Big Hike #1: San Bernardino Peak

Finally getting around to posting my big hikes! I did this one back on 9/17. I remember driving out to this trail and being worried because I was driving through some drizzling rain on the way, but as I drove up into the mountains, I was soon above the clouds and there was nothing but beautiful clear skies above me. This trail was my (at the time) longest distance hike at 16 miles. The 4700ft of elevation gain was gradual over the distance which made for an enjoyable journey through the mountains. I walked through an old burn area and saw many burned trees but also lots of beautiful new regrowth and little flowers. My favorite part of this hike was seeing my first mountain meadows. These little patches of flat grassy areas were so beautiful and magical and I was really feeling some Twilight vibes.
The distance really got to me on my descent back down, but I still managed to knock this trail out in 9 hours. Met a lot of wonderful people on the way, including other hikers doing the same challenge. As much as I loved the solitude of this adventure, getting to meet such wonderful kind people in the hiking community has been just as great.