Hike Crew: Brad Fogel, John Masdea, Anders Pers, Eben Strousse
The Good News: The road to the top of Diablo was closed due to Covid-19, offering a bit more tranquility. The downside of this climb is typically the hordes of people who drive up to the top. As you crest the mountain with aching muscles, sore joints and sweat on your brow, your feeling of accomplishment and solitude is usually confronted with a packed parking lot of Sunday drivers, car stereos, and kids with Slurpees. For us this day, it was only a few other long haul hikers and accomplished road bikers, who had also earned every foot of elevation.
The Bad News: Our start and finish included a few miles of blacktop given Covid-19 also meant the trail-head parking lot was closed.
The Almost Really Bad News: It was a miracle none of us stepped on the rattlesnake we spotted on top of Twin Peaks. This is a very popular spot to stop, rest and enjoy the view after your first push. There are exposed rocks at the top where everyone (including us) scramble up to enjoy the views and take photos. The young rattler was perfectly camouflaged in a small depression in the rocks that we had all stepped over or around. It's hard to keep in mind you should stop and survey the area for snakes, when you've just crested a peak with killer views. The hot weather and exposed rocks made the perfect conditions for a snake to bask in the sun. Beware! Would have meant an airlift!
Responses
Twin Peaks is one of my fav spots on Diablo. I haven’t seen a rattler there before… I’ll be extra careful now. Thanks for the warning. (Oh, and nice pic, by the way!)