Having this trail as the farthest from me, my friend and I decided a certain time to be at Nordic base around 7am. Given the sort of heat wave these past days it may be hot even with the weather forecast.

Enroute I-5 with high spirit, until waze suddenly showed alert of all lanes closure along 5 just after 138. There was a big rig split in half and spilled 1000gal of asphalt per CHP. All NB vehicles were rerouted to 138.

We arrived at the parking lot just before 8 and parking was half full, mostly due to campers. It was a little chilly with the high wind and temp at 50s. It was partly overcast that made our hike comfortable.

I like this trail as it gives me that forest vibe as soon as I step foot on the trail. The coniferous trees, in my mind is automatically associated with forest and not other trees????????

Once we were in the forest, we heard the hustling of wind hovering above us but we were protected by the canopy of the forest. After about a mile in, we entered a new landscape, an open meadows that started to change color from vibrant green to dusty brown. This continued on with some sporadic trees until we descended to Chumash wilderness.

We were in the forest again with some patches of snow along and on the trail.

The last time I was here was on 2019 and able to complete 321 challenge… our ascent was a little uncomfortable, legs got tired easily probably due to the long drive / traffic earlier. Despite that, which always the case when hiking????, the overall adventure was exhilirating. The weather really cooperated.

There were other female hikers, also 6pop challengers that already striking poses next to Sawmill landmark with the 2 signs????. We did a quick break and photos then headed back to the parking but detoured to Mt. Pinos for some photos(might as well right?).