WHAT FUN WE HAD!
Our day started before the sun rose. We packed into Diane's minivan and headed towards Palm Springs. Upon arrival we registered, slathered on sunscreen and munched on bagels. We all agreed to go on the 4 mile hike and loaded onto the awaiting shuttle that took us into the canyon. We were in the pink group. Once everyone arrived we began our trek. Our guide moved at the speed of light. We just stared down at the rock ridden trail afraid to fall (which I later did while trying to keep up and look at the flowers). I did not know who was in front of me just the shoes. At the top of a crest (finally a break from the break neck speed walking) we were told we were going to cross the stream 20 times and because of the recent precipitation the water was high. We were excited. We crossed our first time and learned the importance of hiking poles. We borrowed from our hiking mates. Our group spread out and we were able to hike at a more leisurely pace, finally I could take pictures. We end up behind the fearful water crosser. With every crossing we fell further behind the front of our group...would we make it out? Michelle told us she once got lost in the canyons and we decided she would not be our leader. Every stream crossing proved to more difficult then the last as the water rose and moved swiftly below us. We each looked to our neighbors and the natural resources...Ah ha! fallen palm frons became our walking sticks. Much to the dismay of Diane I had an excellent fron with a beautifully curved top. After being hit by it several times, she circumcised my stick. While hiking we came up with a 101 uses for our frons, oar, shovel...
The wild flowers were magnificent! The rocks were pieces of art hanging in the most wonderful gallery. Our eyes filled with the natural beauty of the canyons. The rushing water was the only sound heard. We made it to the end of the trail the waterfall called the 6 or 7 sisters (I can't remember) We climbed like billy goats up the rocks to catch a glimpse of the falls and then relaxed. We could have stayed there all day. It was so relaxing and breathtaking. Soon we headed back the same way we went and were quite proficient now at crossing the stream. Here is a hint...go fast. Towards the end Michelle got stuck behind the fearful crosser (see picture) and at the last crossing someone in our group finally fell in. Thankfully it was none of us!
After the hike we enjoyed a little repast, recieved a bag of goodies and a tee. We are all looking forward to next years hike!
climbing up the hill
Michelle and Diane with their big sticks
6/7 sisters waterfall...can you see all 6/7 of them?
Michelle perched on a steep rock in the middle of the stream waiting for the fearful crosser to lead to dry land!
Diane's favorite wild flowers
amazing white water
heading back
