I started hiking just about seven months ago, after YEARS of being out of shape. When I started hiking, 3 mile hikes were huge milestones, and I could barely finish them. After completing a few long hikes, my motivator, Karen McCartney, encouraged me to hike San Bernardino with her. I was terrified, and began looking up survival kits and tips! I pictured myself being rescued by helicopter after getting lost in the wilderness. I am happy to report, I made it out safe, with a feeling of accomplishment! This hike was so beautiful every step of the way. We brought plenty of snacks and water, and warm clothes. We started at 7am, and were not the first ones on the trail, but saw very few people all day. The manzanita's were in bloom, the clouds covered the valley (hiding civilization and all signs of people). It literally felt like we were in the heavens, surrounded by nature. The few people we met along the way were so very nice, it felt like although we did not know each other, we were bonded by our efforts, love of nature and the excitement of this hike.