Love bugs, NOT!!!

After more than a month vacation of mostly just eating and sleeping with no outdoor activities, I was eager to get back into hiking and finish the last 2 (Santiago and San Bernardino) of the 12 peaks. I wanted to take it easy so I picked Santiago Peak since it has the lowest elevation of the two. I took Cadillac and Joplin trails as suggested due to trail closures.  I was supposed to stop at the North Main Divide junction but when I reached there, I saw a couple of mountain bikers on their way to the station. So, I decided to continue hiking all the way up there too.

With the combination of no exercise for more than a month + loose rock & dirt + steepness (in some areas) + bugs + heat, it was rather not a good experience. If you plan to hike during this season, I highly recommend using head net and  bug spray and bring lots of water or carry a water filtration system.