We have done quite some hiking on the desert divide and between us where only missing Antsell Rock (“Gem of the desert divide”) and Apache Peak missing.
Jack, John, and I planned to meet at the Zen center in Apple canyon since most ascent reports for Antsell Rock start from there. However, before even getting to the Zen center we were greeted with signs that in no uncertain terms declared that there was no parking at the center or National Forest access beyond the sign. Bummer. This forced us on Spitler trail which added about 6 miles and at least 1000 ft of elevation gain to our day.
We went up Spitler and then on the PCT towards Antsell, saving Apache for the return. Once we reached the gully leading up to Antsell that trip reports had referred too it was clear that we were facing a challenge. Loose gravel, rocks, boulders and dead trees on the steep slope required some very careful climbing. We got over a couple of sketchy spots and eventually arrived at the spot where some class 3 climbing is required. It looked doable for us, but did I mention the wind?
It was windy along the ridge the whole time, but it seemed the wind picked up while we hiked. In some places it was howling so loud we couldn’t even talk to each other. At the climbing stop it was so strong that standing without holding on was not possible. It was also very gusty. No way we would climb on a wall with winds that very well could pick us off that wall. So with just 60-70ft left we decided to call it good. Afterwards Jack commented that they must have meant an unpolished gem when they called this rock “Gem of the desert divide”.
On the way back we went over Apache. I got knocked down by a gust along the way and we all had to watch our timing for steps. If a gust would catch us at the wrong time it would mean a fall. These were some of the strongest winds I have every experienced. After a strenuous day we made it back to the truck.
I had gone out the afternoon before since I wanted to hike Lookout Mountain on this trip. I arrived at the PCT at 4pm and did a quick hike up Lookout mountain meeting just a tiny baby rattler along the way. Afterwards I went to Thomas mountain for camping. Boy was that mountain crowded! I barely found a flat spot to pull the truck off the road for the night. At night I did my first experiment with my phones “astro” mode, got a decent Milky Way shot.
Another great time in the mountains!
Due to the rough conditions (windy, scrambling) we had our hands full and didn’t get around to taking a lot of pics on this one.
(Click on any image to enlarge/start slide show)
Very cool Milky way pic