I started at 7:45 am and was making good progress. I made it to Orchard camp and took a snack break. I had never been beyond Orchard and was so excited. I was prepared for the steep trek ahead of me.
As I approached the first switchback around the corner, I got the surprise of my life. Wait for it.......
A naked man! LMFAO
He startled me and stopped right in front of me, only covering up the family jewels. So I asked him, "Are you training for Hiking Naked Day?" He said, "Yes, I am training for Hiking Naked Day." I replied, "But it's not until June 21st." Then he wished me a good day and took off. It was gloomy and very cold on this Tuesday morning, so I'm not sure how he managed.
Anyways, after that exciting moment I continued on to the bench and ate one of my delicious peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I was really impressed with the trail beyond Orchard. It was so beautiful! A tough, steep trail but worth every step. I was surrounded by clouds and mist the entire way up to the summit. I also saw some deer along the way.
From the Mt. Wilson toll road I opted for the steep shortcut directly to the summit. It was freezing but peaceful. I saw one other hiker and talked with him for a bit before eating my second peanut butter and jelly sandwich and enjoying my serenity.
I descended the same way and thoroughly enjoyed my hike, finding lots of wildflowers along the way.
