In early May, Kolby of 100hikes.com decided he wanted to hike 100 times before the end of 2009. Last night he finished the task with a group of friends on a rainy night hike to Echo Mountain, the first hike he did as part of this journey.
I met Kolby on a landmark hike of my own – my second attempt at San Gorgonio Mountain. He helped me get up to the top of Southern California’s tallest peak, and I’m proud to say I was there when he reached the end of his 100th hike.
We started in the late afternoon with a group of just under 20 hikers, and after hearing some inspirational words, headed past the paved gate to the Cobb Estate and toward Echo Mountain.
It had rained earlier in the day, and was still drizzling for the beginning of the hike. All of the sweeping views of the cities below were completely obscured by fog, but it was definitely easier hiking this trail in the rain than it is during the full summer sun.
Eventually, we were able to get above the lowest layer of clouds. As the remaining clouds dissolved away, more of the surrounding landscape appeared around us – providing some really incredible views.
Too often, I stay inside if it looks like it’s going to rain, but some of the most incredible hiking moments I can remember have come from hiking through and above the cloud layer — I really need to do some of these fog hikes more often!
We ended up arriving at Echo Mountain just in time for the fog below us to dissolve, letting the city lights mirror the stars above. We popped some champagne and beer and celebrated before one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen hiking in Los Angeles. Sadly, my shaky hands didn’t do the view justice, but Kolby had better luck (click for full image – it’s pretty amazing):
A few more pictures and videos from this hike are posted on Flickr.
A huge congratulations to Kolby for this great accomplishment — and remember, when those New Years’ Resolutions start popping into mind later tonight, the years are whatever you make them. Take a little bit of time to stop worrying and start doing in 2010. Hike Whitney. Try snowshoeing. Go camp in the desert. And don’t beat yourself up if it’s not perfect – just get out there and try … even if it’s raining!
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Wow, that shot of the city lights through the fog is awesome!
Thanks for a great year of posts! Your last paragraph is on target. I a few years ago I made one new year resolution: to hike more. Easy to track mileage in a small notebook and voila, I keep up the distance each year without much stress or strain and I feel so much better physically and mentally. I look forward to more great stories from you in the new year.
Great pics man, and what an accomplishment for Kolby. I thought the last pic kinda looked like a scene out of War of the Worlds! Really enjoyed this post. Thanks!
It was a blast to hike with you again. So very happy for Kolby, and so excited about what 2010 has in store…
And I’ll second that holy trinity of Whitney, desert, and snow!
Thanks for making it to my last hike, Casey. It seemed very poignant that you were there, considering that you were the first blog to write about my site. :)
It truly was a beautiful sight from the top and I am glad I could share it with friends.
Great job, Kolby! It’s been awesome to follow your progress.
Wow! Those pics are awesome Casey! Great job on the 100 hikes Kolby!
I wish I could have made it. Those cloud shots are incredible.
What a fantastic set of pictures – the last one especially! It’s a magical thing when you are able to find a place of (relative) quiet and solitude amongst the city as you all did; the night photo really embodies this. It’s an inspiration!
I read the San Gabriel Valley Tribune story about the 100 hikes. It inspired me to set my own definite goal of 100 hikes in 2010.
Didn’t start blogging about them until about a week ago, so there’s a lot of hikes with no description posted. But they’re all listed: http://www.myown100hikes.blogspot.com
Already up to 24 hikes. It’s been a blast, so far.
Open to suggestions on other hikes to take, of course.
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