It was March last year when I first hiked to Henninger Flats. Since then, I have hiked to this place a few times but I never made it all the way to Idlehour. Idlehour has been a thorn on my back since last year - I had to quit a few yards past the small wooden bridge and head back due to cramping issues - this was going to be the trip where I would redeem myself and finally have the chance to get this thorn off of me.
I met with a few friends of mine early Saturday morning and we began our hike to Henninger Flats. We started our hike at around 8AM and after an hour or so, we arrived at Henninger Flats.
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| My pack loaded with everything I need |
It was a cold morning on Henninger, fog and mist covered most of the campground. The city below was not visible until late in the afternoon. It was a good day to do this hike since the trail to Idlehour can get hot during the summer months. The cool air was nice.
After checking in for the day, we head to the upper campgrounds and pick our sites. It was fun checking out everyone's setup for the evening.
Six Moon Designs and
Big Agnes shelters were well represented on this 24 hour adventure.
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| My Six Moon Designs Skyscape Scout |
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| Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo |
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| Six Moon Designs Wild Oasis |
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| Two Big Agnes' and an REI Solo |
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| Can you spot all the BA tents? |
After setting up camp and having a few snacks, we pack up our day bags and start our day hike to Idlehour.
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| The hike begins... |
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| Ahh...the bridge, it wasn't far from here when I had to turn back last year |
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| Pasadena barely seen through the fog |
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| A nice walk uphill to get your leg muscles flowing |
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| Canyons were amazing! |
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| After 2.5 miles or so, we reach Idlehour...Finally, I made it here! |
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| ...and it feels good to be here. |
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| Our lunch spot for a few... |
It really felt good to finally make it to Idlehour. Not being able to make it through here last year has truly been a thorn on my back. I felt like I couldn't continue and try another trail until I completed this one. It feels really good!
After a few hours at Idlehour, we head back to Henninger to spend the rest of the afternoon. A nice campfire, good food, Wild Turkey, and good friends.
Alas, all good things must come to an end. Morning came quickly - we lost an hour - and everyone rises slowly from their tents. A leisure breakfast and everyone starts to pack out for the day.
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| My view from my tent |
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| You just can't get tired of this... |
Just like when it started, my pack loaded with everything I brought in...ready to head back down.
Another 24 hour adventure ends with good company. More times than not, it's the people around you that make the hike much more enjoyable. Till the next adventure...
Glad you were able to get that thorn our of your side. Looks like a great time, and love the lunch spot!
ReplyDeleteThanks Dean! Finally got the proverbial monkey off my back for sure...now on to other trails. That lunch spot will definitely get visited again when it gets warmer. It's a very inviting swimming hole.
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