by Susan Campo
On March 29 ten people showed up to hike to Mission Peak with Dora and Gina. It was a very clear day. The hills were green and promising. We did see Monkey Flowers, Phacelia, Lupines and the usual. However there was a distinct lack of Poppies this year, perhaps the results of our California drought!
WE HAVE GREAT AND KNOWLEDGEABLE LEADERS IN GLS. Even if you know all the facts about hiking in heat, if the heat hits you with palpitating heart, nausea and sudden loss of energy, it is great to have understanding people around you. Heat can cause these symptoms and worse, if ignored. Gina, as assistant leader, knew just what to say and do when my pulse went up and my blood pressure down due to heat. She said, “Take some more electrolytes in your water; have a few bites of tangerine or energy food, even if you had a good breakfast just a few hours ago. Lighten your pack; pace yourself slowly; wet your bandana….and you will enjoy the rest of the day!” Knowing my tendency for heat problems, I did as was suggested. I even put up my sun umbrella to everyone’s surprise so I could carry my “shade” with me. We did enjoy the rest of the hike!
The views from the top of Mission Peak were awesome. Then we all descended through the green rolling hills and back to O’Melveny Park where the fruit orchard was full of ripening grapefruits. A joy to behold!
I was so grateful to our wonderful GLS leaders that day. I hope anyone who is hiking in heat this spring or summer will consider this as a good lesson for all.
