March Interlude: It's A Wonderful Life

 For the March interlude, a hike in the mountains above the city of Sierra Madre was chosen. The short, steep trail which switchbacks up Bailey Canyon, offers some spectacular canyon and city views, ultimately reaching the ruins of George's cabin, built for a life of seclusion after he left Bedford Falls, and ultimately tops out at Jones Peak (you could continue on to the Mount Wilson Toll Road to continue climbing, but most people are probably satisfied with reaching Jones. We were satisfied to make the cabin, situated quite high up itself, but still a good ways short of the summit. Along the way were green mountainsides, a full flowing stream (one frequent return visitor we talked to said he had never seen water in it before this year), numerous waterfalls (again, but for this unusual winter of heavy rainfall, rarely seen), and wildflowers just beginning to put on their show. The lowest waterfall is easily accessible by taking the left trail at the junction where the trail to the cabin and peak really begins its relentless ascent. The others are all higher up, deep in the canyon and much more difficult to reach.

While some of the low stone walls of George's cabin are sill there, the bronze plaque, sadly is not.

lower waterfall

Friday morning trail traffic

that guy had just wrapped up some trail repairs - Thank You!

St. Padraig's Day green

lunch time at George's cabin

down in the valley

lupine

Friday morning trail traffic

fungus

I had never been to Bailey Canyon before today. It is a nice little, city managed wilderness park. Parking (on a Friday morning) was easy - but Saturday or Sunday may not be. There is a rather rickety, precariously perched bike rack by the restroom, but bikes are not permitted on the trail. 

These monthly interludes are a great way to start a weekend, now let's see what can be done to keep it going. Whatever you do, make it fun.