting to give us his name and insurance information. Quite
honorable I'd say. Too bad for our van, but lucky that he is willing to pay.
Thanks to all for a fun trip. Participants included Bob Beach, Alice Spring,
Terry Morse and Margie Hutten.
