Alone on the long walk home. On a 12-mile loop with much of it off-trail. Along ridges, over small mountain rises and through wide-open fields. Deep in thought yet situationally aware. Here and there heading off to a false path like so many times before. Persistent and successive approximation. Listening to the wilderness, watching the time and weather, paying close attention to my body knowing full well its exposure, limits, and weaknesses.
Ridge after ridge, the mountains here are large and small just to sweep out before you both far and wide. At this fire lookout station, the range of view contributes to the protection of this wilderness.
From one end to another, traversing the Kratka Ridge of the San Gabriel mountain range leads you to incredible and awe-inspiring views. Whether it is the journey, the destination, or both, the beauty is but a shadow of new inspiration to come. Following the path laid before you to guide along a way of renewal and wonder.
Throughout the heights of the San Gabriel Mountains, there are places of off-trail access with careful navigation and planning. There are numerous ridges, peaks, canyons, and valleys that lead you from destination to destination. Along the way, there are unforgettable features that capture the imagination.
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