2024: West Sespe

Day 1: With our new backpacking gear in hand, we set off to see what the West Sespe had to offer. After a few small stream crossings, we started to make great time. The trail was well-maintained, and there were multiple shady spots where you could take quick breaks. After arriving at one of the first campsites, we saw a group of young adults who asked if we had any bug spray. They said (while shirtless) the bugs were biting them, and they had no way of getting them to stop. We agreed to give them our bug spray, on the condition that we get it back on our way out and that we get a joint from them. Some might say a good deal.



We continued on the trail, which tossed and turned through the streambed, taking us high up and back down in no time. While taking a break, we saw a whole family of deer crossing the river. After arriving at our campsite, we spent some time swimming in the pond. The fish would frequently come up, bite our legs for food, and swim away. When checking out a cool tree that overhung the water, we saw a snake not two feet away from our heads. I'm not sure if I've ever swum that fast.



After making our food, we spent some time searching for frogs and climbing the rocks. There were remenants of campers before, and it was a nice area to explore. Soon, nighttime was upon us, and after a quick doze, I was woken up by my friend to spend time looking at the stars. They were crystal clear and very bright.



Day 2: I woke up the following morning feeling refreshed. After debating whether it was possible to reach one of the highest peaks nearby, we opted to head back. On the way back, I almost stepped on a rattlesnake while hopping over some rocks. He was pretty unhappy with our presence. We collected our repellent from the young adults and made it back to the car in great time. Overall, it was a great trip that helped mentally map the western part of the Sespe. There are some cool spots that I will check out in the future.