San Gabriels Multi-Peak Hike aka Birthday Hike! aka Aconcagua Training Hike #1

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This year my birthday won't be quite as amazing as last year's edition, when I summited Mt Kilimanjaro. BUT.... it does fall on a Saturday, so I can once again spend it in the mountains, this time with friends. It also is a great time to begin training for my next big climb, Aconcagua, which I'm aiming to take on in January 2015.

For this lofty and fun-filled pursuit, we'll do the following:

• Inspiration Point
• Mt Lowe
• Mt San Gabriel
• Mt Disappointment
• Mt Deception

This is ~18-19 miles and ~6K' elevation gain.

For the very intrepid, who enjoy scrambling and have no fear of poodle dog bush, Mt Markham is an optional add-on peak.

Since this is a birthday hike, come in good spirits - and/or bring some! ;-)

Since this is an Aconcagua training hike, consider joining me in solidarity by carrying a heavier-than-usual pack. While on Aconcagua, I'll be responsible for carrying a 50-lb pack for probably about 10 days, so for the next 2 years I plan on doing at least 1 hike per month with a heavy bag to prepare for this. Since this is my first training hike, I'm starting with a modest 25 lbs. Over time, I'll add weight and probably decrease the distance. Even if Aconcagua is not in your sights, a focus on carrying weight instead of speed can be a fun exercise challenge as well as a way to prepare for backpacking trips. I'll be posting some of those hikes on this Meetup group.

For those inclined to lug a bit more weight, 1 liter of water equals 1kg or 2.2 lbs.

Disclaimers:

• I'm facilitating this hike, not leading it. Please come prepared with the appropriate hiking experience, physical stamina, and gear.

• There's no sweep, though with my heavy/heavier bag, I may be bringing up the rear anyway! ;-)