Led by Gail Wise and Mary Pickert
By Gail Wise
What a strong group of hikers we got for our hike up the Beaudry Loop! We were strong in number (12) and strong in fitness. The latter was a particularly good thing, because there are two ways to do this loop, the steep way and the not-quite-so-steep way, and we went up the steep way. Everyone charged right up the 10% grade as if it were horizontal, and we made it to Tongva Peak in no time.
The weather was cool and cloudy, which was perfect for hiking but not-so-perfect for views. Since it was socked in, we could not enjoy the usually magnificent vistas of the San Gabriel mountains and the city of LA. You can’t win ‘em all, I suppose. But we could at least enjoy the scenery in the Verdugos themselves.
At the peak, we were rewarded by a colorful summit sign that someone had painted and left at the top. It was crafted with care and one of the better ones I’ve seen. We don’t know who created it, but thank you whoever did. You can check it out in the accompanying photo.
Big thanks to my co-lead, Mary Pickert, for those who turned out and their good cheer and nice conversation. See you on the next one.
