The highlight of this section was summiting Mount Baden-Powell. At 9,400 feet, it is one of the largest of Southern California!
We were surprised that the trail above 7,200 feet was still covered in snow, making micro spikes a necessity for the summit. With the switchback trail snow covered, we had no choice but to follow prior “kicked-in” footprints vertically up the mountain.
We made it without insult or injury and were rewarded with a 360 view of Mount Hawkins, Thoorp Peak, Mount Burnham, and Ross Mountain to name a few!
Fortunately, the typical gale force winds were absent when we summited and we experienced warm (60’s), sunny day.
Other highlights from this section include: reaching mile 400, a road walk alternative to help protect the endangered Mountain Yellow Frogs, saw a 1500-2000 year old Limber Pine Tree, and had our highest mileage day (23.87 miles).
Next stop Tehachapi!
