Speaking Of Mountains
A magical place you might not know about
Last night, I watched the finals of American Idol. America got it right this year; Abi Carter won.
Every year, the three finalists return to their hometowns for a “homecoming celebration.” When Abi Carter visited her hometown, they showed a scene of her saying, “Are we going on the tram?” Then, they cut to a scene that showed her standing on a tram. I immediately thought I’ve been on that tram. It was the Palm Springs Aerial Tram, which takes you to the top of Mount San Jacinto. My wife and I rode it in 2014.
When you ride the tram, you transition from 100-degree heat in the desert to a lush forest and 60 degrees at the top of the mountain. It is quite a dramatic change.
Since I am not a fan of sheer drop-offs or plunging to my death if a cable breaks, the ride was a little nerve-wracking. But since it was enclosed and I couldn’t fall out, I managed to fight off my apprehension and survived the trip. But it isn’t for the faint of heart.
At the top, the view down the mountain is impressive, although you may not consider it particularly beautiful. You look out over Palm Springs, a desert dotted with wind turbines, and brown mountains in the distance.
But if you look in the opposite direction, another world awaits. Mount San Jacinto State Park sits at the top of the mountain, and it is far different from the desert below. A lush forest full of greenery awaits you.
Here are some photos of the park:
If you are ever near Palm Springs, it is worth a visit.
Thanks for reading and responding. You make it fun.
Mark
Your willingness to admit to doing insane things is one of your charms, Mark.
Your pet rock reminded me of the world class collection of skipping stones I once owned. I was the envy of rock collectors the world over.
But I threw it all away.
You say that like it's a bad thing.