Zion National Park- Overstimulation: Resting in the Virgin River

Overstimulation: Resting in the Virgin River

By Armando Ortiz

In the heart of Zion National Park, amidst the towering canyons and desert landscapes, I found myself wading in the quiet waters of the Virgin River. As we submerged our bodies in the cool river, I began to reflect on life. It's so easy to get caught up multitasking and doing multiple things at once and how nature offers a welcome respite from the constant electronic overstimulation.

As I rested my body in the waters, I became captivated by the magical beauty surrounding me. I noticed different dragonflies hovering along the river’s edge, some iridescent shimmering in the sunlight, ruby red, blue topaz or pastel yellow. tiny fish began to nibble at my fingers. At that moment I realized that mountains weren’t simply triangular peaks but are also narrow canyons and flat mesas. Floating in the water I realized sandstone can be made up of a spectrum of oranges, with hot pinks and crimson reds bended like a layered velvet cake with hints of tangerine.

In the midst of this sacred place, I was reminded that rivers weren't always freezing cold. In the desert heat of Zion National Park, where temperatures soared to 115 degrees fahrenheit, the river’s 75 degree waters became a cooling sanctuary. Luckily I was not alone to enjoy these waters. Yeny was there with me. Other visitors were enjoying splashing into the waters. 

Being overstimulated by nature brings with it a serene experience, and as I moved my arms and legs in the water I wondered about the lives of those that once called this land home. Even more profound were the cottonwood trees lining the river, and watching its branches sway with the wind and its leaves switch from muted green to yellow green like tiny hands waving at everyone there. The cottonwood trees seemed to whisper secrets of the past, leaving me wondering about the lives of those who once called this place home and how they adapted to the environment. What materials did they use to build their homes? Where did they seek shelter and shade? Among the aspen or juniper trees? How did they navigate the intricate maze of the canyons? Could the alpine plateaus have been locations for the hunt? What vision quests did they embark upon? 

This is what you experience as you rest in the shallow waters of the Virgin River. It brought forth a flood of questions, eclipsing any answers offered by a search bar. It was both physical and intellectual stimulation that the river evoked, finding moments of peace as I moved my arms and legs through the water.

Resting in the Virgin River was more than just a physical experience. It was an experience of reflection and wonder. It opened my eyes to the magical beauty of nature and its ability to transport us through time and space. We left the river with a greater appreciation for the delicate balance of life and an insatiable curiosity about the past and the untold stories they held.

If you ever find yourself longing for a special connection with nature, and are open to consider history’s mysteries, I encourage you to dip your body in the Virgin River. Embrace the colors, the extreme elements, and listen to the whispers of the past, and let nature become the screen that over-stimulates your senses with its boundless wonders.

Zion National Park: Driving along the Canyons

Zion National Park: Driving along the Canyons

By Armando Ortiz

The word Zion is imbued with a sense of sacredness, like a land set aside for divine reasons and Zion National Park lives up to its divine name. Visiting a national park one can expect to be in awe of nature's beauty and a visit to this park goes beyond that expectation. Driving through the canyons of Zion National Park became an unforgettable experience. Entering the park and driving through the canyon took me through an array of memories. At one point I saw things from films I saw in my childhood, and at other times I was reminded of the ancient artifacts that I’ve seen in museums. At other times it seemed that the canyons contained all the images I'd come across up to that point in my life. I’ll briefly attempt to describe my experience.

As you drive the mind begins to work magic and things that probably aren’t there begin to emerge. No matter the time of day, the wonder of this park will have a visual impact. Driving along the edges of the park’s canyon, the majesty and greenery that contrasts with the reds and oranges begin to change. It's as if the sun's movement creates a prism of rich oranges. One begins to wonder if the mind is playing tricks on what we see. After a while, the walls turn into giant sphinxes, towers that inspired the great wall. As if Waldo all of a sudden began appearing in places you thought couldn’t. Except what we are looking at isn’t a book.

As you curve around the edge you see glimpses of petrified orange cream popsicles. This canyon is a geologic wonder veiled in mystery and every eye has its own interpretation. Everyone captures a unique angle of light and reflection Other points look like former Apache lookout posts weathered by the sun. One begins to wonder what the ancient people saw within these walls. Maybe what we see at a distance are abandoned Pioneer forts and homesteads of sandstone slabs. Possibly these canyons were carved out by extraterrestrials and these slabs are a sarcophagus of extinct giants. Coming down on a full moon and carving their wonder. These walls also tap into your own memories. You see a Darth Vader memorial frieze forever imprinted on a canyon relief. The drive becomes a meditating experience where you focus on the road, but let the mind's eye discover these mirages. Along or with others the drive becomes a unique individual experience.

As you continue winding up the canyon there is a bridge being carved away by time’s weathering seasons- completion dates unknown. The sun creates a shadow at the bottom of the canyon. I stopped the car and we got off. Cottonwood shrubs were protecting a creek. Ground squirrels scurrying for cover get your attention. Along the cliffs, at a distance you notice eroded Babylonian griffins, specks to the thunderbird faces one sees stamped on tops of layer mesas. One is reminded of all those museum visits one has taken. It's as if one undergoes a review of all that one has seen.

You pull aside, park your car to take a break, and step out to walk a bit and you see the images of wild horses galloping across plateaus carved on the cliff sides. You might identify other images and discover other carvings. Our mind becomes the hands that discover these mirages. The heat at times becomes overwhelming and you take a drink of water. Water intake becomes important. Nearby, in between the clay layered slots, remnants of spaceships that crashed on the sides of the towers can be glimpsed. These canyons are home to a multitude of animals we probably won't see under the midday sun. Deer emerge later in the day along with smaller mammals. Dragonflies cross your path reminding you that at the bottom of the canyon runs water.

Zion National Park is a place imbued with sacredness. It's a special place that will leave you wondering how something so beautiful could be nature's work. The park’s ease of access allows you to explore its canyons and drive through the park and stop along the way. The vistas here are magical and at times make you have a deep sense of spiritual connection to the land. It's a visit that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Wandering Wonder: Free-verse Piece

Wandering Wonder

By Armando Ortiz

Wandering soul of wonder, 

under the noon sun splendor.

Meandering through the summer, 

inside a jacaranda temple.

A gentle river in late september, 

cooling our feet from a day’s labor.

I close my eyes to open them again, 

and feel the season’s tenor.

The next moment seems frozen, 

her touch is forever tender.

An easterly breeze sweeps, 

making trees sway gentle. 

Crater Lake National Park: Road Trips from Los Angeles

Crater Lake National Park: Road Trips from Los Angeles

By Armando Ortiz

Crater Lake National Park: Nature’s Geologic Wonder Awaits

Situated in South Central Oregon among pine forests that stretch far and wide lies a breathtaking wonder: Crater Lake National Park. Once a giant volcano that surpassed all others in the American Northwest, this park now offers waterfalls, lakes, rivers and creeks surrounding this ancient caldera. If you’re in search of a National Park adventure that unveils geologic wonders and mysterious lakes, this post is made for you. Let’s delve into what you will and might see and discover if you embark on a trip to this captivating destination.

The Road Trip: Unveiling Nature’s Magic

Driving to Crater Lake is easier than it looks, and the drive promises something magical as you drive through diverse landscapes. Road trips have a certain magic to them that cannot be replicated with air travel. Starting the seven hundred mile road trip from Los Angeles, you take the i-5 freeway north. Soon you’ll be driving through the San Joaquin Valley that’s peppered with agricultural towns and golden rolling hills. As you approach Sacramento there might be some traffic, but soon you continue your drive along what seems to be an endless valley. 

Progressing further north, the landscape begins to change and you see oak trees along the edge of the highway, as you continue on it becomes a mix of oaks and pines. At Redding, pines begin to paint the land a deep green, and this will be a good place to stock up on groceries and gas.

At a distance you’ll begin to see the majestic snow capped Mount Shasta, California’s own version of Mt. Fuji. Once you drive past Weed, CA you will take the 97 which will take you northeast. As you keep driving you’ll see views of Mt Shasta and appreciate its grandeur. Driving through the tiny town of Dorris, CA you’ll cross into the Klamath Lakes of Oregon, and be ever so nearer to Crater Lake.

Admire the lake, and consider that thousands of years ago the lake was more than ten times the size than it is today. More recently the lake was mostly drained to have agriculture be a more viable enterprise for the Americans that settled there in the late 1800s to early 1900s. The town of Klamath Falls will be a good place to fill up on gas and get some snacks or buy some ice for your cooler. You continue north and keep driving along what seems like the edge of an endless waters edge until you begin a long stretch of pine forest and reach Highway 138.  

Campgrounds and Water Wonders: Nature’s Bounty

As you approach Crater Lake National Park many campgrounds await, though you must make sure to have made your reservation months ahead of time. To the north and along the edge of Diamond Lake are three campgrounds: Broken Arrow, Thielsen View and Diamond Lake. To the west and southwest,  along highway 62 you’ll find campgrounds along the creeks that feed into the Rogue River: Mill Creek, River Bridge, Natural Bridge, Abbott Creek and Union Creek Campgrounds. The park itself has two campgrounds. The true magic of this entire area lies in its creeks, rivers, lakes and waterfalls, but be prepared for mosquitos and bugs by bringing bug spray. 

We camped at Diamond Lake campground and had lakeside views. Along this campground, various activities are available for you. Rent paddle boats, fishing boats, or kayaks to explore the lake. An easy and mostly flat bicycle road follows the lake’s edge, making it a tranquil ride within the forest. The campground store offers freshly made pizza, decadent ice cream and handcrafted sandwiches.

The Crater: Awe-Inspiring Views Await

Once at Crater Lake prepare to be spellbound by the wonders of its rim. Every side of its rim has awesome panorama views of Mt Shasta and the Klamath Mountains that add to the magic of the place. Along the road are waterfalls that are very cold for you to cool off and dip your feet in, but be sure to wear sunscreen because the sun is intense. 

Taking a short hike to the crater’s rim rewards you with breathtaking views of Wizard Island set against the deep blue waters. Hiking down to the water's edge gives you a chance of diving into the cold waters and is highly recommended. Once you come out of the water you will feel refreshed. If you decide to take a dive make sure to open your eyes to see the mesmerizing blue glow that envelops you.

Exploration and Wonder: An Adventure Worthwhile

You can spend more than one day hiking and backpacking around the crater that range from easy to strenuous. When we were there the southeastern section of the lake was closed for road repairs, so try to get as much information on road conditions as you enter the park. The visitor center has a cafeteria offering fast food options like sandwiches, hotdogs, and chicken tenders. We bought some chicken tenders, along with some cold drinks and had lunch under the shade of some majestic pine trees.

Meeting a park ranger you’ll learn more about the park’s history. Crater Lake was once a 12,000 foot tall volcano named Mount Mazama by scientists today. Its eruption cut away a mile’s worth of height from its top which made it the caldera we call Crater Lake. From a distance, snow-covered volcanoes like Mt. Shasta stand in silent majesty on the California side.

Conclusion: Embrace the Magical Mystery

Crater Lake National Park is a place that has an amazing geologic history with an environment that is perfect to enjoy in the Summers. The drives through the surrounding forest and edge of the caldera make a visit here worthwhile. Whether you bring your family, gather your friends, or set off on a solo escape, Crater Lake’s magic awaits- an adventure well worth embracing.

Fields of Flowers

Fields of Flowers

By Armando Ortiz

Amids fields of white flowers, 

A spectacle of nature unfolds.

They become floating clouds of wonder,

Adorning the landscape they unfold.

As you walk along the path, 

Butterflies gracefully flutter by.

Their delicate wings, a colorful contrast, 

Catch the sunlights, reaching the sky.

The wind dances with playful glee, 

Taking the butterflies out yonder.

Their journey, a whimsical spree, 

As they explore and wander.

In this picturesque scene so serene, 

Nature’s beauty dances with delight.

Fields of white, a dreamlike sheen, 

Creating a magical sight.

The floating clouds of petals sway, 

Carried by the gentle breeze. 

A symphony of colors in display, 

Nature’s masterpiece to appease.

So, wander along the path of dreams, 

Where white flowers and butterflies unite.

Let the wonders of nature’s themes, 

Fill your heart with sheer delight.

Campos de Flores Blancas

Por Armando Ortiz

En los campos de flores blancas, 

Nace un espectaculo divino.

Se vuelven nubes flotantes de maravilla,

Vistiendo el paisaje como un destino.

Al caminar por el sendero,

Mariposas revolotean con esplendor. 

Sus alas delicadas, un contraste certero, 

Atrapan la luz del sol, alcanzando el cielo en su fulgor.

El viento danza con alegria jugetona, 

Llevando a las mariposas hacia lo lejano.

Su viaje, una travesia caprichosa, 

Mientras exploran y deambulan sin engano.

En esta escena pintoresca y serena, 

La belleza de la naturaleza danza con deleite.

Campos de blanco resplandecen sin pena, 

Creando un espectaculo magico que excita.

Las nubes flotantes de petalos se mecen, 

Acariciadas por la brisa suave.

Una sinfonia de colores aparece,

Obra maestra de la naturaleza, un suave enclave.

Asi que vaga por el sendero de ensueno,

Donde flores blancas y mariposas se unen.

Deja que las maravillas de los temas de la naturaleza,

Llenen to corazon de pura alegria, 

donde el amor se inmotraliza en cada lienzo y  cada verso.

The Art of Gustave Moreau: Hieroglyphic Myths, Modern Symbolism, and Roberto Bolano's 2666

The Art of Gustave Moreau: Hieroglyphic Myths, Modern Symbolism, and Roberto Bolano's 2666

By Armando Ortiz

I was first introduced to the art of Gustav Moreau’s while reading Roberto Bolano’s novel 2666, but really knowing who he was and his art came later. While reading James Joyce’s Ulysses, I learned more about Gustave Moreau. This is when I discovered that the art cover on Bolano’s 2666 was taken from Moreau’s piece titled, Jupiter and Semele. The cover art and the novel it protected fit well with the apocalyptic story that was told inside. 

The symbolism and message projected in that painting was religious, cryptic, political and imbued with so much epic mythology that to come to a full understanding of them is quite a challenge. Nonetheless, even in darkness there is a flicker of light that shines a light that reveals a hidden path. The abstractness of a painting or song is what eventually makes us take a second look, which then opens up to the door a greater understanding of its meaning. This has been the experience I had while learning about Moreau and his art.

My quasi rediscovery came about as I was engrossed in the midst of Ulysses and hit upon a conversation on art and literature that one of the main characters was having, where he described different artists and ideas the concepts they present in their works. In this case the “paintings of Gustav Moreau are the painting of ideas.” (James Joyce, Ulysses p.185)

This reintroduction to his work prompted me to read more about the artist, and become more familiar with his works of art. I learned that Moreau’s art is very apocalyptic and many of his paintings are in watercolor, a medium that was not used much those days. His paintings look apocalyptic with his use of bible imagery and what seems to be related to death and the spirit world. At times you might see angels carrying a dead body. At other times some paintings have a woman carrying the head of a man on a platter. In another instance a head appears to a woman. 

Watercolor paintings are as challenging as using oils. When using oils, you mix white into different colors to replicate light, but with watercolor one builds colors on top of the blank white paper. Once that lightness or white is gone. it is hard to recapture -it can be a compelling process. The hues and combinations of colors are key to his art. In some areas he seems to have saturated the paper with multiple layers of color to the point that backgrounds turned purple or brown. They are contrasted by peach colors or faint lines and deep blue colors that make up his skies. His technique makes you think of light, and how when we look out towards the horizon it is difficult to assimilate into a painting. Though one may try, light and refraction plays a big part in the way we see light and color, and yet Gustave succeeds in this with his paintings.

In his book Gustav Moreau, Jean Selz explains that in Moreau’s attempt to explain his paintings he imbued them with greater meaning. By explaining his works with greater detail than could be seen. (Jean Selz, Gustave Moreau p.36) I was engrossed in learning more about his work and when I visited France I made sure to visit his museum. In 2016 I visited Paris, France and visited the Gustave Moreau Museum. Moreau’s most famous paintings are found in this museum, his former studio. His whole studio seems to have been an attempt at explaining the process of making art. When you walk up the wooden stairs of the building and enter it as if the whole space is a library to the process of his artwork. 

Entering the three story studio is like entering his mind as an artist that from the outside does not seem to be significant. Once inside you see the art he created and the artifacts that helped him create his new paintings. Leaving behind sketch books, incomplete paintings, framed sketches, a library of reference books from all over the world. Everything inside is like a representation of what he considered art. He examined mythologies from Europe, but also of other countries. As you continue to look at his reference books you discover that he studied Buddhist art and the jewelry that decorated the personas were inspired by them. Inside glass cases you find marble hands and feet that most likely served as reference to his works.

A recurring theme of his are the chimera found in many of his paintings. Chimera can mean illusion, dreams or the seeking of things that might not be there. When you visit his museum you see before your eyes the different manifestations of illusions and dreams. In some aspects of understanding one can say that life is a dream, but also that dreams are what make us humans. After carefully looking at one of his most famous paintings I began to wonder if it was a representation of an ancient Maya stela imbued with all its ornaments and jewelry and its symbols undecipherable. 

As you continue to explore, some of the framed paintings seem to be sketches and appear incomplete. Taking a step back I think of all the ancient art that exists today. All that is left is the stone artifact, its color faded and no longer visible, yet it still is a piece of workmanship and it is art. The illusion or dream that Moreau was trying to encapsulate can only be appreciated by visiting the museum. It is there where you get a hint of what he was attempting to do- to encapsulate humanity into symbols that were cross-cultural, the symbol of life and people's thoughts, dreams, goals and illusions.

One need not worry about reading his notes on his paintings. Even if it revealed his worries and thoughts about what he wanted to encapsulate on canvas. What he managed to paint is something that is very much along the lines as one of those songs that one likes to listen to over and over. There is a connection in this case with his creation and the outside which still happens even today. Some might ask, well, what is so special about that, and I say that the same concerns that people back in his day had still exist today. Though the symbols used today are slightly different, there is that concern of whether this life is a dream or not. Moreau created works of art, but also explained what the intended message of his works were. Furthermore, his whole studio was an affirmation that art is a process, it was left as proof of how we must be open to ideas, and that process is influenced by everything around us. 

We are the creators of our destiny and we choose how to define the forces around us, and we can recreate the meanings of these forces as a means to create art. The artist, at times is a prophet and at other times a jester too. In order to appreciate the scope of Gustave Moreau’s art one must experience his art, read about his art, and pay a visit to the place that houses his art. Returning to my initial introduction of his work through Roberto Bolano’s 2666. The characters in that book are also living in a world where cultural traditions play a role in the storylines, but these traditions are also challenged. His characters ultimately make independent choices and attempt to recreate their world in a world that is both filled with traditions, myths, sacred, irreverence, lies and mundane symbolism. Maybe, by him talking about Moreau is his novel and having the art cover be his makes Bolano’s novel more compelling and a testament to the power of art.

Kayaking on the Los Angeles River

Kayaking on the Los Angeles River 

By Armando Ortiz

Have you ever floated down the Los Angeles river, catching sight of the traffic on the 110 freeway from within the shadow of a willow tree? Kayaking the Los Angeles River was a unique and memorable experience that exceeded my expectations. A few years back, I had come across an article or news segment on how kayaking was now a possibility on the L.A. River. Kayaking on any body of water was not on my itinerary until recently so I decided to give it a try. With a camping trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks on the horizon, I wanted to gain some practice and training in kayaking so that could be a possible option on the lakes over there. That’s when I discovered the LA River Kayak Safari, which offered local kayaking tours, classes and activities on the river. Last year’s unprecedented rain falls really made me decide to follow through and sign up for one of their excursions.

The LA river, which originates from the northwestern edge of the Angeles National Forest, the Simi Hills and Santa Susana mountain. There are other areas that would drain into the Los Angeles River. According to the owner of the company, Mt Washington and the surrounding hills also contributed as a water source to the river. The areas along the river were peppered by Tongva villages, Native American tribes, by the time the Spanish missionaries began exploring the areas. The river was a  vital water source for the Tongva, providing food like fish and nuts from trees, shelter from from young willow trees and tule whose branches and reeds made up the frames of their dwellings, and resources for tools, like grinding stones, and the raw materials necessary for basket making were found along the river. Exploring the river allowed me to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of this natural waterway. It also combined what I’ve learned in books and articles with a hands-on activity that puts me in an outdoor setting.

Our kayaking adventure began at Oso Park, where we met our guides and completed the necessary paperwork. We then chose bikes to ride to the staging area, which was located about two to three miles north along the river. This unique mode of transportation added an extra element of anticipation to the experience. It was also my first time riding along the Los Angeles river and the weather was perfect. At the staging area we were given a brief lecture on the Los Angeles river, and ancient villages that once existed in the area, as well as information on the local frog population that continues to endure, and when the river began to be contained within concrete walls and channels. Afterwards, we were given paddles and instructed on how to handle the paddles, basic movements to turn left and right, and ways to turn once in the water, after which we strapped on life vests and were ready for the adventure.

Once on the river, I was immediately captivated by the serene beauty of the surrounding. Native plants create a green cover, along with oaks and willow trees giving an occasional respite from the sun. The LA River is home to a variety of birds, which include white egrets and blue herons which stand elegantly and more like kabuki dancers along the water. A black necked stilt greeted me along the way as their sounds broke the solitary silence that was experienced at times. The occasional sight of fish jumping out of the water added to the sense of nature’s enduring presence. Being my first time kayaking, I focused on trying to paddle correctly and to be in sync with the pace of the group, but also took moments to appreciate the wildlife and scenery around me. Ducks, geese, other waterfowl added to the vibrant life of the river’s ecosystem making any signs of city life a distant backdrop.

In conclusion, kayaking the Los Angeles River was an excursion that provided both a recreational activity and a deeper connection to nature. It offered a glimpse into the historical and cultural significance of the river, as well as a chance to appreciate the diverse birdlife that is hardly ever noticed, and natural beauty it harbors. The LA River Kayak Safari provided excellent instruction and guidance through the trip, making it accessible even for a newbie like myself. Along the way, I received tips on maintaining balance in fast currents and was reminded of the proper way to hold the paddle. As I paddled along the river, there was a profound sense of peace and tranquility, moving with the flow and discovering my rhythm. The gentle sway of the willow trees, and the graceful presence of egrets and herons all contributed to a feeling of harmony and deep satisfaction. Kayaking the LA River was more than an adventure and a safari; it was an opportunity to disconnect from the bustling city life and immerse myself in the natural wonder that our city has to offer. I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to explore a unique aspect of Los Angeles and immerse themselves in an outdoor adventure and make a connection to our natural environment.

Hiking Mount San Jacinto via Deer Springs Trail

 Hiking Mount San Jacinto via Deer Springs Trail

by Armando Ortiz

I started the hike at 5am, right as the sunlight began cresting over the horizon, and returned to my car by 6pm. This was my first hike up to Mount San Jacinto. This was a journey through changing landscapes that opened my eyes to what once was happening in these areas. Slopes of the mountain face underwent a remarkable transformation as I ascended, shifting from a sandy dirt trail surrounded by manzanita and oak trees to rugged gray rock boulders intermingled with pine outcroppings. The shadows of trees, and bushes just as well changed throughout the day and were like on complete sundial. Rock formations and uninhabited clearings indicating past life. The hike to the summit makes the Deer Springs trail unforgettable. Any hike that allows you to see the change in the different ecosystems within a mountain range is always special and memorable to the senses. 

To reach the top of Mount San Jacinto an early morning start is recommended. If this hike is done in the summertime there will be sufficient time and sun to complete the hike. There will be two places where water can be gathered depending on which route you take once you reach Strawberry Junction. This day I chose to take a left and head north along the trail. The morning breeze was refreshing and the day was clear. These stretches of the trail are wooded and there will be plenty of shade.

Along the way one might see things that otherwise are overlooked at times. Fallen tree trunks at times looked like crow wings that decorate the ground as signs of past fires that had burned through the area. As one continues climbing you see granite outcroppings, some looking like Olmec figures covered in shrouds while other rocks are huge boulders that have been weathered for millenia. 

Although the hike was difficult, the desire to reach the top became more and more intense as the landscape changed. Although difficult the trail gives a sense of serenity as you discover different fauna and hear the wind blow through the branches of pines and chaparral. There is enough variance in this changing environment that the eye stays stimulated. Before reaching the summit I refilled all my water bottles at Deer Springs, which seems to have water flowing year around and a few feet away the PCT connects with the trail.

As I began my descent the trail revealed some things along the way that allowed me to make connections to what I had seen on the way up earlier in the day. I took a loop on the hike up, and descended on the east facing side of the summit along Peak Trail. This side of the mountain is more exposed to the elements, hiking down the trail is easy, and lined by bushes. Palm Springs can be seen at a distance if you stop and look east. I reached a section that was marshy and had plants that seemed to spiral up tall with a vibrant green. Water seeped out of the mountain on this section of the trail. White granite rubble piled up along a slope seem like caves where natives might have sat and studied the sky. The thick walls and hangs serve as protection from sudden storms of summer heat. 

As the afternoon sun slowly moves across the horizon the shadows of the boulders seem to turn into prehistoric statues and monuments. These looked like the ruins of Greek temples with its slabs laying flat one on top of the other. Most of the trail was quiet, with occasional hikers and backpackers headed up to the summit. The trees sway and the plants stand tall and vibrant indicating that water is near. I leaned on one of the boulders to keep my balance as I stepped over a root and the warm boulder told me of the warmth that was still ahead on the other face of the mountain.

 As I reached Wellman Divide, the sun’s rays served as a reminder that it's summer, and was suddenly rewarded by fabulous views of Idyllwild’s granite canyons making it the perfect location to take a water break and enjoy views of the town below. At this junction bedrock mortars, like giant buried bowling balls, reveal signs of ancient communities that once existed and made their trek to this place reinforcing a belief that this mountain has always been visited and has been the perfect place to take a rest. Once you begin nearing Strawberry Junction you see broken pine trees damaged and altered by boulders that freed themselves from the upper slopes, held sideways by black oaks that resemble canoes. As you descend you feel the rough edges of the rocks rub against the soles and sides of my boots.

On the way down there were times where the trail seemed to change directions, and I had to stop and reorient myself. It was as if something were pulling me towards other directions where I could have gotten lost. I began to wonder and ask myself if the mountain was communicating something to me. Of course this is all idle talk. As I was coming down I began to notice what appeared to be directional markings covered in pine needles and dirt that indicated to a direction or a place. These markers were likely man-made, as I later learned that Native American inhabited this place in the past. At some point I wondered if the dead manzanita branches were covering up what lay beyond. Cleared spaces seemed to be evidence of possible seasonal villages or places where people once processed nuts.

I made it back to the car, my mind remained filled with the dazzling sights I had experienced and remarkable connections I had made along the way. Intrigued by what I had seen, I decided to do some research after returning home. I searched for the trail that I had hiked earlier but now seeing it from a slightly different perspective. I discovered that along the trail there are areas that are like patches of meadows where people could have set up communities. It turns out that the surrounding Native American tribe, the Cahuilla people, had a connection to the mountain and seasonally migrated to these areas. There is even a boulder, about a mile away from the trailhead, that has pictographs that women would visit and write on the walls of this boulder as a coming of age ritual. The boulder that looked like a giant bowling ball most likely was a site for processing acorns and other nuts. 

The top of the mountain was crowded with all kinds of people feeling accomplished, and as I write this down I wonder if the ancient had the same feelings once they reached  the summit and gazed down at the lands and places that they called home. People from all directions, Idyllwild and Palm Springs reaching the top and taking pictures, me included. Different tribes at the top of this mountain exchange greetings and rest on the rocks. Truly this is a mother mountain that has had a significance for people all over the area for a millenia and continues to be silent.